I posted this on the hosta forum too. I'm hoping someone can give me some real basic pointers for growing hostas in containers? I'm a newbie! Mainly, what to plant them in (type of potting soil), how often to water, fertilizing? I'm in zone 6a, will they be okay over the winter outside? Can I leave them in the containers indefinitely? or will I eventually need to move them into the ground? Are there some hostas that will do better in containers?
If you have the answers to the above or can lead me to a website with more information, I'd really appreciate it.
Thank you.
Jen
?'s about growing hostas in containers
Jen
I have seen hostas on containers before. Just use a pot big enough for the size of hosta you are planting. I would use a time released fertilizer like Osmocote since as you probably know the soil gets leached out fast from the frequent watering you have to do with planters. I would think any good quality potting soil would be fine.
Although I don't know if you can leave them out all winter in Z6 (vs. putting it garage etc.). Its possible you could but I would try to find out from some knowledgable hosta person.
Jen,
I've had 2 hostas growing in large pots for 4 or 5 years, now and they're doing great. They pop up every spring at about the same time as the one's in the garden.
I have them in the artificial clay pots (polypropylene, I think) to give them more insulation and avoid broken pots. But I leave them out all winter in zone 6a without any problems.
As Cottage Rose suggests, I also use Osmocote.
A lady down the street has had hosta growing in her half barrels for years, they look great!
Thanks for the info guys. I went a tad bit overboard on the hosta co-op and was worried about finding a place for them. I did in fact get them all in the ground, but I think I would like to still try a few in the containers.
Thanks for all you help!
Jen