Once established, fertilize the hostas once or twice in spring usually just as they break ground and about 3-4 weeks later. I like to start with a regular 10-10-10 quick release fertilizer in early spring just as they break ground (also known as the "bullet stage"), and then follow up with a 14-14-14 OSMOCOTE (slow release) in May.
Watering is important. You must water hostas well at time of planting and throughout the growing season if rain is lacking. Hostas are not draught tolerant and the best growth you will have when water is readily available. In hot summer months, the large leaves transpire moisture easily and frequent watering will be required. If you do nothing else in the garden, remember to water the hostas.
Slugs and Pests
The biggest threat to hostas is slugs and snails which will eagerly devour the tender leaves. Luckily these are easily handled with some slug bait like Deadline or Sluggo. Please refer to the separate article Garden Pests: Slugs and Snails. I usually add slug bait in early spring followed by 1-2 additional applications. That is typically enough for a whole season.
If you are plagued by deer or rabbits in your area, you may have to find a way to prevent them from visiting your hostas which are all time favorites.
Spraying plants with "Deer-Off" or using fences to separate the wild life and hostas will be required.
The Perfect Plant?
If you are looking for low maintenance color in shade, look to hostas. Today several hundreds if not thousands of different cultivars (varieties) exists. Some of the newer cultivars are very expensive, but you can get some very beautiful and fragrant hostas for less than $3 - $5 / each.
If your goal is a no-fuss, low maintenance color for shade, hostas may just be your choice.
Sources Used:
- "Hosta Culture", Delaware Valley Hosta Society
- "Growing Hostas", Heinke & Martin, Factsheet: HYG-1239-02, Ohio State University Extension
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