Fall Hosta Care: When and How to Cut Back for Winter
Autumn is here, and with it comes the task of caring for our hostas. These popular perennials need a bit of attention to ensure they're ready for winter and can thrive next year. Topping the fall garden jobs list is cutting back hostas, a crucial step in pest and disease prevention.
The ideal time to tackle this task is after the first hard frost, when hosta leaves start to wilt and turn brown. Using sharp, disinfected pruning shears, cut the entire leaf stalk down to within one to two inches above the crown of the plant. This not only makes the garden tidy but also helps prevent pests from taking refuge in the decaying foliage.
It's important to remove all dying leaves promptly and discard them, as this further reduces the risk of slugs and disease overwintering. While you're at it, you might also consider dividing your hostas, as early fall is an excellent time for this task.
By cutting back hostas in fall, we're setting them up for successful winter dormancy and a healthy growing season next year. Leaving a few healthy green leaves allows the plant to store and process vital energy for the coming season. So, let's make hostas a top priority in our fall garden jobs and give them the care they deserve.
