Hosta nigrescens

Hostas can be planted in spring or autumn. Hostas prefer a deep, humus-rich, loose soil, which is preferably neutral to acidic and moist to wet throughout the year. Plant them in shade or partial shade and in a sheltered position 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 half compost with crumbled soil, partially backfill, and place your plant in a clump so that the top of the clump is covered with 3 cm (1in) of soil. The addition of a fertiliser (bonemeal) will nourish your plant during its rooting period without the risk of burning. Ensure that the collar is well above ground level. Firm the soil and water generously to eliminate air pockets. If the weather is dry, you will need to water regularly for a few weeks to help the establishment of your plant. Also, water regularly in case of a dry summer.

With their preference for humid areas, slugs and snails never stray too far from hostas. Even though blue or variegated hostas often have thicker and tougher foliage, which is less appetising to slugs, these plants must be protected from gastropods. Protect your hostas by surrounding them with granules approved in organic agriculture, 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 dig up the soil and do not attack the lush green shoots of young plants. Finally, some plants have a repellent odour for slugs, such as wormwood and garlic.