Hosta
Hosta spp.
The ultimate shade garden perennial with bold, textured foliage.
Care Instructions
Water deeply once or twice a week. Hostas are thirsty plants — dry soil causes brown leaf edges. Mulch 3 inches deep to retain moisture. Morning watering is best.
Full shade to part shade (0–4 hours of sun). Blue and white varieties prefer more shade; yellow/gold varieties tolerate more sun. Morning sun only if needed.
Rich, moist, well-drained soil with pH 6.0–7.0. Amend with 3–4 inches of compost at planting. Fertilize once in spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Seasonal Guide
Best Planting Time
Spring when emerging from dormancy, or early fall (6 weeks before frost) for root establishment. Divide in spring or fall every 3–5 years.
Bloom / Growth Season
Foliage emerges April–May and expands through summer. Lavender or white flower stalks appear July–August — cut off spent stalks to keep tidy.
Dormancy
Completely disappear below ground after frost. Mark their location to avoid accidentally digging them up. Re-emerge reliably each spring.
Common Problems & Solutions
Slug and snail damage (ragged holes in leaves)
Apply iron phosphate bait (Sluggo — safe for pets and wildlife). Set out beer traps. Remove mulch from direct contact with crowns.
Hosta virus X (distorted, mottled leaves)
No cure. Remove and destroy infected plants. Do not divide infected plants — the virus spreads on tools. Sterilize tools between plants.
Brown leaf edges (scorch)
Increase watering frequency. Move to deeper shade. Add mulch to retain moisture. Brown edges are cosmetic — trim with scissors.
Plant Details
USDA Zones
3a, 3b, 4a, 4b +7
Maintenance
low
Mature Height
1-4 ft
Native Regions
Japan, China, Korea
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