A little more green in the world ✳ 2,083 plants across 13 growing zones
worldthatgrows.
Ground Cover · Easy

How to Grow Hosta

Hosta spp.

Your complete guide to growing Hosta.

☀SunPartial shade (4-6 hours)
💧Water1 inch per week, consistent moisture preferred
🗺Zones3–9
📏Height4-30 inches
Hosta📷 Wikimedia Commons

When to Plant Hosta

Planting windows vary by USDA hardiness zone. Look up yours by ZIP code.

ZoneStart IndoorsDirect SowHarvest
Zone 3 — — —
Zone 4 — — —
Zone 5 — — —
Zone 6 — — —
Zone 7 — — —
Zone 8 — — —
Zone 9 — — —

Companion Plants for Hosta

✓ Good companions

Astilbe

Both thrive in shade and moist soil, complementary textures and bloom times

Begonia

Shade-loving with similar water needs, flowers add color above hosta foliage

Caladium

Both prefer shade and consistent moisture, colorful leaves create striking contrast

Ferns

Natural woodland companions with similar shade and moisture requirements

Heuchera

Similar growing conditions, colorful foliage complements hosta leaves year-round

Impatiens

Thrives in shade with consistent moisture, provides continuous color

Japanese Painted Fern

Silver fronds complement hosta leaves, both prefer partial to full shade

Lungwort

Early spring blooms before hostas emerge, similar shade and soil preferences

✗ Keep away from

Black Walnut

Produces juglone toxin that causes hosta leaves to yellow and plants to decline

Crown Imperial

Heavy feeder that competes for nutrients, can inhibit hosta growth in same area

Mint

Aggressive spreading can overwhelm hosta crowns and compete for nutrients

Notes from the garden

A greener inbox, occasionally.

Seasonal planting ideas, useful tips and a little inspiration. No weeds.