Hostas in pots over winter

Q: I have recently moved house and have acquired a small courtyard that doesn't get much sunshine. I have heard that hostas are well-suited to shade, so would like to grow some in pots to add color and vibrancy to the space.

Is there anything I need to know to ensure that they thrive?

A: You are correct in that hostas are excellent plants for shade.

When to divide hostas in pots

In fact, too much sunshine can cause the foliage of many varieties to scorch, particularly those with a bluer hue.

As long as you provide moist, nutrient-rich soil, and keep an eye out for pests, they are really easy to look after, and will come back year after year to show off their luscious leaves.

But there are a few extra tips to bear in mind for the very best container gardening results.

Top tips for growing hostas in containers

Planting

Choose a large container (18in in diameter or more) with drainage holes.

Plant your hosta at the same depth that it's planted in its original pot, into multipurpose compost. According to the Royal Horticultural Society, miniature varietie

what to do with hostas in pots over winter

how to care for potted hostas in the winter