Can Hostas Still Be Planted in the Autumn?
Absolutely, they can! ...... In fact it is a very good time to plant Hostas ready for a great spring display.
Hostas are best loved for their stunning foliage and shade tolerance. They are fabulous for brightening up that dull shady border in your garden. Timing of planting can be crucial for their long-term success.
Whether you are a newbie to gardening or have many years’ experience as a gardener, understanding optional planting times will help your Hostas establish well and provide you with years of stunning beauty.
We will offer guidance as to the optimal times to plant Hostas and compare Spring with Autumn planting and share expert tips to help your Hostas along the way.
Firstly! Why does timing matter?
Hostas are truly hardy and resilient perennials, but the majority of their success depend heavily on when they get planted. Planting at the right time allows the root system to establish before extreme weather hits.
Root establishment
Hostas need time to develop a good root system before extreme summer heat or the winter freeze.
Reduced transplant shock
Cooler temperature and consistent moisture help the Hosta to recover faster
Optimal growth
Properly timed planting results in fuller, healthier foliage in the first season.
When is the best time to plant Hostas?
The first thing to say is that almost any time of year, with the exceptions of extreme weather, it is OK to plant Hostas. Any time of year is not always the most optional time but nevertheless needs must. If you need to plant at any time other than Spring or Autumn, then that will be fine.
Clearly there are two optimal periods to plant Hostas - Spring and Autumn. So, which is better? Is one period better than the other? Let’s have a look.
Spring Planting
This would be after the last frost, when the soil is workable. This is usually from the end of April to the end of May. Depending on the weather conditions this could be started earlier of carried on until later.
In spring, the soil is starting to warm up, encouraging new root growth.
Plants will have a full growing season to establish.
It is much easier to monitor & adjust moisture levels.
It is an ideal time for areas with a much cooler climate, such as north Scotland.
Spring planting means a longer period of establishment.
The downside of early Spring planting are any late frosts. The Hostas, even though they are hardy when established, need to be protected. Have your fleece on speed-dial. They will also need regular watering during the summer months.
Autumn planting
Best practice some 6-8 weeks before first hard frost. So, planting August – October in general, with exception for a mild autumn/winter.
Planting in Autumn provides cooler air temperatures which reduces stress.
The soil is still warm, so promotes quicker root growth.
Less watering is required due to Autumn rain. (thank you Yorkshire!)
Ideal for those in milder climates like most of the UK.
Reduced pest pressure. Less maintenance
No need for any frost protection measures as they will soon be dormant, if not already.
Risk of heaving in the freeze-thaw cycles, must mulch well to protect the soil as much as the Hosta.
Please note, that whenever you choose to plant your Hostas, they should always be outside. Do not put them in the garage or conservatory, for protection. Hostas need a period of “vernalisation” (being affected by frost) to produce a great show the following Spring. Without vernalisation the Hosta will be a bit weaker and not be as good for the whole season. Keep them outside!
What’s the verdict then?
For most gardeners the obvious choice is early Autumn (September-October). The soil is still warm, air temperatures are cooler and there’s typically more rainfall, creating the perfect conditions for root establishment without the stress of summer heat.
However, Spring planting has its own benefits if you can avoid those frost periods and provide adequate water over the summer.
It would appear, there is no ‘right or wrong’ time to plant Hostas, just optimal periods that may be a little more advantageous than others, so ultimately plant at any time of year avoiding frost & snow & long hot & dry periods.
You can buy Hostas all year round and therefore plant all year round. If the open ground conditions are not suitable, or the plant is immature, then they can always go into a pot ready for when the ground is suitable. Or create displays that are all in containers this can be done most of the year.
My only suggestion whenever you decide to plant Hostas, only plant good, strong, healthy Hostas with good root systems.
If you plant weaker plants with a poor root system, it doesn’t matter when you plant them, they are more likely to struggle or even die.
Happy planting, whenever that is?
At Rewela Hostas, we are delighted to provide a diverse selection of Hostas suitable for collectors, experienced growers, and beginners alike. As a small family-run Hosta business we are more than happy to share our expert advice on everything related to Hostas. Shop now on our on-line shop for a wide range of Hostas, from new varieties to classics.
Or why not come and see us? We open the nursery by appointment, just ring 07539 428892 to book, we would love to see you.
Shop for Hostas online HERE
John Plant
Rewela Hostas
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