Let me tell you one thing: gardens wouldn’t be the same without hostas and it’s no wonder they’ve earned a spot in the hearts of gardeners everywhere.
Their lush foliage is the main draw, offering texture and color without the fuss.
But here’s the twist – hostas don’t just please gardeners; they’ve also caught the eye of hummingbirds. You might think you know them, but there’s more to these plants than meets the eye!
It’s Not All About The Leaves!
It’s time to rethink that habit of snipping off hosta flowers! While the leaves certainly take center stage, it’s the blossoms that truly make hostas a hummingbird favorite.
Shocking, right? Well, the tubular-shaped flowers are actually rich in nectar and we all know hummingbirds can’t resist this delicious drink.
Let’s just say that hosta blooms are a hummingbird’s idea of paradise, making them the perfect plant to attract these dazzling little creatures.
Where To Plant Hostas?
So, you’re thinking about adding hostas to your garden, but where should you plant them to make the most of their beauty?
First things first: your garden needs to meet a few key criteria. Hostas thrive best in USDA zones 3-9, where they can enjoy a winter chill to recharge for the next growing season.
Now, look for a shady spot with nutrient-rich and well-draining soil. Some hosta varieties are more tolerant of sunny conditions, but none like full sun.
That’s it!! You’ll have the perfect foundation for these gorgeous, low-maintenance plants to flourish.
Follow These Tips To Get Your Hostas To Thrive
Ready to take your hostas to the next level? Start by dividing them every few years to ensure healthy growth and keep them looking their best.
Some growers don’t divide their hostas at all, but I figured out they’ve been growing better after I started using this technique.
Hostas are known for being drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is still a must. I ensure an inch of water per week and it works perfectly!
A nice mulch blanket around the base helps conserve moisture and reduce weed competition.
Just watch out for the local wildlife! Deer and slugs can turn your hostas into their personal snack bar!
Use Hostas To Make A Hummingbird Shade Garden
Creating a hummingbird shade garden is easy when you use hostas as the backbone of your design. They bloom in late spring or early summer with lovely, bell-shaped flowers in shades of white, lavender, or pale pink.
However, as you may already know, hummingbirds are particularly drawn to the color red. Some gardeners tie red or orange ribbons around their trees to attract these birds, but in my opinion, the best approach is to plant red flowers directly.
You’ll want to be selective about which red flowers you choose, as not every red bloom pairs well with hostas. My top pick is Red Fanal astilbes, which thrive in zones 4 through 8.
You can also add some flair by incorporating plants with red leaves and flowers, like Heucheras (also known as coral bells). Hardy in zones 4 through 9, they make a fantastic addition to your shade garden alongside hostas!
Whether for the leaves or the blooms, hostas are sure to steal your heart – and attract a few hummingbirds along the way!