Hosta Devon Green

Hostas are planted in spring or autumn. Hostas thrive in a deep, rich, humus-bearing, loose soil, preferably neutral to acidic (at least low in limestone), and moist to wet throughout the year. Plant them in partial or dappled shade, and in a sheltered location away from strong winds.

Prepare a planting hole of 20 cm (8in) x 20 cm (8in) x 20 cm (8in). If your soil is heavy, mix equal parts of compost with crumbled soil, partially backfill the hole, and place your potted plant in such a way that the top of the root ball is covered with 3 cm (1in) of soil. Applying a slow-release fertiliser (dehydrated blood, horn powder) will nourish your plant during its rooting period without the risk of burning. Make sure to position the collar well above the soil level. Firm the soil and water generously to eliminate air pockets. If the weather is dry, regular watering for a few weeks is necessary to facilitate the establishment of your plant. Also, water regularly during dry summers.

With their shared preference for moist locations, slugs and snails are never far away from hostas. Even though blue or variegated hostas often have thicker and tougher foliage, which is less appealing to slugs, these plants still need protection against gastropods. Protect your hosta plants by surrounding them with ferramol-based granules (approved for organic farming), eggshells, coffee grounds, mulch, or any dry and rough natural substance that repels them. Hedgehogs are the gardener's best allies in the fight against gastropods because, unlike chickens, they do not till the soil or attack the tender green shoots of young plants. Finally, some plants have a repulsive smell for slugs, such as wormwood and garlic.