Hosta

Question

What to do after 1st frost

Answer 1

Thin hosta leaves "melt" with the first frost. Thicker leaves will last longer. Some hosta leaves become a lovely yellow in fall. Eventually, hosta leaves become unsightly and should be cut off at ground level. They are a good addition to the compost pile. Chopping the leaves a bit will speed decomposition. It is up to you when to cut off the leaves in fall. If it is a new planting, mark the plants location. They are not among the first plants that emerge in spring. If your winters are harsh, zone 4 or colder, mulch over the plant with pine boughs, straw, chopped leaves or wood mulch - up to 3-4 inches. Remember to pull mulch back in spring to expose the crown.