Hosta (Plantain Lily)

Very popular and undemanding perennial. Grown mostly for its decorative foliage, plants remain attractive from spring until frost. Most flower mid-July to early August. Hosta prefer partial shade, although a few will tolerate sun with adequate moisture. Use as a ground cover, for edging, or as an accent plant in the shady border.

NOTE SIZE: 25 X #1 TC: Look for this size for large bare root hosta grown from certified virus-free tissue culture. These hosta are grown for 2 years without digging and are tested 4 times per year for HVX. The 3rd year these hosta are dug, divided, replanted, and again tested 4 times for HVX. Any lots testing positive for HVX are immediatly destroyed. The 4th year these hosta are dug, graded for size, and packed for export. These hosta are not divided at this time to minimize infection and transference of HVX. This ensures the greatest possibility of receiving a virus-free crop along with realizing the benefits of field grown hosta, i.e. larger roots and more eyes.

Grow: Use well-drained soil with a pH 6.0 - 6.5. Center and plant so crown is 1" below soil surface, leaving developing eyes at or just below the soil surface. Spread roots evenly throughout the soil for faster growth.

Temperatures: Grow at 50F minimum to stimulate growth. If growing outside in early spring, do not allow pots to freeze.

Watering: Allow pots to dry slightly between watering, especially until growth appears.

Fertilizer: Hostas are light to moderate feeders. It is best to incorporate a slow release fertilizer in the soil prior to transplanting. If topdressing is desired, apply to the top of the soil after potting. If foliage is present, careful application must not allow fertilizer to become trapped in the leaf petioles. Otherwise, some leaf burning may occur.

Shade: Although some varieties are sun tolerant, provide 30% shade for best growth and quality.

Growing Temperature:	Grow at 50°F minimum to stimulate growth. If growing outside in early spring, do not allow pots to freeze.
Soil pH:	6.0-6.5
Fertility:	Hostas are light to moderate feeders. Liquid feed is suggested, avoid applying granular fertilizer near the crown.
Pests and Diseases:	Scout for Aphids on new growth, leaves will emerge disfigured when they unfurl if too much damage has occurred. Preventative sprays can reduce risks of Aphid damage. Slugs are of concern but can be limited by clean greenhouse practices. Rodents like to feed on roots and crowns; proper baiting is an important step in preparing for overwintering process.
Potting and Timing:	Plant in a container that is the correct size for roots. Most Hosta's need the summer to bulk and are ready for sales the following spring.
Moisture:	Allow pots to dry slightly between watering, especially until growth appears. Do not allow overwater or dry out completely.
Planting Level:	Center and plant so crowin is 1" below soil surface, eaving developing eyes at or just below the soil surface. Spreading roots evenly thoughout the soil for faster growth.
PGRs/Pinching:	Providing adequate space is the best method to achieve nicely shaped Hostas without stretching. PGRs can be applied if needed as a drench or spray application, consult your chemical specialist for application rates for your area.
Lighting:	Long days encourage new foliage growth and root growth. 30-50% shade is needed to prevent sunscald.