Culture & Care for Hostas

All other differences in cultivars noted below

Hardiness    Zones 3-8

Light           Part shade to full shade, full sun if consistently moist and protected

Moisture      Average to moist

Soil             Well-drained, acidic to neutral

 

Hostas are still one of the most reliable and easy to grow perennials for a shade garden. They are adaptable to most average garden soils of adequate fertility, require almost no-maintenance and if the cultivar is chosen appropriately for the space, can grow for decades without division. We choose varieties that fill in quickly, as smaller, newer selections are known to be slow-growing specimens; we still want these to smother weeds. Our larger selections fill in landscape designs quickly for low cost, or can be used as a focal point in small urban spaces. 

 

Recommendations for growing Hostas

Hostas will adapt to most soils if compost is added, but do best on soil near average to moist, slightly acidic well-drained loam. Water well after planting and during first year of establishment. They do not adapt well to drought or hot, windy locations, so on-going irrigation may be needed to keep leaves lush on these sites. 1-2" of composted bark mulch is always a good idea for hostas and their shade-loving companions to conserve moisture. Low maintenance once established. If desired to rejuvenate, division is easily done in early spring or late fall. For superior slug resistance, we recommend corrugated-leaved varieties; if slugs are not a problem, these all perform well.