Asian Gardening & Hostas: Serenity in Shade

One of the basic rules of most Asian gardening is no flowers.  Texture, colors of foliage, height and shape are of paramount importance.

From Asia, we discovered the gift of the Hosta, which now graces millions of gardens across the United States. This plant was brought to Europe in it this early 1700's and today there are over 2500 cultivars with a variety of leaf shape, size, and texture.

They are low maintenance and their shade requirements vary widely depending on the color and variety.  They all require some shade and the crown must be in good drainage or the plant suffer from rot.  They will reach full maturity within 4 to 8 years. 

With a wide range of color and mixed colors there is one variety in which the foliage is so deep it is called blue and in others a light chartreuse to a soft creamy white.  There is a totally creamy white called Hen Feathers.  My experience with that plant, however has been that it comes up creamy white and stays white until the Kansas heat at which time it wilts, dies, and comes back green for the remainder of the Summer.  This has not discouraged me from planting it!

A general rule is the lighter the foliage the brighter the sun it can withstand.  Variegated can stand more sun to keep their white, gold and stripes, deep green do best in moderate shade and none are known to live in full sun.  The exception to this rule would be the Hen Feathers, which requires the darkest, coolest corner of your garden.

They have few pests,  however if you notice deer nibbling on them plant daffodils nearby, and if you notice slugs sprinkle sand around the perimeter and base of the plant.

So in that spot in your garden which has just a little bit too much shade, I would recommend each of you try at least one variety of Hosta and you may find a lifelong love affair........

 Submitted by cbooz