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Hosta plant care
The genus Hosta originally comes from China and Japan. Hostas like shady, moist, organic soil, but many can tolerate and thrive in other conditions. If treated with a little care (more in the south and west), they will easily outlive those that plant them.
Grown mainly for the ornamental effect of their foliage, hostas become more impressive year by year as they gain in size and beauty. As clumps mature, margins on variegated varieties often become more pronounced; puckering become more prominent; and leaf color may become more intense.
Choices abound in size and shape, leaf patterns, color, texture, substance and flowers, as there are thousands of registered cultivars of hosta. Large hostas may measure 4 feet in height and 5 feet in width, while the smallest miniatures is only a few inches across, and most hostas ranging between 1 and 3 feet tall. Hosta leaves may be rounded to oval, heart-shaped or lance-like. The leaf may be flat, have a wavy edge or a puckered texture. Hosta flowers are produced from early summer to fall depending on the species and cultivar. Flowers may be white, lavender or purple. A few hostas are fragrant.
Hostas often grow bigger in the North than in the South, given the same conditions.
Blue-leaved hostas may be bluer in the North.
Some variegated varieties and yellow or gold-leaved hostas need some sun to fully develop their color.
Yellow-leaved hostas often appear more yellow in the South.
Yellow hosta can brighten up a location, if it is not too shady.
Green and blue hostas may lose some of their color intensity with too much sun.
Sunlight is necessary to encourage flowering.
Morning sun with some early afternoon sun (5 to 6 hours total) benefits fragrant hostas.
Morning sun is preferred over afternoon sun.
Morning sun and mid-day shade is the ideal condition for most varieties. An often recommended general guide is a minimum of 25% shade in northern regions and 50% in southern regions, depending on the variety. And, do not forget hostas growing in more sun will require more water, an inch or more of water per week if not supplied by rains. Did you know blue hostas are not really blue? The leaves are green with a wax coating on their surface. This wax is produced when new leaves are emerging. Over a season the wax can melt off in the heat, especially in the South. The coating may also wash off in heavy rains or with frequent overhead watering. They will be the bluest in the spring and may gradually lose the blue color, possibly turning to green by fall. The color tends to be bluer and last longer in cooler climates or areas.
Variegated leaves may include a combination of lighter and darker shades of color. Medio variegated leaves show a light color in the center of the leaf, which may be white, gold, yellow, or light green. Marginally variegated leaves show a light color on the edge of the leaf. Some plants naturally experience seasonal color changes. A plant might change from variegated to all green leaves during the season, or from green to yellow, or turn from yellow to white.
Shearing the leaves is a technique used to increase eye/shoot and root production. In northern climates, hostas should be sheared before August to allow new shoots time to mature before first frost.
If potting hostas, we recommend using a nursery-type mix rather than peat-vermiculite types. For example: 60 to 70% compost bark, 20% peat, and 10 to 20%perlite ( or coarse sand). Optimum pH is 6.0 to 6.5 and soluble salts should be low. When preparing a new garden or working an old one, if composted material is not available, this example mix can be used to amend the soil.
Hostas are heavy feeders and require a complete fertilizer program to attain the most spectacular foliage. We use 14-14-14 slow release fertilizer as a top dressing and water soluble fertilizers up to 30-30-30 N-P-K (Nitrogen for foliage, Phosphorus for roots, Potassium for structure and flowering). In early spring after the first growth starts, apply a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid excessive fertilizer, especially in the summer. Do not fertilize at least two months prior to first anticipated frost. Addition of compost over the bed in the fall, can reduce next year's fertilizer requirements.
Slugs and snails are the primary hosta pests. Occasional pests include aphids, thrips, voles and mites. Watering hostas in the morning (versus the evening) decreases pest and disease opportunities. Remove hosta leaves and clean up around the plants after they have died back to help control diseases, voles and slugs. Leaves that are thick and stiff are said to have "heavy substance"; such leaves are considered to be somewhat resistant to slug feeding. While there are a number of commercial and home remedies for slugs and snails, we have found that a 15% ammonia and 85% water mixture deters the critters, as well as deer. Increase the ammonia percentage if deer are the culprits.
Hosta Diseases and Pests
Hostas are easily increased by division of the clump in early spring. Hostas can be grown from seed, but as the male parent is often unknown, the resulting seedling is always an unknown. Just like children, new hostas will be a mix of DNA, that may or may not resemble the parents. Vegetative propagation is always advised for true matching offspring of the parent.
Patented Plants will have a patent number on the label or indicator that a patent has been applied for. Patented plants may not be propagated in any way, shape or form without the owner's permission or until the patent term has expired.
Companion plants enhance the appearance hostas. Early blooming bulbs and perennials will enhance emerging hosta leaves. Spring bulb foliage can be hidden after blooming by the larger hosta leaves. Recommended companions include astilbes, heuchera, snowdrops, crocus, tulips, daffodils, trillium, anemones, forget-me-nots, ferns, hellebores, pulmonarias, and wild gingers. In summer months, bright annuals such as impatiens, begonia, and coleus make attractive companion plants.
The hosta descriptions used on this site are generally noted per their registration with the American Hosta Society. Your hostas appearance may differ based on climate and conditions. We have also added some of our own comments and experiences.
Hostas are a beloved choice for gardeners across the United States, admired for their shade tolerance, diverse array of colors and textures, and their remarkably low-maintenance nature. While generally hardy and adaptable, understanding the specific needs of hostas in different hardiness zones can help ensure their healthy growth and longevity. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about growing hostas in each of the US hardiness zones.
Understanding Hardiness Zones
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map divides North America into 13 zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures. Each zone represents a 10-degree Fahrenheit difference. This map is an invaluable tool for gardeners, guiding them in selecting plants that can survive in their local climate. Hostas generally thrive in zones 3-9, but specific needs and considerations vary within this range. It is important to note that hostas, like many perennials, need a period of cold temperatures to go dormant . This is why they generally do not thrive in warmer zones with mild winters.
Propagating Hostas
Gardeners looking to expand their hosta collection have several propagation methods at their disposal: division, tissue culture, and seeds . Division is the most common and straightforward method, involving separating a mature hosta clump into smaller sections. Tissue culture is a more specialized technique used to produce large numbers of identical plants. While propagation by seed is possible, it is less common because hostas do not always grow true to seed, meaning the resulting plants may not have the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Pests and Diseases
While hostas are relatively low-maintenance plants, they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Root nematodes, microscopic roundworms that live in the soil, can cause galls to form on the roots, weakening the plant and potentially vectoring diseases . Anthracnose, a fungal leaf spot disease, can cause damage to the foliage, appearing as randomly spaced round or irregular spots that can be whitish, tan, grey, or brown in color with a dark border.
Effective management strategies for these issues often involve an integrated approach. For anthracnose, this includes cultural practices like regular irrigation early in the day, keeping plants cool, and removing infected leaves. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure . For root nematodes, prevention is key, including buying disease-free plants and practicing good garden hygiene.
Growing Hostas in Different Zones
Zone 1
Zone 1, with its extremely cold winters where temperatures can plummet to -50°F or lower, presents the most challenging conditions for growing hostas. Most hostas are not reliably hardy in this zone due to the extreme cold . However, some gardeners have reported success with varieties like 'Guacamole', which is known for its hardiness and adaptability.
If you are determined to grow hostas in zone 1, it is crucial to provide extra winter protection. This might involve a thick layer of mulch, or even moving potted hostas to a sheltered location like an unheated garage or shed . Early spring planting is recommended as soon as the ground is workable.
Zone 2
Zone 2, with minimum temperatures ranging from -50°F to -40°F, also requires careful consideration for growing hostas. Similar to zone 1, providing winter protection is essential. Consider varieties known for their hardiness, such as 'Guacamole' , and ensure they are planted in well-drained soil with adequate moisture.
For overwintering, protect container-grown hostas by placing them in an unheated shed or garage, or by burying the entire pot in the ground and mulching heavily . Plant hostas in early spring or early fall as soon as the summer heat breaks.
Zone 3
Hostas are well-suited for zone 3, where winter temperatures range from -40°F to -30°F. Many varieties thrive in this zone, including 'Orange Marmalade', 'Aureomarginata', and 'Whirlwind' . In Zone 3, consider varieties like 'Patriot' and 'Halcyon'.
While generally hardy, providing a layer of mulch for winter protection is still recommended . Plant hostas in early spring, after the last frost.
Zone 4
Zone 4, with minimum temperatures between -30°F and -20°F, offers favorable conditions for a wide range of hostas. Nearly any variety can thrive in this zone, but light-colored hostas may be more susceptible to damage by frost . Consider varieties like 'Big Mama', 'Titanic', and 'Blue Mouse Ears' . Some excellent choices for Zone 4 include 'Lakeside Shore Master', 'Blue Mouse Ears', and 'Banana Puddin'.
For overwintering, protect container-grown hostas by placing them in an unheated shed or garage, or by burying the entire pot in the ground and mulching heavily . Plant hostas in early spring or early fall.
Zone 5
Zone 5, with minimum temperatures ranging from -20°F to -10°F, is ideal for most hostas. They require a dormancy period of cold, wet weather for at least 30 days at temperatures below 43°F . Cold damage can occur at 28°F or colder, and heat damage can occur above 95°F . Popular choices for this zone include 'Smoke Signals', 'Halcyon', and 'Tears in Heaven' . Other good options for Zone 5 include 'Blue Ivory' and 'June'.
Overwintering hostas in pots can be tricky in Zone 5. Ensure good drainage and consider burying the pots in the ground or placing them on their sides to prevent waterlogging and freezing . Plant hostas in early spring or early fall.
Zone 6
Hostas thrive in zone 6, where winter temperatures range from -10°F to 0°F. They need cold temperatures in winter to go dormant . Consider varieties like 'Chelone', 'Hellebore', and 'Pulmonaria' . Some other excellent choices for Zone 6 include 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd', 'Patriot', and 'First Frost'.
In Zone 6, the best time to plant hostas in the spring is after the last frost, around mid-April . For fall planting, aim for early fall, giving the plants time to settle in before winter.
Zone 7
Zone 7, with minimum temperatures between 0°F and 10°F, is suitable for many hostas. They can tolerate temperatures down to -40°F . The rule of thumb is that you can keep things in containers as long as they are hardy down to two zones lower than your own . So, if you are in zone 7, the plant must be hardy to zone 5. Most hostas are hardy to zone 3. Popular choices for this zone include 'Guacamole', 'Patriot', and 'Paul's Glory'.
Spring is the best time to plant hostas in Zone 7, but summer is fine too if you water regularly.
Zone 8
Zone 8, with minimum temperatures ranging from 10°F to 20°F, allows for the cultivation of various hostas. However, it is essential to choose varieties that can tolerate warmer temperatures . Consider varieties like 'Patriot', 'Frances Williams', and 'Daybreak'.
For winter survival, storing hostas in pots, place the potted plants wrapped in bubble wrap or newspapers between a larger pot to help insulate the roots from freezing . Plant your hostas when the soil is workable and not frozen.
Zone 9
Zone 9, with minimum temperatures between 20°F and 30°F, presents some challenges for hostas due to warmer winters. Select varieties with lower chill requirements, such as those with Hosta plantaginea in their parentage . Consider varieties like 'American Sweetheart', 'Fragrant Bouquet', and 'Emerald Tiara'.
Spring is the best time to plant hostas, but summer is fine too if you water regularly.
Zone 10
Growing hostas in zone 10, with minimum temperatures between 30°F and 40°F, requires careful selection and attention to their needs. Choose varieties with low chill requirements and provide ample shade and moisture . Consider varieties like 'SunHosta' and 'Halcyon'.
The best time to plant Hostas is in early spring or early fall.
Planting and Care
Ideal Planting Times
The ideal planting time for hostas varies depending on the hardiness zone. In general, early spring or early fall is recommended . Fall planting is best done at least 30 days before the first frost to allow for root establishment.
Soil and Water Requirements
Hostas prefer moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 . Amend clay soil with compost to improve drainage . Water regularly, especially during the first growing season, providing at least one inch of water per week. Avoid overhead watering, as this can damage the leaves and promote fungal diseases . Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots.
Overwintering Hostas
While hostas are generally hardy, they benefit from winter protection, especially in colder zones. Mulching helps to insulate the roots and prevent frost heave . In zone 3, an extra layer of mulch over the crown is beneficial . For potted hostas, consider moving them to a sheltered location or sinking them into the ground.
Conclusion
Hostas are versatile and resilient plants that can thrive in a variety of hardiness zones across the United States. By understanding their specific needs in different climates and providing appropriate care, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and elegance of these shade-loving perennials for years to come. Remember that different hosta varieties have different sun tolerances. Blue-leaved varieties thrive in deep shade, while yellow and gold-leaved types can tolerate more sun . The more moisture available to the plant, the more sun it can tolerate.
When selecting hostas, especially in warmer zones (9 and 10), it is crucial to choose varieties with low chill requirements to ensure they go dormant properly during the winter . Finally, be aware that hostas are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses . By considering these factors and following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a thriving hosta garden that will bring you years of enjoyment.