
Should you get your hostas ready for the onslaught of winter? Maybe...or maybe not!!
, by Glenn Wilson, 2 min reading time
, by Glenn Wilson, 2 min reading time
How are you preparing your hosta collection for the Canadian winter? Is it best to just go in and sit by the fireplace when old man winter comes knocking or should you bundle up and head out to the garden to put the hostas to bed for the winter?
As the vibrant colours of fall fade and the temperatures drop, it's time to start thinking about how to prepare your beloved hostas for the winter months ahead. Hostas, with their lush foliage and beautiful blooms, are a staple in many shade gardens. But what should you do to ensure they survive the winter and return strong in the spring?
One of the common questions among gardeners is whether hostas die back in winter. The answer is yes, hostas do die back in winter. The foliage will turn yellow and eventually wither away as the plant goes dormant for the winter. But fear not; this is a natural process, and your hostas will return to life when the weather warms up.
When preparing your hostas for winter, differing opinions exist on whether you should cut back the foliage. Some gardeners prefer to leave the foliage as is, protecting the plant's crown. Others choose to cut back the foliage to ground level once it has died. If you decide to cut back your hostas, do so after the first frost to avoid any new growth that the cold may damage.
Another critical aspect of hosta winter care is mulching. Mulching can help protect the plant's roots from extreme temperature fluctuations and provide some insulation during the winter months. If you choose to mulch your hostas, wait until after the ground has frozen to prevent rodents from making a cozy home in the mulch.
On the other hand, some gardeners prefer to leave their hostas alone during the winter months. Hostas are hardy plants and can withstand cold temperatures without much fuss. If you live in a milder climate or if your hostas are well-established, you may skip the cutting back and mulching and let nature take its course.
Ultimately, the best approach to hosta winter care will depend on your specific climate, the health of your plants, and your personal preference. Whether you choose to cut back your hostas, mulch them, or leave them be, the most important thing is ensuring they are well-hydrated in the winter months. So give your hostas a good drink before the first frost and let them rest until spring.