By Sharon Dent
Many homeowners in the area have shade or partial-shade yards. Hostas and other shade loving plants do well in the Hot Springs area in zones 7-8. One 18-inch-tall ornamental plant that is particularly happy here is Hellebore and a species called Lenten Rose. What’s not to like. It is evergreen, blooming in either early winter or late winter-early spring. The bloom period is unusually long —at least a month with the flowers staying on the plant for 3-4 months. They are resistant to deer and voles.
Hellebores like evenly moist soil with a neutral pH. They can be a little slow to establish, but need little attention after their 3rd year. A little lime can correct acid soil returning the pH to 6-7.
These plants also appreciate a light application of granular fertilizer or side-dressing of compost in early spring. Prune back damaged foliage in early spring making sure not to snip off emerging growth.
This easy evergreen or herbaceous plant has 20 species, and can have white, yellow, pink, soft green, red or purple flowers. Due to recent hybridizing activity, the plants now are available with single, double and anemone-centered flowers. Hellebores enliven woodland gardens along pathways, under trees and in clumps taking center stage.
The Garland County Extension Office at 236 Woodbine, in Hot Springs, will do a soil test for you free of charge to establish the pH level of your soil.
Advanced Garland County Master Gardener, Sharon Dent, volunteers with GC Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more info, call 501-623-6841 or email adykes@uaex.edu. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action institution.
