The Secret to Growing Indoor Hostas

Hostas are a leafy, shade-loving perennial that will please any client with their lush foliage and delicate flowers. Many characteristics make hostas work for indoor plant arrangements. Their most stunning characteristic, the foliage, will add depth to any plant arrangement. Hostas are a family of plants made up of many species and cultivars that come in a wide variety of color, size and shape making it easy to find perfect complements to any plant arrangement. Hostas also grow well in containers and do not require direct light, making it possible to grow them indoors.

Variety

Hostas range in color from deep green to very light yellow. There are even some blue and gray varieties as well as variegated varieties. Typically, the foliage is beautifully textured with prominent veins. Leaf shape also varies including broad, heart-shaped leaves, slender elongated ovals and everything in between. The flowers which are either white, blue or purple rise above the foliage on a stalk. According to Wikipedia Hosta plantaginea is the only species that has a fragrant flower. The size of the plant also covers a broad range. DoItYourself.com indicates that some Hostas grow as large as 28 inches tall and others only 4 inches.

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Planting

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Hostas grow well in large containers. The roots need room to grow so be sure that there is space for them to stretch downward. DoItYourself.com recommends a container at least 18 inches deep. Also, make sure that the pot is at least as wide as the expected mound of foliage. Choose soil that is rich in organic material and has been sterilized to prevent fungus growth. A soil with peat moss will help keep the pot moist. Hostas are also heavy feeders so add a slow release fertilizer or fertilize regularly. Place the hosta in a location that receives a good amount of indirect light. Direct light will burn the leaves. Also, be aware that the color of the leaves can be effected by how much light the hosta is exposed to regularly. Make sure to choose a variety of hosta that will thrive in the type of environment you have available. Generally, blue and gray hostas are pickier than green ones.

Challenges

One challenge that indoor hosta growers face is maintaining the right amount of moisture. Too much water can cause problems such as crown rot, but hostas prefer to remain moist. You may want to consider a sub irrigation system so that water is not a constant concern.

Another challenge is weather. For most indoor plants it is preferred that the temperature remain constant, but hostas are different. They require a period of dormancy that outside is provided naturally by descending temperatures. Garden Guides suggests that this period of dormancy can be mimicked by moving the plants to a cool, dark space where temperatures remain colder than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. You may also want to place some mulch on top of the container to maintain moisture. In the spring, the plants can be moved back to their indoor location.

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A hosta can grow in a large container for up to three years. Garden Guides recommends checking the pot in the spring to make sure that roots are not pressed up against the side of the pot or sticking out the drainage holes. If this is the case, re-plant the hosta in a container 2-4 inches larger than the previous container.

Despite a few challenges, hostas can make an excellent and stunning addition to an indoor landscape. If your client is looking for lush, leafy green foliage throughout the summertime consider the many varieties of hosta. Hostas also work great for patio planters in shady spaces. How have you used hostas indoors? Do you have a favorite variety?

Photo “Hostas!” courtesy of London Looks

Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor