A gardening expert has revealed a banana peel hack to nourish hellebores and help them thrive throughout the winter. Hellebores, often called the “Christmas rose”, are a winter garden favourite thanks to their ability to bloom in the coldest months. But to keep these hardy perennials looking their best, a surprising trick involving fruity scraps could make all the difference.
According to Elise Harlock, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, banana peels are a natural way to boost hellebores and help them thrive throughout winter. “Banana peels are rich in potassium and phosphorus, which are essential nutrients for strong root growth and vibrant blooms,” she said. “Banana peels are not only effective but also a sustainable way to repurpose kitchen waste,” she added.
Elise says incorporating banana peels into your hellebore care routine is simple:
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Chop and bury: Cut the banana peel into small pieces and bury them around the base of the plant. This allows the nutrients to slowly release into the soil as the peel decomposes.
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Blend and water: Blend banana peels with water to create a nutrient-rich liquid fertiliser. “This method is great for giving an immediate nutrient boost,” Elise said.
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Compost: Add banana peels to your compost bin. The resulting compost will enrich the soil when spread around your hellebores.
“Mulching the base of your hellebores with organic matter, like leaf mould or bark chips, is essential for keeping hellebores healthy,” Elise explained. “It protects the roots from frost and helps the soil retain moisture, which is crucial in winter.”
Elise recommends deadheading to maintain a neat appearance and encourage new blooms. “Regularly remove spent flowers,” she said. “This promotes fresh growth and reduces the chance of fungal infections.”
Choosing the right location is another critical factor for thriving hellebores. “Although they bloom in winter, hellebores don’t do well in direct sunlight,” Elise explained. “Plant them in partial shade with well-draining soil to give them the best environment.”
Watering is another key consideration. “Even though hellebores are hardy, they still need consistent moisture during dry spells,” she added. “Water them deeply when needed, but avoid letting them sit in waterlogged soil, as that can harm their roots.”
Elise added: “It’s amazing how small, natural tricks can have such a big impact. With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of hellebores all season long.”