Hosta sieboldii var. alba

Hostas are planted in spring or autumn. Hostas thrive in deep, fertile, humus-rich, loose soil, preferably neutral to acid (at least low in limestone), and moist to wet throughout the year. Plant them in partial shade or dappled shade, and in a sheltered position away from strong winds.

Prepare a planting hole measuring 20cm (8in) x 20cm (8in) x 20cm (8in). If your soil is heavy, mix equal parts of compost with crumbled soil, partially fill the hole, and place your potted plant in a way that the top of the root ball is covered with 3cm (1in) of soil. Adding a slow-release fertilizer (such as bonemeal) will nourish your plant during its rooting period without the risk of burning. Make sure to position the collar well above ground level. Firm the soil and water generously to eliminate air pockets. If the weather is dry, you will need to water regularly for a few weeks to facilitate your plant's establishment. Also, water regularly during dry summers.

With their shared preference for moist environments, slugs and snails are never far from hostas. Even though blue or variegated hostas often have thicker and tougher foliage, which is less appetising to slugs, these plants still need protection from gastropods. Protect your Hostas by surrounding them with ferramol-based pellets (approved for Organic Agriculture), eggshells, coffee grounds, mulch, or any dry and rough natural substance that repels them. Hedgehogs are the gardener's best allies in the fight against gastropods because, unlike chickens, they do not dig up the soil or attack the lush green shoots of young plants. Finally, some plants have a repulsive odour for slugs, such as wormwood and garlic.