HOSTA come in many sizes and colors. From solid greens of several shades to variegated colors, HOSTA make a lovely splash in the PERENNIAL GARDEN.
Currently there are more than 70 species of Hosta and over 100 varieties with new hybrids and cultivars being added yearly.
Commonly known as Hosta but also known as plantain lilies and occasionally by the Japanese name gibōshi, Hostas are widely cultivated as shade-tolerant foliage plants. In addition to the lush foliage, the Hosta also provide a lovely blooming flower for an even greater spectacle in the landscape and grow best in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
While usually grown for ornamental purposes, all species of Hosta are edible, and are grown as vegetables in some Asian cultures. However, Hostas may be toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if consumed in large quantities because some contain saponins. Symptoms of toxicity in these animals include vomiting and diarrhea.
Hosta leaves and stems are eaten by deer, rabbits, slugs and snails, and the roots and rhizomes are eaten by voles, all of these can cause extensive damage to your Hosta collections in your gardens. Some varieties seem more resistant to slug damage, which is more prevalent later in the growing season, than others. Electroculture practices have been highly effective and can obliterate the slug and snail infestations in Hosta beds and containers.
It is very easy to divide Hostas to expand your collection in your perennial garden or to share with friends and family. To divide the Hosta in your landscape, etch a circle around the Hosta with a spade or shovel then dig up the Hosta clump with soil intact. Once removed from the hole, loosen as much soil as possible around the roots of the Hosta. Pull apart the roots and divide. As you see in the picture, soaking the Hosta overnight helped to loosen the soil around the entangled roots. Sometimes I have had to use a kitchen butcher knife to divide Hostas. As long as you keep most of the roots intact you will have a successful division to re-plant.
So go out and multiply by dividing in your garden. And don’t forget to share some love with your neighbor.
We would love to hear from you. Tell us about the Hostas in your PERENNIAL GARDEN. HAPPY GARDENING!