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How to Grow Hosta

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Hosta (Hosta spp.)

Get Your Exact Hosta Planting Dates

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Ready to grow Hosta?

Order a container-grown or bare-root plant from trusted nurseries.

Amazon True Leaf Live Plant

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Supplies You'll Need

Flower Garden Soil Pruning Shears Garden Gloves Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Hosta spp.
Category flower
Type Bare-root perennial
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Shade to Part Shade

Water

Regular

Spacing

24" apart

Height

12-24"

Ready to Grow Hosta?

Buy healthy nursery plants from trusted suppliers.

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Companion Planting Guide for Hosta

Discover which plants grow well with Hosta and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Divide clumps in early spring as the "eyes" emerge or in early fall — every few years keeps plants vigorous.

Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 8 plants of Hosta. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Hosta Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Hosta Planting Calendar by State

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Other Plants

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Hosta? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Hosta in early spring, 0 weeks before your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

Should I start Hosta indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Hosta isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Hosta need? +

Hosta requires shade to part shade to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Hosta? +

Space Hosta plants 24 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Hosta need? +

Hosta has regular water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Hosta? +

Hosta is not typically propagated by seed. Divide clumps in early spring as the "eyes" emerge or in early fall — every few years keeps plants vigorous.

About Hosta

The backbone of the shade garden, grown for bold foliage from blue-gray to chartreuse (the summer flower scapes are a bonus). Plant bare-root or potted divisions in spring or early fall.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.