10 Plants That Pair Perfectly with Hostas

Oleh Anonymous December 27, 2021 Post a Comment

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The Benefits of Pairing Plants with Hostas

Hostas are a popular choice for gardeners because of their attractive foliage and ease of maintenance. However, while hostas are beautiful on their own, pairing them with other plants can greatly enhance the overall aesthetic of your garden. Not only do companion plants add visual interest, but they can also provide contrasting colors and textures that complement the hosta leaves. Additionally, some plants can even help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects, making them an excellent addition to any garden.

Plants That Go Well with Hostas

If you're looking to pair plants with hostas, here are 10 options to consider:

1. Astilbe

Astilbe is a shade-loving plant that produces feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. When planted alongside hostas, the delicate blooms provide a lovely contrast to the bold texture of the hosta leaves.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another excellent option for pairing with hostas. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and their soft fronds create a beautiful backdrop for the larger hosta leaves. Some ferns, like Japanese painted ferns and lady ferns, also have colorful foliage that can add interest to your garden.

3. Heuchera

Also known as coral bells, heuchera is a perennial plant that produces small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and purple. The foliage comes in a range of colors, including green, purple, and silver, making it a versatile choice for pairing with hostas.

4. Bleeding Heart

Bleeding heart is a classic shade plant that produces delicate heart-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white. When planted alongside hostas, the airy blooms add a touch of whimsy to the garden.

5. Hakonechloa

Hakonechloa, or Japanese forest grass, is a low-growing ornamental grass with cascading blades that create a soft, flowing effect. When paired with hostas, the two plants create a beautiful contrast between the bold texture of the hosta leaves and the delicate, flowing blades of the hakonechloa.

6. Solomon's Seal

Solomon's seal is a woodland plant that produces arching stems of small, bell-shaped flowers. The foliage is also attractive, with oval-shaped leaves that provide a nice backdrop for the larger hosta leaves.

7. Tiarella

Tiarella, also known as foamflower, is a low-growing plant that produces delicate sprays of tiny flowers in shades of pink and white. The foliage is also attractive, with lobed leaves that resemble those of a miniature maple tree.

8. Lungwort

Lungwort is a shade-loving perennial that produces clusters of pink or blue flowers in early spring. The foliage is also attractive, with spotted leaves that provide a nice contrast to the solid color of the hosta leaves.

9. Coral Bells

Coral bells are another excellent choice for pairing with hostas. They come in a variety of colors, including green, purple, and silver, and produce delicate sprays of flowers in shades of pink, red, and white.

10. Japanese Anemone

Japanese anemone is a late-blooming perennial that produces large, showy flowers in shades of pink and white. The foliage is also attractive, with lobed leaves that provide a nice backdrop for the larger hosta leaves.

How to Pair Plants with Hostas

When pairing plants with hostas, it's important to consider the size and shape of both plants. You don't want one plant to overwhelm the other, or to have plants that clash in terms of color or texture. Here are some tips for successfully pairing plants with hostas:

1. Consider the Size of Your Garden

If you have a small garden, you may want to stick with just one or two companion plants to avoid overcrowding. If you have a larger garden, you can experiment with more combinations.

2. Choose Plants with Similar Growing Conditions

Hostas prefer shady, moist conditions, so it's important to choose companion plants that have similar growing requirements. Avoid pairing hostas with sun-loving plants, as they will struggle to thrive in the same environment.

3. Mix Up Colors and Textures

When pairing plants with hostas, aim for a mix of colors and textures. This will create visual interest and prevent your garden from looking too monochromatic. For example, pair a bold, textured hosta with a delicate, airy fern.

4. Create Contrast

Contrast is key when pairing plants with hostas. Look for plants with contrasting colors, textures, and shapes to create a dynamic and visually appealing garden.

FAQs

Q: Can hostas be planted in full sun?

A: While hostas prefer shade, some varieties can tolerate a few hours of morning sun. Be sure to check the specific requirements for your hosta variety before planting in full sun.

Q: Do hostas need fertilizer?

A: Hostas benefit from regular fertilization, especially in the spring when they are actively growing. Use a slow-release fertilizer or apply liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Q: Are hostas deer-resistant?

A: While hostas are not completely deer-resistant, there are certain varieties that are less appealing to deer. Look for hostas with thicker leaves and avoid planting them near areas where deer are known to graze.

Q: How do I divide hostas?

A: Hostas can be divided in the spring or fall by carefully digging up the clump and separating it into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and a portion of the root system.

Q: How do I prevent slugs from eating my hostas?

A: Slugs are a common pest that love to feast on hostas. To prevent slug damage, try placing copper tape around the base of the plant or use a slug bait that is safe for pets and wildlife.