Hostias are quite robust. Nevertheless, you should pay attention to a few things when cultivating the host so that it thrives magnificently.
Nowadays, up to 40 different varieties of hostas are available in specialist shops, which can be distinguished primarily by the color of the leaves (green, yellow-green and white stripes) and the color of the flowers (mainly white, violet, rosé).
Their exotic look always makes them a popular attraction in the shade bed, which they give a special splendor. And some hosta blossoms even bewitch the viewer with a very enchanting scent!
Planting Hostas
The Hosta, as the functio is also called, grows to a height of between 20 and 80 cm and can be planted outdoors or in containers. A shady to moderately semi-shady spot in nutrient-rich, loamy soil is all you need.
Tip: A few varieties even tolerate the sun quite well, e.g. B. August Moon or Sum and Substance.
Most hosta perennials will spread quite profusely in all directions over the years and can then easily be divided with a spade and replanted in a new location.
Pest control in hostas
Snails are probably one of the Funkie’s biggest enemies. Especially since they like to get to grips with the fresh, green leaves of the perennial in spring and often eat them off like a rat. Which is why it is definitely worth spreading slug pellets around the hostas from spring to autumn.
Tip: In the meantime, snail-resistant varieties such as B. Big Daddy, June or Halcyon, etc.
Care Tips for Hostas
Due to their large foliage, hostas need a lot of water - including perennials planted in tubs. Which is why they have to be watered several times, especially on warm days - avoid waterlogging at all costs! And even on dry winter days, the hosta needs to be watered moderately.
Tip: Bark mulch protects the hostas from drying out - especially in winter! Because Hostas always like a moist soil.
» Fertilize
Furthermore, hostas can be supplied with compost about twice a year (in April and immediately after flowering or in autumn) - work this in around the plant stem. If necessary, a minimal amount of fertilizer can even be applied before flowering.
» Winter protection
As winter protection, the Funkie should not be cut off its already withered foliage, even if it turns unsightly brown and looks slightly muddy. In this way, the hosta stays hardy and can even withstand temperatures down to -20 °C with almost no problems.
The mostly rotted leaves can only be cut off in early spring in order to support the usually quite late shoot of the new leaves.
Tip: Hostas that are kept in tubs, on the other hand, require additional winter protection, e.g. B. in the form of garden fleece or a covering of the pot with coconut mats or similar.