If you are looking for a perennial plant that loves shade and still flowers and comes in many varieties, then hostas could be for you.
Hosta is a genus of plants that are generally known as hostas, plantain lilies, and gibshi in Japanese, where shade-tolerant foliage plants, such as Hostas, are extensively grown. The genus is native to northeast Asia and belongs to the Asparagaceae family, subfamily Agavoideae.
In this article, we will discuss the planting, growth, care, and flowering period of this plant. Also, we will talk about some types of hostas that are best to grow. So, let’s get started.
Requirements to Grow Hostas
Hostas should be grown in nutrient-rich, moisture-retentive, porous soil with a pH of 6-7. They appreciate a marked or partial shade. In general, all hostas require sunlight to thrive. Green and variegated hostas thrive in a little darker shade, however yellow and gold hostas require more light to show off their vibrant hues. If provided adequate regular water, those with more robust leaves can endure full sun in cooler zones.
Flowering Period
The blooming period of the hostas is short apparently. They bloom for about three weeks between May and September. Typically, they are grown for their leaves but if you want to enjoy their colorful flowers, you have to plant them in spring.
When to Plant Hostas?
You can plant hostas throughout the year, but spring and autumn are best. It’s best not to plant hostas in mid-summer when the temperature is high and the water table is low, because this may prevent them from establishing well. Mid-winter is also a bad time to plant hostas because the ground is usually frozen.
How To Propagate Hostas?
Hostas can be propagated by two methods: by seeds and by division. Let’s take a look at both methods.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of the ground in an area where they can get light, and keep them moist. Cover them with a small amount of soil. Hostas require about 7-20 days to germinate.
- On the other hand, without having to acquire extra hosta plants, the division is the simplest and quickest way to grow your collection. Hostas have a clumping root structure, so just cut through the clump with a knife from the crown down to divide a plant. Garden tools can also be used to pry apart the root clump, but this will not provide as much precision. Cutting through the roots is acceptable because the roots of hostas recover quickly once transplanted.
Pests and Diseases
Fungal diseases such as brown spots, leaf spots, and stem rot are common to hostas. The best way to avoid these diseases is to keep your plants well-watered and keep them healthy. In addition, you can use the appropriate fungicide to keep the disease away.
In addition, hosta virus X causes yellowing and may lead to the death of leaves. You can avoid the spread of the virus by destroying the infected leaves. In case of a serious issue, you can consult your local gardening center for more information.
Hostas in Winter Season
Hostas are a hardy perennial that thrives in zones 3 through 9. This plant can withstand cold weather, but it will require some adjustments to prepare for the change in season. In the dormant phase, it takes advantage of cold temperatures.
The leaves of hostas must dry up and wilt to the ground before they may be prepared for winter. While this is going on, the plant is preparing nourishment for the following season’s development. Do not cut it back until the operation is finished.
Cut the plant to the ground once the foliage has withered. A small layer of mulch around the roots will help protect them from temperature changes.
Best Hostas To Grow
1. Hosta ‘Frosted Mouse Ears’
It has blue-green leaves and purple flowers. This plant can grow up to 20 cm tall and spread about 35 cm. Hosta ‘Frosted Mouse Ears’ is best for shady gardens because it prefers all dappled, partial, and full shades of the sun. The blooming period is between June and July.
2. Hosta ‘Kikutii’
Hosta Kikutii is also known as plantain lily. It produces green narrow leaves and its flowers are purple. The flowering period is between June and October. Hosta Kikutii grows up to 40 cm in height and the spread is around 60 cm. This plant is popular for its low maintenance and easy-to-care feature.
3. Love Pat Hosta
It has thick and broad foliage with eye-catching smokey blue color. This plant is 60 cm in height and 60 cm wide. Like all other hostas, it is very easy to care for and grow. It blooms between July and August. Overall, it can enhance the attractive look of your garden with its unique appearance.
4. Revolution Hosta
The foliage of the Revolution hosta is broad and pointed. The deep-green leaves are variegated with a cream-colored center flare, creating a striking contrast in shaded places. Summer is when the lilac-mauve blossoms bloom. Its height is 50 cm.
5. Frances Williams Hosta
The Frances Williams hosta grows 80 cm tall and spreads 127 cm. It is best grown in well-drained soil and appreciates partial to full shade. It owns white flowers that bloom from June to July.
Final Thoughts
Overall, hostas are the perfect plant for your garden because they are easy to grow and maintain. They are also attractive to look at and are great for any type of garden. They will also thrive in containers, hanging baskets, and hanging planters.
We have provided all the instructions regarding the planting and growing of the hostas plant. In addition, we mentioned some of the best types that can help you select the suitable one for your garden.
We hope that this guide will help you get started and you will get the best results from the information we provided. If you have any questions, you can ask us, we will be happy to help you out with your confusion.