Planting Hellebore Under the Holly

Find a hellebore variety that is hardy in your climate. Hellebore varieties range from USDA growing zones 4 through 9. If you live in a colder climate, try Pink Lady, which is hardy to zone 4. In hot climates, try HGC Cinnamon Snow, which is hardy to zone 9.

Remove any existing grass from the planting area using a pitchfork. Dig up the grass by pushing the pitchfork into the ground, only going deep enough to scoop under the roots. Lift the grass up, shake it off to leave the soil behind, and dispose of it.

Amend the planting area with rotted leaves and compost to add nutrients to the soil. An ideal soil feels like a wrung-out sponge when it's squeezed.

Dig a hole for the hellebore large enough to encompass the plant's root ball.

Set the plant in the hole, and fill in the space around it with soil and compost. Pack it down lightly.

Plant any remaining hellebore 1 foot apart. Hellebore will propagate itself as it matures, so do not overplant.

Mulch the area with leaves and compost after planting to conserve moisture and keep weeds at bay. Repeat the mulching in the spring and fall until the hellebore is established. After that, the leaves from the holly will help mulch the hellebore.

Water the hellebore after planting. It prefers dry feet to soggy ground, so water it only as needed. This depends on the climate, but allow it to dry out between waterings.