Christmas roses are considered evergreen. But they also have to replace the leaves regularly. So far so good, and nothing particularly worrying. But brown leaves can occasionally have another cause. In such a case, waiting is the worst possible reaction.
Why does a Christmas rose get brown leaves?
Every year, immediately before the flowers emerge, the leaves of the Christmas rosedue to ageturn brown and dry out. New leaves will follow as soon as the plant has faded. Apart from that, brown leaves can also be caused bysunshine,wetnessordisease.
How much sun can the Christmas rose tolerate?
Christmas roses (Helleborus niger) usually require apartially shaded or shady location. Ideally, you will find it under deciduous trees or smaller shrubs. Since most owners know about this preference, they are almost always placed correctly. But from autumn to spring the shade providers are not available because they have shed their leaves. If the sun shines more intensely than usual, as can happen in some years, this quickly leads to brown leaves.
What should I do with brown foliage before flowering?
Around November or December, shortly before the flowering period, the old foliage turns brown and dries up. It is allowed to remain on the plant, fall off on its own and rot in place. But there are three reasons for cutting.
- Flowers are more visible
- new leaves can sprout unhindered in spring
- Fungal diseases are prevented (old leaves are susceptible)
When does the problem with wetness occur?
In the garden, waterlogging is usually not a problem for the Christmas rose. Since it is planted in permeable soil, rainwater can usually drain away easily. Christmas roses in pots are more likely to suffer from moisture, as many plant lovers unfortunately tend totoo generouslytowatering
What disease is responsible for brown leaves?
The most common isblack spot disease(Coniothyrium hellebori). At first, the leaves of the affected perennial “only” show black spots, often starting from the edge of the leaf. As the disease progresses, the leaves die off completely. You should immediatelycut off infected plant parts and dispose of them. Don't put them in the compost! Since this fungal disease is favored by a very moist location and a pH value that is too low, you should consider transplanting or applying garden lime.
Tip
Always touch the Christmas rose with gloves
The Christmas rose, like all plants in the buttercup family, is poisonous. Their plant sap can cause serious skin inflammation in people. Be sure to wear protective disposable gloves when caring for them and dispose of them after you have finished working. Thoroughly clean any cutting tools you use.
