How do I winterize hosta?
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Dbu8292844
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I have seen mixed opinions on when to remove old hosta foliage. We live in north central WI. Is it better to remove dead leaves in the fall to prevent disease or in the spring so there is winter protection?
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Wait for the leaves to turn to mush and then just pull off and discard - so easy that way. I used to cut them down and last year I didn't get a chance and they turned to mush and easily discarded.
Hi. If you want to do a fall clean up, then cut them now and put down fresh mulch. If spring's the time you do the garden clean and fresh look then wait. Happy gardening!
Whether you take them off now, or wait until spring is up to you. I have removed mine only once and they come up each year better than ever. I leave mine as another layer of protection, with leaves on top, only removing the flower stalks, and clean them up in the spring when I remove the leaf layer. As long as your Hostas are healthy, you shouldn't have a problem with disease transmission. I have a neighbor that cuts hers down and doesn't cover them with anything and they come back every year.
I have Hostas in zone 6, and do the same thing Kathy does. Here is a video that might help.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acPfHkYxQp4
Same practice in SW PA. No need to remove leaves, unless you've had a problem with slugs (that's their preferred hiding place). If so, trim back the leaves to keep them off the ground. Place diatomaceous earth around perimeter, next year.