Updated May 14, 2008

How much sun?

Gardeners tend to look at hostas as a shade perennial. In truth they are shade tolerant, and will not thrive if grown in deep shade. All hostas require some sunlight to photosynthesize. Hostas grow best with morning sun and filtered afternoon shade. And, if you do not have a location with morning sun, late afternoon sun may be an alternative. Some cultivars may even tolerate some afternoon sun. Gold and green types and many variegated varieties need some sun to develop their vibrant leaf color.

 

Simple rules to follow…

· In general, yellow/gold hostas need a sunny location to keep their yellow/gold color vibrant. Otherwise, the yellow/gold will fade to chartreuse or green.

· Similarly, fragrant hostas need exposure to sun to develop their flowers.

· Remember, full sun in the morning will not be as intense as full sun at mid-afternoon. Although the yellow/gold hostas require some sun they do not like to bake in the sun. If your hostas  site is extremely hot or dry, you will need to keep them well watered.

· Blue hostas require the most protection from the sun. This is because the blue color of the leaf is actually a waxy coating which in hot sun will melt and expose the green underneath.

· The thicker the substance of the leaf, the more sun tolerant the plant. The thinner the leaf, the less sun.

Hostas with full sun potential offered by our nursery:

August Moon, Sunpower, Regal Splendor, H plantaginea, H plantaginea Aphrodite, Fried Green Tomatoes, Guacamole, H undulate Albomarginata, and Minuteman.

Hostas with more than usual  sun tolerance, but not full sun offered by our nursery:

Blue Angel and Halycon

 

 

 

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