Hostas

Question

We set out 5 hostas several years ago in a shaded area. They were beautiful the first year. Now they come up but do not grow at all. The leaves are maybe 3-5 inches long. Several years ago, we also planted some Kimberly Queen ferns in this area. They do not come up any longer and I wondered if underground the ferns may be choking the hostas. Just wondered if you had an answer. Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

I suspect something is chewing on the roots of the plants. Hostas are hardy plants, so it will not hurt one to dig it up and take a look at the roots and see if you see damage. The pests would be voles, mice or even squirrels or chipmunks. If you see damage to teh roots or find burrows, you will need to take steps to get rid of these pests.