Growing Tips: Hostas

OVERVIEW

Hostas are hardy, shade loving plants grown for their dramatic foliage and shade tolerance. These Asian natives have over 7,000 cultivars, a mark of its popularity.

SITE SELECTION

While hostas are shade lovers, they do best with a few hours of morning sunshine or under dappled sunlight, though different varieties have different light requirements. Part shade with protection from afternoon sun is your best bet for a happy, healthy plant.

They prefer rich, well drained soil with plenty of organic matter.

PLANTING

• Loosen the soil in the planting area and work in compost. Hostas prefer rich, well-draining soil high in organic matter.
• Dig a hole two times the width and depth of the root ball and make sure roots are gently flared with the top of the root ball level with the soil line. Water in well.

SPRING/SUMMER CARE

• Afternoon shade is critical in hot areas. If the edges of your hostas leaves are browning and curling, they are getting too much sun and the leaves are burning.
• Do not allow plants to dry out; they are not drought tolerant.
• Add a balanced, slow release fertilizer in the spring.

FALL/WINTER CARE

• Plants will die back in the fall as temperatures drop. Trim any dead or damaged leaves and clean up any debris. Leaf litter can invite slugs, a common pest for hostas.

OTHER CARE TIPS

• Rapid growers. Can be divided every 3 - 4 years. When dividing, dig up in spring before they begin to put on new growth. Larger plants have tough root systems that may require heavier equipment than simple garden shears to divide.
• Deer LOVE hostas! If you have deer in your area, consider planting in pots closer to the house or on elevated porches and patios. 
• Slugs and snails also love hostas. While the damage may be unsightly at times, they will rarely do enough damage to harm the plants. Use slug bait or home remedies to keep pest away. Some varieties, like Wheee! or Wu-La-La are more slug resistant.

SOURCES

Proven Winners Growing Guide