Garden designs are rarely set in stone. Every once in a while, a backyard makeover means some of your favorite plants have to pack their bags and move to a new spot. If your Hostas are on the “moving list,” don’t worry! With a few simple tips, you can make sure they settle into their new home without skipping a beat.
Timing is Everything
Hostas are incredibly hardy and low-maintenance, so they usually handle a move like pros. However, your best bet for success is to catch them during their dormant phases—either in early spring or fall. In both cases, the sooner you get to work, the better. This gives your Hostas plenty of time to establish a strong root system before the winter frost sets in or the summer blooming season kicks off.
Finding the Perfect New Spot
While Hostas are easy-going when it comes to care, most varieties are actually pretty picky about their location. Only the solid green varieties can handle much direct sun; most others will get scorched. For the best results, look for a spot in full or partial shade. You’ll also want to make sure the soil is:
- Rich in nutrients
- Full of organic matter (humus)
- Well-draining
- Ideally a bit loamy
Propagating Your Hostas
Moving day is actually the perfect time to propagate your plants by dividing them. When you’re digging them up, keep your radius wide—Hostas are shallow-rooted, so they spread out rather than down. You won’t need to dig very deep, but you want to save as much of that root mass as possible. Once the plant is out, simply use a sharp spade to slice the clump into several smaller sections.
Give Your Plants a Youthful Boost
Dividing your Hostas doesn’t just give you “free” plants; it actually rejuvenates them. Once a Hosta gets too big, it starts putting all its energy into outward growth, which often means fewer flowers. Even if you aren’t planning a big garden renovation, it’s a good idea to divide your Hostas about every four years to keep them looking lush and vibrant.
