Hostas are long-lived perennials that thrive in semi-shade and are relatively low maintenance. Size varies from two inches to three feet in height. Their spread can be less than a foot to five feet. Hostas are grown primarily for luxuriant foliage. They may be green, blue, gold, or variegated. Hostas produce many flowers. Colors include white, lavender and purple. Some are delightfully fragrant.

Large clumps are the most attractive specimens; therefore, don't divide them unnecessarily. Divide clumps of hosta every five to eight years, in early spring before growth starts. Use a sharp knife for making divisions. Each division should have at least two or three buds with roots attached. Potted hostas can be planted any time of the year.

Hostas prefer slightly acid soil. They like medium fertility and high organic matter levels. Anything you do to make the soil more nutrient-, air- and moisture-retentive is helpful. Organic matter, such as compost or fibrous peat, helps open up a heavy clay soil. It adds moisture-holding capacity to loose sandy soils. Organic matter should be spaded in or roto-tilled to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Good drainage is important, especially during late winter and spring.

A few hostas grow in full sun, but most require some shade. Don't plant hostas beneath shallow -ooted trees or shrubs. Use a summer mulch to conserve water and keep roots cool. If your plants are not performing well, spring fertilizing may help. Try 10-10-10 applied at 1/2 the recommended rate.

Most hostas are winter hardy in Minnesota. A loose winter mulch is good assurance against winter injury, especially for newly planted hostas. Remove the mulch along with the previous year's dead foliage before growth starts. If slugs are a problem, read listen to INFO-U phone message number 446 for suggestions on their control.

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