Hosta growing guide

Hosta

Botanical Name: Handsome: Hosta venusta. ‘Catherine’: H. plantaginea. Shadowland‘Autumn Frost’, ‘Queen Josephine’, ‘Minuteman’, ‘Lemon Snap’: H. hybrid
Family: Asparagaceae
Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial Size (HxW): 10-30cm x 20-30cm. ‘Catherine’, ‘Queen Josephine’, ‘Minuteman’: 30-60cm x 60-90cm. ‘Autumn Frost’: 20-30cm x 30-60cm. ‘Lemon Snap’: 30cm x 40cm.
Depth & Spacing: Plant at the same level as in the pot with the roots spread evenly below the soil. See above for spacing, closer for a more immediate effect.
Soil: Moist, well drained, humus rich soil ideal.
Aspect: Filtered light, morning sun or part shade – they need a bit of light to flower.
Climate: Cool to Temperate
Frost: Hardy
Water: Water to establish, this takes 4-6 weeks of regular watering, then keep moist during active growth.
Fertiliser: A light application of a well balanced fertiliser spring and summer, they are not heavy feeders.
Flowering Time: Summer to autumn
After Flower Care: Remove any spent flowers and foliage to tidy.
Notes: Snails and slugs LOVE Hostas, so you may need to take measures to control them, especially as they emerge in August/ September. In pots you could try washed river sand to deter them. A good ground cover for shade. Great in pots, and they have the added advantage of allowing you to move them around. Divide in winter as required.

Hosta