How Close to Tree to Plant Hostas

Hostas are a popular choice for shaded areas in the garden, and they look especially beautiful when planted around the base of trees. However, not all trees are created equal and planting hostas too close to the trunk can cause problems. Here are some tips on how close to plant hostas to trees:

Consider the Size of the Tree

When deciding how close to plant hostas to trees, it's important to take the size of the tree into account. If the tree is small and doesn't have a wide spreading canopy, you can plant hostas closer to the trunk. However, if the tree is large and mature with a wide canopy, you'll need to plant your hostas further away to avoid competing with the tree's root system.

Think About Light and Water

Hostas are shade-loving plants, but they also need some light to thrive. If you plant them too close to the tree trunk, they may not get enough light and can become stunted. Additionally, trees absorb a lot of moisture from the soil, and planting hostas too close to the trunk can also mean they don't get enough water. It's important to find a balance between shade, light, and water when planting hostas around trees.

Avoid Crowding

Crowding can be a problem if you plant hostas too close to each other or to the tree. This can lead to competition for nutrients and water and can eventually cause the plants to die. To avoid crowding, leave enough space between each hosta and between the hostas and the tree trunk. As a general rule, plant hostas at least 12 inches away from the trunk and 18 inches apart from each other.

Consider the Type of Hosta

Not all hostas are created equal, and some are better suited to growing around trees than others. For example, smaller varieties like 'Mouse Ears' and 'Blue Mouse Ears' are excellent choices for planting close to the trunk of a tree, while larger varieties like 'Sum and Substance' and 'Empress Wu' should be planted further away. When selecting hostas for planting around trees, consider their growth habits and select plants that will thrive in the specific conditions of your garden.

Conclusion

Planting hostas around trees can add a beautiful and serene touch to your garden, but it's important to get the placement right. By considering the size of the tree, light and water requirements, spacing, and the type of hosta, you can create a lush and thriving landscape that will be the envy of your neighbors.