Tootie Mae Hosta

Upon Arrival:

It is very important to plant as soon as possible after you receive them. If it is necessary to store them for a short time before planting them, open the plastic bags. If the roots appear dry, soak them for a few hours in warm water. Store in slightly moist peat moss in a cold, but not freezing location until you can plant. They can also be placed in pots of soil if planting will be delayed for more than 2 weeks. Use any peat-based potting soil and pots with drainage holes.

Soak bare-root perennials in water for a few hours before planting. Unless otherwise specified, bare-root perennials are usually planted with the crown (where the shoots meet the roots) an inch below the soil surface. Firm soil gently to eliminate air pockets and water in well. Mark the area clearly since it may be a while before the plant shows itself.

Planting:

Grow in well-drained, moist soil, in light to full shade. Plant with the crown (where the shoots meet the roots) an inch below the soil surface. Space 2-3 ft. apart and covering roots to a depth where growing tips are at soil surface and surrounding the crown. Firm soil gently to eliminate air pockets and water in well. Mark the area clearly since it may be a while before the plant shows itself.

Growing:

Hostas like plenty of moisture and need extra water during hot, dry spells. A 2" layer of mulch (compost or shredded bark) is beneficial taking care not to apply to close to the base of the plant but surrounding the foliage as it matures. Hosta take 2-4 years to become established and reach their full size after planting. Can be divided in spring or fall and will greatly benefit from being divided every 3-4 years.