Hosta
Late Spring through Fall Finish. 1 ppp for all pot sizes. Plant either in spring or early to mid summer. Late summer and fall planting often does not allow for sufficient root establishment.
No pinching or growth regulators needed.
General pest and disease practices as listed in notes. Slugs can be problematic during the growing season. Mice and voles can be an issue during winter months in over-wintering structures. Under normal conditions with good cultural practices Hosta is a trouble free crop.
-The top of the liner should be planted 1/4 of an inch below the soil level. The liner must be covered by soil or water management becomes problematic.
-Larger than one gallon container sizes will generally require bulking one year and sales the next year.
-Hostas vary greatly in size and vigor and you should be sure to choose appropriately for your target finish market and container size. If you are targeting 2 gallon or larger size, Empress Wu, Hudson Bay and Seducer will be the best choices. Most Hostas will work with 1 gallon or smaller containers.
-A minimum of 30% shade should be provided in the late spring and throughout summer.
-Vernalization requirements vary somewhat for each variety, however, in general 40 to 45 degrees or less ADT for 8 to 12 weeks is sufficient.
-True leaf characteristics are expressed only with vernalization.
-Hostas being grown and/or bulked up when the days are naturally short (prior to April 15 or after August 15) should be grown under long days using photoperiodic lighting to keep them actively growing. Night interruption lighting will work.
-Hostas are chosen for foliage characteristics rather than flowering so flowers aren't necessary for sales.
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