Hostas are a popular choice for gardeners because they are easy to grow and care for, and they come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. But what plants go well with hostas?
In this article, we will discuss some of the best plants to pair with hostas, including those that complement their colors, textures, and growth habits. We will also provide tips on how to plant and care for these companion plants, so that you can create a beautiful and harmonious landscape.
So if you’re looking for some inspiration for your next garden design, read on!
Plant
Benefits
Tips
Astilbe
Adds height and texture to the border
Blooms in early summer
Tolerates shade
Plant astilbe behind hostas so that it doesn’t block the hostas’ blooms.
Water astilbe regularly, especially during dry spells.
Brunnera
Creates a lush, groundcover effect
Blooms in early spring
Tolerates shade
Plant brunnera in front of hostas so that it doesn’t crowd the hostas’ leaves.
Water brunnera regularly, especially during dry spells.
Calamagrostis
Adds movement and texture to the border
Blooms in late summer
Tolerates shade
Plant calamagrostis behind hostas so that it doesn’t block the hostas’ blooms.
Water calamagrostis regularly, especially during dry spells.
Dicentra
Adds early spring color to the border
Dainty flowers
Tolerates shade
Plant dicentra in front of hostas so that it doesn’t crowd the hostas’ leaves.
Water dicentra regularly, especially during dry spells.
Heuchera
Adds color and texture to the border
Blooms in early summer
Tolerates shade
Plant heuchera behind hostas so that it doesn’t block the hostas’ blooms.
Water heuchera regularly, especially during dry spells.
Lamium
Adds a splash of color to the border
Blooms in early summer
Tolerates shade
Plant lamium in front of hostas so that it doesn’t crowd the hostas’ leaves.
Water lamium regularly, especially during dry spells.
Liriope
Adds height and texture to the border
Blooms in late summer
Tolerates shade
Plant liriope behind hostas so that it doesn’t block the hostas’ blooms.
Water liriope regularly, especially during dry spells.
Monarda
Adds late summer color to the border
Fragrant flowers
Tolerates shade
Plant monarda behind hostas so that it doesn’t block the hostas’ blooms.
Water monarda regularly, especially during dry spells.
Ophiopogon
Adds a touch of evergreen interest to the border
Blooms in late summer
Tolerates shade
Plant ophiopogon in front of hostas so that it doesn’t crowd the hostas’ leaves.
Water ophiopogon regularly, especially during dry spells.
Tiarella
Adds a delicate touch to the border
Blooms in early spring
Tolerates
Hostas as Companion Plants
What are companion plants?
Companion plants are plants that are grown together in order to benefit each other. They can be used to improve the growth, health, and appearance of a garden, and can also help to deter pests and diseases.
How do hostas benefit from companion plants?
Hostas are shade-loving plants that can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Companion plants can help to protect hostas from these problems by providing a physical barrier between them and the pests, and by attracting beneficial insects that help to control pests. Companion plants can also help to improve the soil conditions around hostas, making them more fertile and healthy.
What plants make good companions for hostas?
There are many different plants that can make good companions for hostas. Some of the best options include:
Astilbe: Astilbe is a shade-loving perennial that produces delicate flowers in shades of pink, white, and purple. It helps to improve the soil around hostas by adding organic matter and nutrients.
Ferns: Ferns are another good choice for companion plants for hostas. They provide a natural groundcover that helps to protect hostas from the sun and wind.
Heuchera: Heuchera is a perennial that produces colorful foliage in shades of red, orange, and purple. It helps to improve the drainage around hostas, and can also help to deter pests.
Iris: Iris is a beautiful flower that comes in a variety of colors and shapes. It helps to attract beneficial insects to the garden, which can help to control pests.
Lobelia: Lobelia is a low-growing perennial that produces clusters of small, blue flowers. It helps to improve the air circulation around hostas, and can also help to deter pests.
How to plant hostas with companion plants
When planting hostas with companion plants, it is important to consider the following factors:
The size of the plants: Hostas come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose companion plants that are the same size or smaller.
The light requirements of the plants: Hostas are shade-loving plants, so it is important to choose companion plants that also prefer shade.
The water requirements of the plants: Hostas are drought-tolerant plants, so it is important to choose companion plants that have similar water requirements.
The soil conditions of the plants: Hostas prefer well-drained soil, so it is important to choose companion plants that also prefer well-drained soil.
Once you have considered these factors, you can begin planting your hostas with companion plants. Here are a few tips:
Plant hostas and companion plants in groups of three or more. This will help to create a more natural look and will also help to deter pests.
Space the plants so that they have enough room to grow. Hostas can spread to be quite large, so it is important to give them enough space.
Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Hostas are drought-tolerant, but they will do better if they are watered regularly.
Fertilize the plants in the spring and fall. This will help them to grow strong and healthy.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden with hostas and companion plants.
Choosing the Right Companion Plants
When choosing companion plants for hostas, there are a few factors to consider.
Light requirements: Hostas are shade-loving plants, so it is important to choose companion plants that also prefer shade.
Water requirements: Hostas are drought-tolerant plants, so it is important to choose companion plants that have similar water requirements.
Soil conditions: Hostas prefer well-drained soil, so it is important to choose companion plants that also prefer well-drained soil.
Size: Hostas come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose companion plants that are the same size or smaller.
Color: Hostas come in a variety of colors, so you can choose companion plants that complement or contrast the hostas’ colors.
Texture: Hostas have a variety of textures, so you can choose companion plants that have different textures to create a more interesting garden.
Once you have considered these factors, you can begin choosing companion plants for your hostas. Here are a few suggestions:
For shade-loving plants that have similar water requirements, try planting hostas with astilbe, ferns, heuchera, iris, or lobelia.
For drought-tolerant plants that have similar soil requirements, try planting hostas with
3. Planting and Caring for Hostas with Companion Plants
When planting hostas with companion plants, it is important to consider the following factors:
Sunlight: Hostas require partial shade to full shade, so it is important to choose companion plants that will tolerate the same amount of sunlight.
Water: Hostas are drought-tolerant plants, but they will benefit from regular watering during periods of drought. Companion plants should also be drought-tolerant.
Soil: Hostas prefer rich, well-drained soil. Companion plants should also be able to tolerate the same soil conditions.
Size: Hostas come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose companion plants that will not overwhelm the hostas.
Color: Hostas come in a variety of colors, so it is possible to create a beautiful and harmonious garden by choosing companion plants that complement the hostas’ colors.
Here are some tips for planting and caring for hostas with companion plants:
Plant hostas and companion plants in a location that receives partial shade to full shade.
Water hostas and companion plants regularly during periods of drought.
Fertilize hostas and companion plants according to the package directions.
Prune hostas and companion plants as needed to maintain their desired shape and size.
Protect hostas and companion plants from pests and diseases.
4. Benefits of Growing Hostas with Companion Plants
There are many benefits to growing hostas with companion plants, including:
Increased beauty and interest: Hostas are beautiful plants, but they can sometimes look a bit plain on their own. Companion plants can add interest and color to the garden, creating a more visually appealing landscape.
Improved pest and disease resistance: Companion plants can help to deter pests and diseases from attacking hostas. For example, marigolds are known to repel aphids, and yarrow is a good companion plant for hostas because it helps to prevent powdery mildew.
Enhanced pollination and fruit production: Some companion plants can help to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. This can help to increase the pollination of hostas and other plants in the garden, leading to more fruit production.
Reduced maintenance costs: Companion plants can help to reduce the amount of maintenance required for hostas. For example, some companion plants can help to suppress weeds, which can save time and money.
Hostas are beautiful and versatile plants that can be enjoyed by gardeners of all skill levels. By planting hostas with companion plants, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that is also low-maintenance.
What plants go well with hostas?
Hostas are a popular choice for shade gardens, and there are many different plants that can be paired with them to create a beautiful and harmonious landscape. Some of the best plants to grow with hostas include:
Astilbe: Astilbe is a genus of flowering plants in the family Saxifragaceae. It is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Astilbes are herbaceous perennials that produce showy clusters of flowers in shades of white, pink, red, and purple. They are tolerant of shade and moist soil, making them a good choice for planting near hostas.
Ferns: Ferns are a diverse group of plants that are characterized by their delicate, feathery foliage. They are a great choice for planting with hostas because they require similar growing conditions. Ferns can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one that will complement the look of your hostas.
Heucheras: Heucheras are a genus of flowering plants in the Saxifragaceae family. They are native to North America and are commonly known as coral bells. Heucheras are deciduous perennials that produce clusters of bell-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, red, and purple. They are tolerant of shade and moist soil, making them a good choice for planting near hostas.
Iris: Irises are a genus of flowering plants in the family Iridaceae. They are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Irises are herbaceous perennials that produce showy flowers in a variety of colors. They are tolerant of shade and moist soil, making them a good choice for planting near hostas.
Brunnera: Brunnera is a genus of flowering plants in the Boraginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia. Brunneras are herbaceous perennials that produce clusters of blue or white flowers in spring. They are tolerant of shade and moist soil, making them a good choice for planting near hostas.
What are the benefits of planting hostas with other plants?
There are many benefits to planting hostas with other plants, including:
Improved aesthetics: Hostas are a beautiful plant, but they can look a bit plain when planted on their own. By planting them with other plants, you can create a more interesting and visually appealing landscape.
Increased biodiversity: Planting hostas with other plants can help to attract a variety of beneficial insects and animals to your garden. This can help to improve the overall health of your ecosystem.
Reduced maintenance: Hostas are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they can benefit from being planted with other plants that help to improve the soil quality and deter pests.
What are some tips for planting hostas with other plants?
When planting hostas with other plants, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Consider the size and shape of the plants: When choosing plants to grow with hostas, it is important to consider the size and shape of the plants. Hostas can grow to be quite large, so it is important to choose plants that will not be overshadowed by them.
Match the plants’ growing conditions: Hostas are tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions, but they do best in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. When choosing plants to grow with hostas, it is important to make sure that they have similar growing conditions.
Plant the plants at the correct depth: Hostas should be planted so that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface. Planting them too deep can cause the plant to rot, while planting them too shallow can cause the plant to dry out.
Water the plants regularly: Hostas are drought-tolerant plants, but they do need to be watered regularly during dry periods. Water the plants deeply so that the water reaches the roots.
Fertilize the plants in spring: Hostas can be fertilized in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the directions on the fertilizer label for the correct amount to use.
What are some common problems with planting hostas with other plants?
There are a few common problems that can occur when planting hostas with other plants, including:
Hostas being overshadowed by other plants: If you plant hostas with plants that are much larger than them, the hostas may be overshadowed and not get enough sunlight.
Hostas competing with other plants for nutrients: If you plant hostas with plants that have similar nutrient requirements, the hostas may not get enough nutrients to thrive.
Hostas being damaged by other plants: Some plants, such as tree roots, can damage hostas by competing for water and nutrients or by
hostas are a versatile and easy-to-grow plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. They come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. When choosing plants to pair with hostas, keep in mind their light and water requirements. Hostas prefer partial shade and moist soil, so you’ll want to choose companion plants that have similar needs. Some good options include ferns, astilbe, and coral bells. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that features hostas as the centerpiece.
Author Profile
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.
Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.
Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.
