What Plants Pair Well With Hostas?

What Plants Go With Hostas?

Hostas are a popular choice for shade gardens, and for good reason. They’re easy to grow, tolerant of a wide range of conditions, and come in a variety of colors and leaf shapes. But if you’re just planting hostas for the first time, you may be wondering what other plants to put them with.

The good news is that hostas are compatible with a wide range of other plants. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best plants to pair with hostas, as well as some tips for creating a beautiful and harmonious garden.

Plant Name	Description	Companion Plants
Astilbe	Astilbe is a genus of flowering plants in the family Saxifragaceae. It is native to Asia, Europe, and North America. Astilbes are herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes. They have delicate, fern-like foliage and showy flowers in shades of pink, white, and purple. Astilbes are shade-tolerant plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. They make excellent companions for hostas, as they both thrive in similar conditions.	Brunnera, ferns, hellebores, impatiens, pulmonarias
Brunnera	Brunnera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia. Brunneras are herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes. They have large, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of blue, white, or pink flowers. Brunneras are shade-tolerant plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. They make excellent companions for hostas, as they both thrive in similar conditions.	Astilbes, ferns, hostas, pulmonarias
Ferns	Ferns are a group of vascular plants that lack flowers, fruits, and seeds. They are characterized by their delicate, fern-like leaves. Ferns are found in a wide variety of habitats, from tropical rainforests to deserts. They are shade-tolerant plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. Ferns make excellent companions for hostas, as they both thrive in similar conditions.	Astilbes, brunneras, hostas, impatiens
Heucheras	Heuchera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Saxifragaceae. It is native to North America. Heucheras are herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes. They have delicate, fern-like foliage and showy flowers in shades of pink, white, and purple. Heucheras are shade-tolerant plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. They make excellent companions for hostas, as they both thrive in similar conditions.	Astilbes, ferns, hostas, impatiens
Impatiens	Impatiens is a genus of flowering plants in the family Balsaminaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Impatiens are herbaceous perennials or annuals that grow from tuberous roots. They have delicate, heart-shaped leaves and showy flowers in shades of pink, white, and purple. Impatiens are shade-tolerant plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. They make excellent companions for hostas, as they both thrive in similar conditions.	Astilbes, brunneras, ferns, hostas
Pulmonarias	Pulmonaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia. Pulmonarias are herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes. They have large, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of blue, white, or pink flowers. Pulmonarias are shade-tolerant plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. They make excellent companions for hostas, as they both thrive in similar conditions.	Astilbes, brunneras, ferns, hostas

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 each other.

Why are companion plants important for hostas?

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, attracting beneficial insects, and improving the soil conditions.

How to choose companion plants for hostas

When choosing companion plants for hostas, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Sunlight: Hostas need partial to full shade, so it is important to choose companion plants that will tolerate the same amount of sunlight.
• Water: Hostas need regular watering, so it is important to choose companion plants that have similar water requirements.
• Soil conditions: Hostas prefer moist, well-drained soil, so it is important to choose companion plants that will thrive in the same soil conditions.
• Pests and diseases: Hostas can be susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to choose companion plants that will help to deter or repel these problems.

Examples of good companion plants for hostas

Some good companion plants for hostas include:

• Astilbe: Astilbe is a shade-loving perennial that blooms in late spring and summer. It attracts beneficial insects and helps to improve the soil conditions.
• Brunnera: Brunnera is a shade-loving perennial that blooms in early spring. It has blue-green leaves and white flowers.
• Coral bells: Coral bells is a shade-loving perennial that blooms in late spring and summer. It has bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and white.
• Daylilies: Daylilies are a sun-loving perennial that blooms in early summer. They attract pollinators and help to improve the soil conditions.
• Hostas: Hostas are shade-loving perennials that come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They are a good choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
• Lungwort: Lungwort is a shade-loving perennial that blooms in early spring. It has blue-green leaves and white flowers.
• Sedges: Sedges are a group of grass-like plants that come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They are a good choice for adding texture and interest to a shady garden.
• Tulipa: Tulips are a spring-blooming bulb that come in a variety of colors and shapes. They attract pollinators and help to improve the soil conditions.

Planting Hostas with Other Plants

When to plant hostas with other plants

Hostas can be planted with other plants in the spring or fall. The best time to plant them will depend on your climate. In general, hostas should be planted when the soil is warm and moist, but not too wet.

How to plant hostas with other plants

To plant hostas with other plants, follow these steps:

1. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the hosta’s root ball.
2. Add a few inches of compost or organic matter to the bottom of the hole.
3. Gently place the hosta in the hole and fill it with soil.
4. Water the hosta thoroughly.
5. Mulch around the hosta to help retain moisture and protect the roots from the sun.

Tips for success when planting hostas with other plants

Here are a few tips for success when planting hostas with other plants:

• Choose plants that have similar water and sunlight requirements.
• Plant hostas in a location where they will not be disturbed by foot traffic.
• Mulch around the hostas to help retain moisture and protect the roots from the sun.
• Water the hostas regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilize the hostas in the spring and fall.
• Divide the hostas every few years to keep them healthy and vigorous.

Hostas are beautiful and versatile plants that can be used in a variety of garden settings. By planting them with other plants, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that is both functional and attractive.

3. Caring for Hostas with Other Plants

When planting hostas with other plants, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Sunlight: Hostas need partial to full shade, so make sure to choose companion plants that will not shade them out.
• Water: Hostas are drought-tolerant plants, but they will benefit from regular watering during dry spells.
• Soil: Hostas prefer rich, well-drained soil.
• Fertilizer: Hostas do not need a lot of fertilizer, but they may benefit from a light application of fertilizer in spring and fall.
• Pests and diseases: Hostas are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, so it is important to be aware of these and take steps to prevent them.

Watering hostas with other plants

Hostas are drought-tolerant plants, but they will benefit from regular watering during dry spells. When watering hostas, it is important to water the soil thoroughly, so that the water reaches the roots of the plants. Avoid watering the leaves of hostas, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing hostas with other plants

Hostas do not need a lot of fertilizer, but they may benefit from a light application of fertilizer in spring and fall. When fertilizing hostas, it is important to use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for hostas. Avoid using fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive growth and make the plants more susceptible to pests and diseases.

Pruning hostas with other plants

Hostas do not require a lot of pruning, but it is important to remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season. You may also want to prune hostas in late winter or early spring to remove any old foliage. When pruning hostas, it is important to use sharp, clean shears.

Pests and diseases of hostas with other plants

Hostas are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, slugs, snails, mites, and powdery mildew. It is important to be aware of these pests and diseases and take steps to prevent them.

• Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of hostas. They can cause leaves to wilt and turn yellow. To control aphids, you can spray the plants with a water hose, apply an insecticidal soap, or use a biological control such as ladybugs or lacewings.
• Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on the leaves of hostas. They can cause leaves to be eaten away, leaving holes or ragged edges. To control slugs and snails, you can hand-pick them, use a slug bait, or apply diatomaceous earth around the plants.
• Mites: Mites are tiny, eight-legged arachnids that feed on the sap of hostas. They can cause leaves to become stippled or yellow. To control mites, you can spray the plants with a water hose, apply an insecticidal soap, or use a miticide.
• Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes white, powdery growth on the leaves of hostas. It can cause leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. To control powdery mildew, you can prune affected leaves, water the plants in the morning, and avoid overhead watering. You can also apply a fungicide.

4. Troubleshooting Problems with Hostas with Other Plants

If you are having problems with your hostas, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

• What to do if hostas are not growing well with other plants: If your hostas are not growing well, it could be because they are not getting enough sunlight, water, or fertilizer. Check the sunlight, water, and fertilizer requirements for your hostas and make sure that they are getting what they need. You may also want to check the soil pH and make sure that it is in the correct range for hostas.
• What to do if hostas are being harmed by other plants: If your hostas are being harmed by other plants, you can try to remove the offending plants. You can also try to protect your hostas with a physical barrier, such as a row of mulch or a fence.
• What to do if hostas are competing with other plants: If your hostas are competing with other plants for resources, you can try to thin out the other plants. You can also try to fertilize the hostas more often or water them more frequently.

  What plants go well with hostas?

• Hostas are shade-loving plants that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, so they can be paired with a variety of other plants. Some good companion plants for hostas include:
• Astilbe: Astilbe is a perennial flowering plant that adds height and color to the garden. It blooms in late spring and summer, and its delicate flowers provide a nice contrast to the large leaves of hostas.
• Ferns: Ferns are another good choice for companion plants for hostas. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they add a touch of greenery to the garden.
• Heucheras: Heucheras are also known as coral bells, and they are a type of perennial flowering plant. They come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, purple, and white. Heucheras bloom in late spring and summer, and they add a splash of color to the garden.
• Iris: Irises are a type of perennial flowering plant that comes in a variety of colors and shapes. They bloom in early summer, and they add a touch of elegance to the garden.
• Daylilies: Daylilies are a type of perennial flowering plant that blooms in late spring and summer. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, and red. Daylilies add a bright spot of color to the garden.

How far apart should hostas be planted?

• Hostas should be planted about 2-3 feet apart. This will give them enough space to grow and spread without crowding each other.

How much sun do hostas need?

• Hostas are shade-loving plants that can tolerate a wide range of conditions, but they do best in partial shade. Full sun can scorch their leaves, while too much shade can cause them to grow leggy and produce fewer flowers.

How much water do hostas need?

• Hostas need regular watering, but they should not be overwatered. Water them deeply once or twice a week, and make sure the soil is moist but not soggy.

How do I care for hostas?

• Hostas are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you can do to keep them healthy and looking their best:
• Water them regularly, but do not overwater them.
• Fertilize them once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
• Mulch around them to help retain moisture and protect the roots from the cold.
• Divide them every few years to keep them from getting too crowded.

What are the most common problems with hostas?

• The most common problems with hostas include:
• Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
• Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can eat the leaves of hostas, leaving behind unsightly holes. They can be controlled with a slug and snail bait.
• Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of hostas. They can be controlled with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

How do I propagate hostas?

• Hostas can be propagated by division, stem cuttings, or leaf cuttings.
• To divide hostas, dig up the plant in early spring or fall and carefully divide it into several smaller clumps. Replant the clumps in a new location.
• To take stem cuttings, cut a 4-6 inch stem from a healthy plant in early summer. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a pot of moist potting soil and keep it in a warm, sunny location.
• To take leaf cuttings, remove a healthy leaf from a hosta plant in early summer. Cut the leaf into 2-3 inch pieces and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the leaf pieces in a pot of moist potting soil and keep them in a warm, sunny location.

Where can I buy hostas?

• Hostas can be purchased at garden centers, nurseries, and online retailers.

  there are many different plants that can be paired with hostas. The best plants to choose will depend on the specific conditions in your garden, such as the amount of sunlight, moisture, and soil type. By considering these factors, you can create a beautiful and harmonious landscape that features hostas and their companion plants.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember when choosing plants to pair with hostas:

• Hostas prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
• When choosing companion plants, consider the size, shape, and color of the hostas.
• Avoid plants that will compete with hostas for water or nutrients.
• Experiment with different combinations of plants to create a unique and beautiful landscape.