Expert care
When to plant and where:
Hostas are best planted in early autumn or late spring to avoid frost, which can damage their roots. Once established, however, they’re able to tolerate low temperatures – even below freezing!
Plant in a sheltered spot to prevent strong winds from damaging leaves.
They are shade-lovers so are ideal beneath overhanging trees or near walls. Moist, but not waterlogged, soil is best.
Planting:
When planting, dig in plenty of coarse grit to keep the soil free draining. Although hostas will tolerate poor soil, they’ll do even better if you incorporate plenty of nutrient rich compost into the planting hole. Some gardeners add water-retaining granules to the backfill planting mixture. Spread the roots out and position at ground level. Keep new plants well watered during the first season to help them establish quickly.
Tidy leaves:
At the end of the season the dying leaves can be left but, as they might provide a home for slugs too, gently tug them off and pop them in your compost bin.