When you start getting into exotic-looking plants, the biggest worry is usually whether they can survive a rough winter. Luckily, with Hostas (also known as Plantain Lilies), you can breathe a sigh of relief! These beauties are native to Japan, which means they are naturally built to handle frost and freezing temperatures without breaking a sweat.
Don’t Sweat the Deep Freeze
Even when the thermometer dips way below freezing, your Hostas are generally out of the danger zone. Most varieties are hardy down to -5°F. If you have them tucked away in a well-protected spot in your garden, they can even withstand snaps as cold as -13°F.
Nature’s Own Insulation
Once fall hits, you’ll notice the leaves starting to die back. Don’t worry—that’s just the plant retreating into its roots for a long winter nap. That leftover foliage actually acts as a natural mulch, insulating the crown against the ice. If you prefer a tidier garden and have already cleared the dead leaves, you should replace that protection with something else. Good options include:
- Dried leaves from other trees
- Brush or evergreen branches
- Bark mulch
- Garden fleece or frost blankets
Extra Love for Container Plants
If you’re growing your Hostas in pots, they need a little extra help since their roots are more exposed to the cold air. Before the first hard freeze, wrap your containers to keep the root ball cozy. Garden fleece works great, but you can also use coconut fiber mats or even old, heavy blankets you have laying around the garage.
Fall Prep and Spring Cleanup
Beyond winter protection, there are a few chores to check off your list as the season winds down. First, go ahead and snip off those old flower stalks. You’ll also want to gradually scale back on watering and stop fertilizing entirely after September—you want the plant to go dormant, not put out new growth.
You can start your feeding and watering routine again next year around March or April. That’s also the perfect time to clear away any old, mushy plant debris to make room for those beautiful new shoots!
