Hosta Sum and Substance: The Ultimate Guide

If you're a fan of gardening, then hostas are likely already on your radar. These leafy perennials are a popular choice for gardeners everywhere, thanks to their attractive foliage, ease of care, and adaptability to various growing conditions. And if you're looking for the ultimate hosta variety, look no further than Sum and Substance.

What is Hosta Sum and Substance?

Hosta Sum and Substance is one of the largest hosta varieties available. It's known for its massive leaves that can grow up to two feet in length and width, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden. This variety was first introduced in 2000 by hybridizer Kevin Vaughn and has quickly become a favorite among gardeners.

The Appearance of Hosta Sum and Substance

As mentioned, the most notable feature of Hosta Sum and Substance is its large leaves. They are a bright shade of chartreuse and have a slightly glossy finish, which adds to their appeal. The leaves are also thick and heavily textured, giving them a sturdy, almost leathery feel. In the summer, the plant produces tall flower stalks that bear white or lavender blooms.

Leaf Size and Shape

The leaves of Hosta Sum and Substance are some of the largest you'll find in the hosta family. They can grow up to two feet long and wide, though the average size is more like one to one and a half feet. The shape of the leaves is broadly ovate, with a pointed tip and smooth edges.

Leaf Color

The color of Hosta Sum and Substance leaves is a bright chartreuse, which is a yellow-green shade. The color can vary slightly depending on the amount of sunlight the plant receives. In deep shade, the leaves may turn more of a lime green hue.

Caring for Hosta Sum and Substance

Despite its impressive size, Hosta Sum and Substance is a fairly low-maintenance plant. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy and thriving in your garden.

Soil Requirements

Hostas prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They also like slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy clay, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.

Light Requirements

Hostas are shade-loving plants, and Hosta Sum and Substance is no exception. It prefers partial to full shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to wilt.

Watering

Hostas like consistently moist soil, but they don't like to be waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

Feed your Hosta Sum and Substance twice a year, once in early spring and again in mid-summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Division

Every few years, you'll need to divide your Hosta Sum and Substance to keep it from becoming overcrowded. The best time to do this is in the spring, just as new growth is ing to emerge. Dig up the entire clump and separate it into smaller sections, each with its own roots and leaves.

Companion Plants for Hosta Sum and Substance

Hosta Sum and Substance is a great addition to any shade garden, but it's even better when paired with complementary plants. Here are some ideas for companion plants that will help bring out the best in your hosta.

Ferns

Ferns are a classic companion plant for hostas, thanks to their similar growing requirements and foliage textures. Try pairing Hosta Sum and Substance with maidenhair fern or Japanese painted fern for a striking contrast of colors and shapes.

Heuchera

Heuchera, also known as coral bells, is another shade-loving perennial that pairs well with Hosta Sum and Substance. The colorful, often variegated leaves of heuchera provide a nice contrast to the chartreuse leaves of the hosta.

Astilbe

Astilbe is a flowering perennial that thrives in partial shade. Its feathery plumes of pink, white, or red flowers make a beautiful backdrop for Hosta Sum and Substance's large leaves.

Common Pests and Diseases

Like all plants, Hosta Sum and Substance is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues you may encounter and how to deal with them.

Slugs

Slugs love to munch on hosta leaves, and Hosta Sum and Substance is no exception. You can deter slugs by placing copper tape around the base of the plant or spraying the leaves with a soap-and-water solution.

Crown Rot

Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To prevent crown rot, make sure your soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes black or brown spots to appear on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.


Hosta Sum and Substance is a stunning variety of hosta that is sure to make a statement in your garden. With its large, chartreuse leaves and ease of care, it's a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. By following these tips for care and pairing it with complementary plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving shade garden.

FAQs

1. Can Hosta Sum and Substance grow in full sun?

No, Hosta Sum and Substance prefers partial to full shade and can be damaged by too much direct sunlight.

2. How often should I water my Hosta Sum and Substance?

Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Avoid getting water on the leaves.

3. When should I divide my Hosta Sum and Substance?

Divide your Hosta Sum and Substance every few years in the spring, just as new growth is ing to emerge.

4. What is the best way to deter slugs from eating my Hosta Sum and Substance?

You can deter slugs by placing copper tape around the base of the plant or spraying the leaves with a soap-and-water solution.

5. What are some good companion plants for Hosta Sum and Substance?

Ferns, heuchera, and astilbe are all good companion plants for Hosta Sum and Substance.