Hostas: The Shade Garden Foundation
Hosta spp.
Hostas are the go-to shade perennial. Huge, textured leaves ranging from electric chartreuse to deep blue-green to variegated. Low-maintenance once established, and they come back bigger and better every year.
Specifications
- Sun
- Part shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Hardiness zones
- 3–9
- Height
- 6 in – 4 ft
- Bloom time
- Mid-summer
Care & growing tips
Plant in rich, well-drained soil in part to full shade. Water at soil level — wet leaves invite slug damage. Divide every 3–5 years to keep them vigorous. Deer will eat them to the ground, so protect with fencing or deterrents.
Companion plants
03Find hostas in your zone
13Zone-specific care, planting windows, and alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
01 Can hostas grow in full sun?
Most prefer part to full shade. A few cultivars (like "Sum and Substance") tolerate morning sun, but leaves will scorch in afternoon sun.
02 How do I keep deer from eating my hostas?
Physical fencing works best. Deer-deterrent sprays help but need reapplying after rain. Plant deer-resistant companions nearby to mask the scent.
03 When do hostas come back up?
Late spring — hostas are slow to emerge. Don't panic if your neighbors' are showing leaves and yours aren't yet.
