1033
Hosta
Hosta is one of the most reliable plants for shaded Gardens. They're low-maintenance
plants that make few demands of the Gardener. Once established, hosta provides dramatic foliage
in a wide range of variegations. The leaves emerge in late spring and quickly become dominant
features among other shade perennials. In mid- to late-summer, the foliage supports elegant
stalks of bell-shaped flowers in white or shades of lavender. White flowers usually have a
sweeter scent than the lavender. These sturdy plants continue to add interest into the autumn as
the impressive clumps of foliage take on the golden tones of the season.
Hostas can be left in place indefinitely and require little attention, so it's wise to
incorporate a generous amount of organic matter into the soil prior to planting. This improves
moisture retention of the soil and encourages good root development. Plant hostas in shady or
partly shaded areas, and water regularly for optimum growth. At our higher elevation, exposure
to too much sun can result in scorched leaves.
 The enormous range of sizes and varieties allows you to pick an appropriate hosta for
many Garden needs. Smaller, compact varieties are perfect for grouping at the front of a bed or
border, or for edging. Mid-size hostas may be planted in groups or used individually to provide
contrast to an individual perennial or shrub. The larger varieties that grow to heights of four to five feet can easily stand as sentinel specimens that add a lush look to your Garden.
Some well-known hosta varieties that grow to a height of 18 to 30 inches include
Frances Williams, Krossa Regal, and Sum and Substance. Albo Marginata, Royal Standard and August Moon grow 12 to 18 inches tall. Ginko Craig, Blue Cadet and Pearl Lake feature compact foliage and are useful as edging because their height doesn't exceed 12 inches.
For more information, see the following Colorado State Extension fact sheet(s).
|
