Hostas

Most hostas thrive in partial shade with morning sun and afternoon shade. However, sun tolerance varies by variety. Gold and fragrant hostas (like Sum and Substance, Guacamole, and varieties with Hosta plantaginea genetics) can handle 4-6 hours of direct sun. Blue hostas prefer more shade since their waxy blue coating degrades in intense heat and sun. For best results, provide consistent moisture if planting in sunnier locations.

Hostas range dramatically in size from 4-inch miniatures to 4-foot giants. They're classified into five official categories: Miniature (under 6" tall like Blue Mouse Ears and Mini Skirt), Small/Dwarf (7-10" tall, perfect for borders and containers), Medium (11-18" tall, the most common size), Large (19-28" tall like Blue Angel and Sagae), and Giant (28"+ tall, with Empress Wu reaching 40"T x 70"W). Most hostas reach mature size in 3-5 years.

While no hosta is completely deer-proof, thick-leaved varieties are less palatable to wildlife. For slug resistance, choose hostas with thicker, more textured leaves like Big Daddy, Sum and Substance, Brother Stefan, and other blue or heavily substanced varieties. Thin-leaved hostas are more susceptible to both pests. Proper garden hygiene and morning watering (not evening) can also reduce slug damage.

Hostas are incredibly hardy perennials that thrive in USDA zones 3-9, making them suitable for most of the United States. Cold-hardy varieties handle zone 3 winters (down to -40°F), while heat-tolerant varieties flourish in zone 9. Most varieties prefer zones 4-8. Use our zone filters to find hostas perfect for your climate.

The best times to plant hostas are early spring (as new shoots emerge) or fall (September-October). Spring planting allows roots to establish before summer heat, while fall planting takes advantage of cooler temperatures and consistent moisture. Avoid planting during peak summer heat. Hostas can also be divided every 3-4 years in spring or fall to propagate or control their spread.