1) When does Savory’s Gardens ship hostas?
We ship bare root hostas during the two best planting windows of the year: late April through mid-June and September through early October. These seasonal windows help ensure your plants arrive at the right time for successful planting and establishment.
2) What does “bare root” mean?
Bare root means your hosta is shipped without a pot or soil around the roots. The roots are wrapped in moist newspaper and then plastic. This is a safe, proven way to ship hostas and helps reduce shipping weight while allowing the plant to establish quickly once planted. When your order arrives, simply plant it as soon as possible and water thoroughly.
3) How soon should I plant my hostas after they arrive?
You should plant your hostas as soon as possible after delivery. If you can’t plant immediately, keep them in a cool, shaded location and make sure the roots do not dry out. Prompt planting gives the roots the best chance to establish and supports healthy growth.
4) Where do hostas grow best—full shade or some sun?
Most hostas grow best in dappled shade or partial shade, not deep, dark shade. While many people think hostas are “full shade only,” some varieties tolerate more sun—especially in northern climates—as long as they receive enough water. Thick leaved varieties and fragrant ones are usually more sun tolerant. Blue varieties may lose their blue color in too much sun and heat.
5) How much water do hostas need?
Hostas perform best with consistent moisture. In general, they do well with about 1 inch of water per week. A deep soaking once or twice a week is usually better than light daily watering. Hotter or sunnier locations may require more frequent watering.
6) Do hostas need fertilizer?
Not always. If your soil is rich and healthy, hostas may need little to no fertilizer. If you choose to feed them, a general all-purpose fertilizer can work well. Potted hostas may benefit from fertilizing a few times during the season or using a slow-release formula.
7) How do I protect my hostas from deer, rabbits, and slugs?
Deer, rabbits, and slugs are common hosta pests. Here are a few helpful strategies:
· Use commercial repellents for deer and rabbits
· Reapply more often when spring shoots first emerge
· Try commercial slug baits to control slugs
· Choose thicker-leaved hostas, which are often less attractive to slugs
· If using mulch, try bark, cocoa mulch, pine straw, and others which slugs tend to dislike instead of mulches that provide moisture and shelter for them. (keep mulch away from crowns)
8) Can I grow hostas in containers or pots?
Yes—hostas can do very well in containers as long as the pot has excellent drainage and you water regularly. Be sure to water carefully around the crown and don’t let the roots dry out. Keep in mind that hostas are not ideal houseplants and still need a winter dormant period.
9) Do hostas need to be divided?
No—hostas do not need to be divided to stay healthy. They can thrive for many years without being split. Division is optional and is usually done to create more plants, share with friends, or manage the size of a mature clump.
10) What if a hosta I want is marked with a red “X”?
A red “X” means the variety is currently out of stock. Because hostas are living inventory, availability can change throughout the season. Be sure to check back later, since additional stock may become available.