The hosta plant (Plantain lilies) is a perennial shade-loving plant known for its waxy, multicolored foliage. It comes in many sizes, patterns, and colors, and can adapt to different growing conditions, which makes it a popular choice for many gardeners. If you want to learn how to grow and care for hostas, continue reading this guide.
Hosta plant care
Preparing Hosta Seeds for Planting
Here is how to prepare hosta seeds properly:
- In nature, hostas require a cold period before germinating. To simulate this, refrigerate the seeds for two to three weeks before planting.
- Place the seeds in moist potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of the same mix. Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent excess water buildup.
- Cover the pot and keep it in a warm, dark place.
- Hosta seeds usually take 1–3 weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings appear, move the pot to a bright southern window or under grow lights.
Note: It is recommended to start hosta seeds early, in January or February, because they are slow-growing perennials.
Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors
Follow these steps when moving hosta seedlings outdoors:
- First, harden the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor weather. Start by placing them in a shaded, protected spot for a few hours daily and increase the duration each day. This process takes about one week.
- Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the original pot to allow the roots to spread.
- Remove the plant from the pot and place it in the hole.
- Add some crumbled soil mixed with compost to the bottom of the hole.
- Ensure the crown (top of the plant) is level with the soil surface, then fill the hole with soil mixed with a little compost.
Note: Plant hostas early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Avoid planting at midday. Cloudy or rainy days are ideal for transplanting.
If you wish to plant hosta seeds directly outdoors, follow these steps:
- Sow seeds in moist soil when outdoor temperatures range between 15.5°C and 24°C.
- Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually takes 1–2 weeks.
Note: Outdoor planting is best done in spring or fall.
Caring for Hosta Plants
Watering
Depending on your soil, water hostas moderately and increase watering in very hot weather. The soil should never be completely dry or overly soaked. Although hostas love moist soil, they dislike waterlogging. Water them in the early morning or evening during summer.
Avoid watering from above to prevent leaf burn. To maintain soil moisture and reduce weed growth, apply a layer of mulch around the plant.
Fertilizing
Hostas do not require heavy fertilizing. Apply fertilizer only during planting, then add a small amount around the plant in early spring before new growth begins. If necessary, organic fertilizer can be applied right after flowering.
Pruning
Hostas require very little pruning. Leaves will naturally die back during cold weather dormancy. Remove yellow or wilted leaves as needed. After flowering, cut off spent blooms to encourage healthier growth.
