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Gardeners’ Forum: “Help Hosta won't grow”

• Help Hosta won't grow

  Posted by Denise MacDonald on Wednesday, October 17, 2001 12:56 am ADT

  I don't know what I am doing wrong I have some in sun and shade, but they don't want to grow for me.Two are golden(maybe they stay small?)they are about three years old and they look like I just bought them this year!This year I gave a piece to a friend and her hosta is four times mine!I've try compost,mulch,tea.HELP ME Thanks

  • re: Help Hosta won't grow

    Posted by Walt on Thursday, October 18, 2001 11:49 am ADT

    Don't give up hope Denise! Look on the bright side, at least they're not dead yet! I suspect you may have a problem with your soil. If it is too sandy, the moisture will wick away too quickly...before the roots have a chance to absorb enough for growth. If this is the case, I'd suggest digging some peat moss in around the plants. Another possible cause...you have planted your hostas too deep. As is the case with peonies, the crowns of your hostas should be just below the soil. Don't be overly concerned about them freezing in winter, a bit of mulch in the fall and a good snowcover in winter will protect them just fine. If all else fails, move them to a new location in the garden...try planting them in containers...or give the rest of them to friends and try petunias. Just kidding! Good Luck and Happy Gardening!

  • re: Help Hosta won't grow

    Posted by Lois on Thursday, November 15, 2001 3:40 pm AST

    Usually, with hostas they do not grow because they are too dry. Improve the soil, like previously suggested and mulch with shredded bark or compost. This should help!