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Caring for Hostas

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-551 -- More Projects »
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Hostas are easy to grow and come in a wide variety of colors and sizes.

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Look for healthy white roots when buying hostas. Roots that are turning brown are a sign that the plant is dead.

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Hostas look great with other shade-loving plants, such as this fern. The contrast between the delicate, detailed leaves of the fern and the broad hosta makes for a very interesting garden design.
Master gardener Don Engebretson shares tips for growing luxurious hostas.

  • Hostas can be grown in areas of both part-time and full-time shade. The amount of sunlight required varies by cultivar.

  • Plain, green-leafed hostas will tolerate up to four hours of direct sunlight, so do not assume they have to be planted in total shade. However, as little as an hour in the sun can fade blue-leafed hostas and wash out variegated specimens, so those work best in true shade.

  • Gold hostas tolerate the most sunlight and are ideal for areas of the lawn that receive several hours of direct sunlight a day.

  • Hostas come in a variety of sizes, and leaves, ranging in size from dwarf to large.

  • When planted in good garden soil, hostas do not require fertilization to grow healthy.

  • Hostas prefer good soil with plenty of drainage. They do not grow well in clay.

  • Hostas require about an inch of water each week.

  • Use hostas as single specimens to add foundation and a focal point to the shade garden. Another option is to combine them with other shade-loving plants such as ferns or woodland wildflowers.

  • Know what size hosta is coming to live in the yard. A large hosta can take over a small space and overshadow any smaller plants.
Guests
Don Engebretson
University of Minnesota Master Gardener / Garden Writer and Expert
E-mail: don@renegadegardener.com
Website: www.renegadegardener.com
Also in this Episode
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-551
•Dry Rubs for Meat
•Caring for Hostas
•Cooking With Avocados
•Tip of the Day
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