What could be eating my Hellebore?

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by silexa, Apr 17, 2025.

  1. silexa

    silexa Gardener

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    Good Morning all,

    Two of our lovely Hellbores are being visciously attacked by something, and we're not sure what.
    Whatever it is is eating whole flowers, but doesnt seem too interested in leaves (we have other younger hellebores nearby which havent flowered and theyre all fine).
    We suspect its mice, but what are your thoughts? We've always found Hellebores are not something animals go for, so you can imagine our shock to find these well munched!
     
  2. CarolineL

    CarolineL Total Gardener

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    Sorry @silexa I can't see where you say the flowers have been eaten. Your plants look pretty good to me! At this time of year they should be going to seed, so I wonder if your culprit is eating seed heads?
     
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    • silexa

      silexa Gardener

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      Sorry, they were quick photos taken this morning!
      I hope its just the seed heads...
       
    • NigelJ

      NigelJ Total Gardener

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      A photo of a the interior of a couple of flowers might help.
      On the photos supplied I cannot see any damage.
      Mine have pretty much all gone to seed now so I will be deadheading them soon.
       
    • Philippa

      Philippa Gardener

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      Mine are still in flower but not for much longer. As said above, I can't see any actual damage to the flower heads other than timely fading as they come to their end.
       
    • silexa

      silexa Gardener

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      So after a further investigation following your replies, I've decided that whatever was eating them was definitely just after the seed heads. Ive cut back the seed heads as much as possible to stop anything munching them. I have loved these hellebores this year and cant wait to see them back again soon!
       
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      • NigelJ

        NigelJ Total Gardener

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        I sometimes leave the seedheads on too long and as a result the gravel path has a load of seedlings on it.
         
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