Hosta plants were once seen as boring and often removed from gardens. However, today they are loved for their beauty and low maintenance. This guide will help you learn how to easily grow hosta, including how to take care of it and the surprising fact that some parts of the plant are edible!
Hosta, also known as Plantain Lily, is a plant that thrives in shady areas. It is famous for its lush, leafy appearance and is very easy to care for.
Hostas come in various colours, shapes, and sizes, with some varieties even producing beautiful flowers that smell nice. This plant can grow well in many different climates, specifically in zones 3 to 9.
One of the most appealing aspects of hosta is its visual beauty. It can add a splash of colour to your garden with its diverse leaf patterns and colours, which include shades of blue, green, gold, white, and even red. The leaves can vary in size, from giant to tiny, and can take on different shapes, such as heart-shaped or flat.
Another great benefit of hosta is that it is very low maintenance. Once planted, it doesn’t require much attention. Hosta grows well in shaded areas and needs less weeding compared to sun loving plants. This makes it a perfect choice for busy gardeners who want beautiful plants without the hassle.
While it can tolerate some sunlight, most hostas do best with about 3-6 hours of morning sun. We planted ours around a tree, where there is morning sun and they are doing really well! Possibly consider growing this plant in areas where other plants might struggle to grow.
We also like that their thick leaves and strong roots help prevent soil erosion, and they attract helpful wildlife, which creates a more balanced and sustainable garden ecosystem.
How to grow – step by step:
When it comes to planting hosta, timing and location are important. The best time to plant hosta is in the spring or late summer. Spring is ideal because the ground is warm, and the plants are beginning to grow.
If you choose to plant in late summer, make sure you do it at least six weeks before the first frost hits.
Hostas prefer soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should also drain well and be rich in organic material. Mixing in two to three inches of compost will help them grow even better.
To plant hosta, start by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough for the roots. If you have bare-root hostas, soak the roots in water for about an hour before you plant them.
When placing the hosta in the hole, make sure the top part, called the crown, is level with the ground. After that, fill the hole back with soil and gently press it down. Don’t forget to water the plant thoroughly after planting.
Once your hostas are in the ground, ongoing care is essential. You should water them deeply once a week to keep the soil moist.
Adding a 3 inch layer of mulch around the plants will help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay. In early spring, you can fertilize them with a slow release fertilizer to give them a boost. However, we choose not to do anything and they still thrive!
In the fall, remember to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and cover the plants with mulch after the first frost to protect them during the winter.Â
Did you know it’s edible?
One of the most surprising things about hosta is that it is edible! You can eat several parts of the plant, including the young shoots and leaves, which taste similar to asparagus and lettuce. The flowers and flower buds are also edible!
Hostas are surprisingly nutritious, containing important minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. They even have higher zinc content than many other fresh vegetables, along with various other beneficial nutrients.
While hostas are generally safe to eat, there are some safety tips to keep in mind. Avoid eating the roots and unripe seeds, as they can be toxic. Also, make sure the plants haven’t been treated with harmful chemicals or pesticides.
Common problems
Like any plant, hostas can face some challenges. One common issue is yellowing leaves, which can happen due to overwatering or poor drainage. To solve this, ensure your soil drains well and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Another issue is brown or crispy leaves, which can occur from under watering or too much sun. To fix this, keep the soil consistently moist and provide enough shade for your hostas.
Pests can also be a problem, with slugs and snails being the most common pests that affect hostas. You can control them by using slug and snail baits or traps. Natural deterrents like crushed eggshells can also help. Make sure to check your plants regularly and remove any pests by hand.
Best hostas varieties for shady areas
If you are looking for hostas that do well in the shade, there are several great varieties to choose from.
Frances Williams features large blue green leaves, while Great Expectations is known for its large green leaves with blue edges. Blue Mouse Ears is a compact variety with small, round, gray blue leaves, and Sum and Substance boasts enormous lime green leaves.
Hostas have transformed from unwanted plants to cherished additions in many gardens. Their beauty, low maintenance requirements, shade tolerance, and edible properties make them versatile plants that can suit a variety of gardening needs.
Whether you want to fill a dark corner of your garden or try out some edible landscaping, hostas are a fantastic choice. These wonderful plants can bring joy and beauty to your garden for many years to come.
Happy gardening! 💚
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