Winter Rose

(Helleborus spp)

Introduction

Helleborus is a perennial plant that flowers in winter. It is tough and does well in cooler climates as it is frost-hardy. It is especially suited to Southland. Over the past few years much breeding work has been done on Hellebores in an effort to produce flowers on longer stems. There is now also a wider range of colours (red, white, green, pink, cream), with flowers that face outwards rather than downwards.

Several New Zealand flower exporters see a bright future for Hellebores. They flower at a time when many flowers are in short supply, i.e. mid-winter/very early spring. Some export potential also exists but remember, mid winter for NZ is high season for Northern Hemisphere producers. Hellebores like a fertile humus rich soil that is well drained. Shelter from strong winds is essential and all day direct sunlight is an advantage. The main insect pests on Hellebores are Aphids and Snails. Both of these are easily controlled. Post-harvest treatments have caused some problems. When the stem is cut, air is taken up by the stems and the flower heads collapse. Various treatments have been tried to prevent this, with mixed results.

Growing Winter Rose

Propagation:	Plants can be obtained by growing from seed but expect genetic variation. Division is the only way to ensure plants are true to type.
Full production:	Plants should be producing good quantities of flowers by Year 3
Time of flowering:	Winter through to early Spring
Soil type:	Seems to grow in most conditions. pH 6–7
Fertilisers:	Likes a fertile humus rich soil with good drainage. Yearly applications of an NPK fertiliser based on soil test results.
Pest/Diseases:	Powdery mildews can affect the plant. Also watch for slugs and aphids. All of these are easily controlled.
Harvesting:	Harvesting during the cooler parts of the day is recommended. Heads are cut when the stamens have dropped from the first flowers that opened. The following post-harvest treatment is strongly recomended: Pick stems directly into a bucket out in the field containing Hydraboost (7ml/L) In the packing house transfer to a bucket containing Silgard (4ml/L) and Rogard (10ml/L) and Silver Booster (4ml/L). Leave for at least 24 hours in the chiller before packing. These chemicals are available from Evergreen Horticulture in Christchurch (0800 383 747)
Marketing:	There is an emerging export market for Helleborus. However, our production period coincides with peak flower production of Northern Hemisphere countries. Check with your exporter before commercial plantings. Local market demand also exists.
Further Info:	Ted Downing, Greenharvest Pacific (0800 447 864)