It all depends on your winter and how unattractive the leaves become. I like to wait for the new growth to emerge. But, if you have problems with black spot and other fungus rots you may wish to trim up in the fall.
Every year and region is different.

Kindly,
Bruce

Like Bruce, I cut orientalis foliage off in the early spring as the new flower buds are coming through. But then we have relatively mild winters and the mound of foliage remains until removed. There is no doubt in my mind that leaving the topgrowth in place allows the plants to continue to grow during any mild winter periods. This is most noticeable with seedlings.

Over winter, the outer leaves will gradually die down to lie on the soil, it is here, especially if they are damaged, that you can pick up fungal infections from the soil.

I normally have a bit of a tidy up in late October, after leaf-fall, at that stage remove any torn or damaged leaves, and certainly any with black spots on them. These leaves should be burnt or disposed of, not composted as they harbour virus and fungal infections. Also remove any leaf litter from round the crown, if you have a very dense clump of leaves, it's worth thinning out a few as this will help the free flow of air round the crowns which helps defend against fungal growth. You can also check newly planted plants are securely planted and haven't rocked loose in the wind.

The rest of the leaves are left to protect the crown of the plant through the winter, fallen leaves and twigs etc get deflected and they provide a bit of wintergreen foliage.

When you see new buds at about 2", that's a good time to remove the rest of the last seasons foliage and give the plants a mulch at the same time, spent mushroom compost is best(alkaline) but leaf-mould or any weed free, non peat based mulch from a garden centre will do.

Cheers Greenmanplants

Thanks so much. I'm keeping these posts and will follow your instructions. I'm really looking forward to seeing how these plants do!

Hi Kirsten,

Two more thoughts on cutting back the foliage. Use a very sharp clippers - the foliage is tough and yanking is definately not the way to go. Also, some folks eperience a rash after handling the leaves. You may want to wear gloves to protect your skin.

Our winters here are mild, and I don't see much leaf damage. The flowers are much easier to see and enjoy if I cut back at least the largest leaves when the first flowers are peaking out.

Enjoy - hellebores are so lovely!

Laura

Hi..
I usually cut the old when the new growth shows it self just abow ground.. Here in Sweden (South) jan or Feb...

Here is a link that might be useful: www.sandersson.com