Planting Hostas: A Complete Guide

What Are Hostas?

Hostas are one of the easiest-to-grow plants in the US, and they're cold-hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 9. Hostas are shade-tolerant and require very little maintenance and care. In short, anyone can grow hostas—and these foliage-heavy plants will be quick to reward you with big, bold "plant-y" looks.

Hostas are the go-to choice for gardeners seeking robust, low-maintenance plants. Need a solution for a shaded yard spot? Consider hostas. Looking to enhance the edges of paths or driveways? Hostas are ideal! Want a leafy alternative to ground cover plants? Read on for insights into planting, growing, and caring for hostas effectively!

How to Grow Hostas

Hostas are relatively easy to care for. Once planted, they quickly become established pieces of your landscape, and they'll happily grow for years. These plants are relatively carefree in terms of soil and light requirements, too. They are regularly browsed by wildlife and are susceptible to slugs, so you may need to institute a bit of pest control.

When to Plant Hostas

Plant hostas in early to mid-spring, so that they have time to settle in before the hot summer months. Hostas are typically shipped as bare root bulbs, and you should plant them as soon as you receive them—bare-root plants don't like to wait around. If you're not able to plant your hostas immediately, be sure to store them in a cool, dry space. Knowing when to plant hostas is crucial for their growth.

Where to Plant Hostas

Hostas grow best in partially or fully shady locations. Try planting hostas in the shadows of fences, outbuildings, or other plants. The exception: variegated and gold-colored hostas can handle more sun. The lighter the foliage, the brighter the sun your plant needs! Deciding where to plant hostas can impact how well they thrive.

Soil for Hostas

Hostas are also happy to live near water, as they can handle relatively moist soil. However, they do require lots of drainage, so you'll want to mix in compost, bone meal, or peat moss into the soil if you are in a heavy-clay area. If you have alkaline soil, consider mixing in some acidifier or lime, as hostas prefer slightly acidic soil. You'll only need to add soil amendments one time: once hostas are established, they take off and can grow in almost any soil.

How to Plant Hostas

When planting hostas, consider how far apart to plant hostas to allow them room to grow. Generally, spacing them 18 to 24 inches apart is ideal. Knowing how deep to plant hosta roots is also important; aim for a depth of about one inch below the soil surface. If you start with bare roots, knowing how to plant hosta roots correctly ensures successful establishment.

Hosta Care

Caring for hostas involves regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize in spring to boost growth. Hostas can thrive in various soils as long as they are well-drained. Regular checks for pests like slugs and deer will help keep your hostas healthy. Incorporating these hosta care tips will ensure your plants flourish.

Hostas do just fine overwintering outdoors in temperate climates. You can cut back the foliage of your hostas in the fall. Wait until after the first few frosts, to allow the plant to prepare itself for winter before cutting. And, many hosta varieties sport beautiful fall foliage, and you don't want to miss out on the show! If you live in a particularly cold area, mulch over your hosta, and don't clear snow off your hosta garden: it helps to insulate your plants.

When to Transplant Hostas

If you need to move your hostas, knowing when to transplant hostas is key. Transplant in early spring or fall when the weather is cooler. Carefully dig up the clump, divide if necessary, and relocate to a prepared site. Understanding how to plant hostas in their new location can make the transition smoother.

How to Divide Hostas

Hostas have a clumping root system that grows out as the plant grows up. They don't need to be divided for the health of the plant, but you can definitely divide hostas to maintain a neater appearance. And, you may just find that you want offshoots of your favorite hostas in different locations around your garden—or, you might need to share a few baby hostas with your jealous friends and neighbors.

When to Divide Hostas

Start by dividing hostas in the spring, while there's plenty of moisture available and before their leaves grow out for the summer. Wait for the hostas to sprout, but divide them before they bloom or grow to their fullest height. Gently dig up the hosta, and cut the root clump using scissors of a clean knife. Then, replant the hostas and water them well!

Growing Hostas in Containers

Hostas can be grown as houseplants, but they can be a bit difficult. Hostas need frequent watering, so water your plant whenever the top inch of soil feels slightly dry. Fertilize once per month through the growing season. Direct sunlight is too bright and warm for an indoor hosta, so place hostas in containers in indirect light.

Your indoor hosta will need a period of dormancy in order to grow—that's a departure from the other tropical houseplants you may keep. In the winter, move your potted houseplant to a garage or shed where it can rest in cool, dark conditions. Water it every month during the winter. Then, begin watering and fertilizing the plant when you bring it indoors.

Hosta Pests and Frequently Asked Questions

Are Hostas Edible

Yes, hostas are edible! In fact, hostas belong to the Asparagaceae family and can be enjoyed during meals as a garnish, can be stir-fried, sautéed, or used as an ingredient in your favorite sandwich or wrap. Hosta flowers are also edible and make for a colorful and vibrant garnish.

Are Hostas Poisonous to Dogs and Cats?

While hostas are edible for humans, hostas actually contain a toxin called glycoside saponins, which is extremely poisonous to dogs and cats. If you suspect that your pet has eaten hostas, your pet should be seen by a veterinarian or professional as consuming hostas may cause your pet to vomit, have diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, possible twisting of intestines, distress, and loss of appetite.

Do Hostas Attract Snails?

The big leaves, soft bases, and moisture preferences of hostas do make them vulnerable to various forms of mollusca (snails and slugs), and their tenderness tends to attract deer and rabbits. With a little planning ahead, you can keep pests and wildlife out of your hosta garden.

To treat hostas for slugs and snails, sprinkle diatomaceous earth on and around your plants: the soft bodies of slugs and snails can't cross the rough material, and D.E. contains no harsh chemicals. Slug and snail bait is also available at your local hardware store. Some gardeners have luck setting beer traps. In order to set a beer trap for slugs, dig a trench near your affected plants and fill it with, that's right, any garden-variety beer! The slugs are attracted to beer but cannot escape the trench once inside.

Do Deer Eat Hostas?

Yes, as annoying as it may be, deer love to eat hostas and it's one of their favorite plants to eat. Usually leaving behind the stems, deer enjoy snacking on the foliage of the hosta's leaves. To keep deer away from your hostas, try using deer repellent or other home remedies like essential oils, lavender, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or clove. The good news is that if deer have eaten your beautiful hostas, they will eventually grow back. We recommend cutting the hostas back to the ground if you notice that deer have gotten to your hosta plants.

Planting Video for Hostas

Download the Hosta Planting Guide