Blue Hosta Plant Care

As a general rule, blue hostas require a bit of light shade, both for preservation of the blue color and for prevention of leaf scorch. A moist soil rich in humus is preferred, and exposure to a bit of cool morning sun will grow the best clumps.

Can blue hostas take full sun?

Hosta varieties with extensive white coloration or with thin leaves are likely to burn in full sun. In general, blue-leaf hostas require shade, while those with fragrant flowers, gold or yellow foliage or slight white variegation can tolerate more sun.

How big will a blue hosta get?

Hosta 'Canadian Blue' Plants are dense and reach about 20 inches (50 cm) high by 24 inches (61 cm) across.

Is blue hosta a perennial?

Vigoro Blue Hosta plant. The low-maintenance perennial thrives on twice-weekly watering for hassle-free care, while the hardy roots withstand USDA zones 3 to 9. This non-fragrant plant features eye-catching blue leaves that make a perfect addition to beds with predominantly green foliage.

What is the lifespan of a hosta plant?

Hostas require little care and will live to be 30 or more years if properly cared for. While most known for thriving in the shade garden, the reality is more nuanced. The ideal situation is dappled shade.

Should hostas be watered every day?

Newly planted hostas will need daily watering for the first two weeks. Once established, small or medium plants will need a good soak once a week. Hostas are drought tolerant, yet like moist well drained soil. If the weather is hotter, increase the watering to three times per week.

Can you use Miracle Grow on hostas?

Hostas crave a steady nutrient supply throughout the growing season. A month after planting, feed them with Miracle-Gro® Shake 'n Feed® All Purpose Plant Food, making sure to follow the directions on the label. This will keep your hostas fed for up to three months.

Can hostas grow in pots?

Hostas are among those perennials that do very well growing in the confines of containers. They come in thousands of cultivars and they are easy to care for, making them the perfect plant for busy or distracted gardeners.

Do hostas like a lot of water?

In an ideal hosta garden, the plants would receive generous watering all season long. A slow, deep soaking of around an inch of water per week through the growing season is perfect. A single deep soak every week is always better than multiple, light waterings.

Why did my blue hosta turn green?

Most blue-leafed hostas become green at some time during the growing season when their waxy surface is not as reflective as it once was. The wax seems to almost melt off with exposure to hot sun, harsh watering, or some pesticide sprays.

How fast do blue hostas grow?

Like we stated earlier, it can take up to 5-7 years for some hostas to reach their mature height. It can also take that long for some characteristics to appear. Some blue hostas become bluer as they get older. Heavy corrugation can also take a few years to show up.

Do hostas multiply quickly?

How Fast Do Hostas Spread? This depends on the species. Fast growers may produce 20 offshoots a year. Slow growers may only produce 4 new plants every year.

Should hostas be cut back every year?

'You should definitely cut your hostas back in the fall to allow the plant to focus its energy on creating new growth after the winter has passed,' says expert Alex Tinsman from How To Houseplant (opens in new tab). Alex explains that hostas are perennial – meaning the leaves will die back in the winter if left alone.

Will my hostas get bigger every year?

Hostas are perennials, which means they will come back bigger and better every year. Most hostas grow well in Zones 3 to 9. These versatile shade plants form a mound of leaves but vary greatly by variety, offering differences in plant size, leaf shape, and leaf color.

Do hosta plants need cut back every fall?

As a general rule, hostas should be cut back in the late fall. Start with leaves that have wilted or turned brown. Healthy leaves can stay a bit longer to help the roots store needed energy. If 25% or more of the hostas is dying, you will know it is time to cut it back.

What happens if you don't divide hostas?

You'll know your hostas need to be divided when they get too crowded and the center of a clump starts to die out. As a general rule, count on dividing the plants every three to four years to keep them at their healthiest. Some slow-growing varieties may need more time before they're ready for division.

Will dead hostas come back?

Once pruned off, hosta leaves will not regrow until the following season.

How do I make my hostas grow bigger?

To achieve maximum growth potential, Hostas need soil that's rich in organic matter, regular water (at least an inch of water every week), and the right amount of sunlight for the specific variety. If any of these pieces are missing – your Hostas will grow slowly and not get as large.

What do Overwatered hostas look like?

Overwatering causes the entire leaf to turn yellow and start to droop. Underwatering causes the leaves to turn dry brown and yellow, usually starting at the tip. Most hostas want constantly moist soil but they aren't able to tolerate standing water.

How do I keep my hostas healthy?

How to Care for Hostas

1. Apply a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer after planting or when growth emerges in the spring.
2. Keep the soil moist but not soaked.
3. If the soil tends to dry out quickly, consider placing mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, but be aware that mulch can be a hiding place for slugs.