How to Deal with Big Hostas: Tips and Tricks

Hostas are a popular choice among gardeners because of their beautiful foliage and ease of maintenance. However, sometimes these plants can grow too big and become unmanageable. If you're struggling with big hostas in your garden, don't worry - there are simple steps you can take to keep them under control.

Understanding Hostas

Before we dive into the tips and tricks for dealing with big hostas, it's important to understand a bit about these plants. Hostas are shade-loving perennials that come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. They typically prefer moist, well-drained soil and thrive in USDA planting zones 3-9. While they are generally low-maintenance, hostas can become quite large if left unchecked. This can lead to overcrowding, disease, and problems with pests.

Signs Your Hostas are Too Big

So how do you know if your hostas are too big? Here are some signs to look out for:

Overcrowding

If your hostas are taking up too much space in your garden bed or competing with other plants, then they're probably too big.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overgrowth, as the plant may not be getting enough nutrients or water to sustain its size.

Drooping Leaves

If your hosta's leaves are drooping or wilting, this could be a sign of root rot or waterlogged soil, which can be caused by an overgrown plant.

Tips for Dealing with Big Hostas

Now that you know how to spot an overgrown hosta, let's look at some tips for keeping them under control.

Divide and Conquer

One of the easiest ways to deal with big hostas is to divide them. This involves digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections, each with its own roots and foliage. By dividing your hosta, you can create more space in your garden bed and prevent overcrowding.

Prune Regularly

Regular pruning is essential for keeping your hostas at a manageable size. Use sharp scissors or shears to remove any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as any flowers or seed pods. You can also trim back the outer edges of the plant to prevent it from spreading too far.

Control Watering

Overwatering can cause hostas to become too big and lead to root rot. Make sure to water your hostas only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid getting the foliage wet.

Choose the Right Location

Hostas prefer shade or partial shade, so make sure to plant them in an area that gets limited direct sunlight. They also require well-drained soil, so avoid planting them in areas that are prone to standing water.

Use Fertilizer Sparingly

While fertilizer can help your hostas grow, using too much can cause them to become too big too quickly. Use a slow-release fertilizer sparingly, and make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Common Problems with Big Hostas

Despite your best efforts, big hostas can still run into problems. Here are some common issues and how to deal with them.

Pests

Big hostas are more susceptible to pest infestations, such as slugs and snails. Use organic pest control methods, such as diatomaceous earth or beer traps, to keep them at bay.

Disease

Overgrown hostas can also be more prone to disease, such as powdery mildew or crown rot. Make sure to remove any infected foliage immediately, and avoid overwatering and over-fertilizing.

Overcrowding

If your hostas are still overcrowding your garden bed even after you've divided them, consider moving some of them to a new location or giving them away to friends or family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I prune my hostas in the fall?

A: Yes, you can prune your hostas in the fall after they have finished blooming. However, make sure to leave some foliage intact so that the plant can continue to photosynthesize and store energy for winter.

Q: How often should I divide my hostas?

A: Hostas can be divided every 3-5 years, depending on how quickly they grow and how crowded they become. If you notice that your hostas are taking up too much space or becoming too big, it may be time to divide them.

Q: Should I mulch around my hostas?

A: Yes, mulching can help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing around your hostas. Make sure to use a light layer of mulch (no more than 2-3 inches) and avoid getting it too close to the base of the plant, as this can cause rotting.

Q: How do I know if my hosta needs more water?

A: Check the soil around your hosta - if it feels dry to the touch, then it's time to water. However, make sure not to overwater your hosta, as this can lead to root rot.

Q: Are there any companion plants that work well with hostas?

A: Yes, there are many companion plants that pair well with hostas, such as ferns, heucheras, and astilbes. These plants all prefer similar growing conditions and can help create a beautiful and cohesive garden bed.



In big hostas don't have to be a problem if you know how to deal with them properly. By dividing, pruning, controlling watering, choosing the right location, using fertilizer sparingly, and addressing common problems, you can keep your hostas healthy and manageable. Remember to pay attention to signs of overgrowth and take action before they become too big to handle.