Hostas are the ultimate shade-loving plants, ideal for bringing life to the base of trees.
Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a seasoned green thumb, learn how to plant and maintain hostas around your trees for a lush, vibrant garden!
The Best Hosta Varieties for Your Tree Base Garden
Not sure which hostas to plant? Here are some top picks for different needs:
Small to Medium Hostas (Perfect for Tight Spaces)
- ‘Blue Mouse Ears’
- Botanical Name: Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’
- Growing Zones: 3–9
- Features: A charming, compact hosta with blue-green leaves that add a pop of color to smaller spaces.
- ‘Mouse Trap’
- Botanical Name: Hosta ‘Mouse Trap’
- Growing Zones: 3–9
- Features: A heart-shaped variety that turns from yellowish to blue as it matures, perfect for adding contrast under trees.
Large Hostas (For a Bold Look)
- ‘Sum and Substance’
- Botanical Name: Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’
- Growing Zones: 4–9
- Features: Known for its massive, broad leaves that provide a striking, tropical look. It’s perfect for bold landscaping.
- ‘June’
- Botanical Name: Hosta ‘June’
- Growing Zones: 3–9
- Features: Stunning blue-green leaves with yellow edges that turn golden as the season progresses, offering a vibrant splash of color in the shade.
Varieties with Beautiful Foliage for Added Color
- ‘Patriot’
- Botanical Name: Hosta ‘Patriot’
- Growing Zones: 3–9
- Features: Bright green leaves with striking white margins that stand out beautifully, even in shaded areas.
- ‘Halcyon’
- Botanical Name: Hosta ‘Halcyon’
- Growing Zones: 3–9
- Features: Cool-toned blue leaves that create a serene, refreshing look in any shaded garden space.
How to Create Your Hosta Tree Base Garden
Where to Plant Hostas Around Trees
Start by selecting the perfect spot for your hostas.
These plants thrive in partial to full shade, making them a natural fit under the canopy of trees.
Look for areas where the tree lets in dappled sunlight, providing the perfect balance of light and shade for healthy hosta growth.
- Tip: If your tree has a thick canopy, opt for hostas that tolerate deep shade, like ‘Krossa Regal’ or ‘Blue Angel’.
How to Avoid Damaging Tree Roots
When planting hostas, avoid digging too deeply, as you don’t want to damage the tree’s roots.
Trees often have shallow surface roots, so use a small shovel or hand trowel and dig around them gently.
- Pro Tip: Instead of digging a large hole, try creating small pockets for the hostas in the soil to avoid disturbing the tree’s root system.
Preparing the Ground for Healthy Hostas
The soil around tree bases can sometimes be compacted and dry, which isn’t ideal for hostas.
To encourage lush growth, amend the soil by adding compost or organic matter.
This will improve drainage and moisture retention, giving your hostas the nutrients they need to thrive.
- Tip: A light layer of organic mulch can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool for the hosta roots.
Protecting the Roots of Both the Tree and Hostas
A generous layer of mulch will help keep the soil around your tree base moist and prevent weed growth.
However, be careful not to pile mulch directly against the tree trunk, as this can lead to rot.
Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk while spreading it around the base of the tree and hostas.
- Pro Tip: Use shredded leaves or bark mulch for a natural look that complements the surroundings.
Solving Common Problems When Planting Hostas Around Trees
While hostas are generally low-maintenance, there are a few challenges to consider when planting them around tree bases.
1. Tree Roots Competing for Water & Nutrients
Tree roots can absorb a lot of water and nutrients, leaving your hostas struggling.
In times of dry weather, make sure to water your hostas deeply. You may also need to supplement with fertilizer to ensure they get enough nutrition.
2. Shallow Soil
Some trees have roots that stay near the surface, making it tricky to plant.
In this case, consider using raised beds or simply layering good-quality soil over the existing soil. Just be mindful not to bury the tree roots too deeply.
3. Deer & Slug Protection
Hostas are a favorite snack for slugs and deer! Protect your hostas by sprinkling crushed eggshells around the base to deter slugs.
For deer, consider using organic repellents or placing a mesh net around the area.
Perfect Pairings for Hostas Around Trees
Hostas look fantastic with other shade-loving plants. Consider pairing them with:
- Ferns: Soft, delicate fronds add contrast to the bold foliage of hostas.
- Astilbes: These bring beautiful, airy blooms in the shade.
- Heucheras (Coral Bells): Their colorful foliage adds a pop of color to the shade.
- Bleeding Hearts: Their romantic, heart-shaped flowers make them a lovely contrast to hostas.
For more companion plants that grow well with hostas read our full article.
Design Ideas To Create a Stunning Tree Base Garden
When it comes to planting hostas around a tree, you can get creative with your design!
Here are a few fun ideas:
- Circle Arrangement: Plant hostas in a neat, circular shape around the tree for a clean, symmetrical look.
- Mixed Heights: Choose different hosta varieties with varying leaf shapes, sizes, and colors. This adds dimension and makes the space more dynamic.
- Groundcover Options: If you want to create a polished, cohesive look, add low-growing plants or more mulch between hostas for a seamless groundcover effect.
Maintaining Your Tree Base Hosta Garden
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells.
- Prune any damaged leaves to keep your hostas looking their best.
- Be patient! Hostas grow slowly, but they’ll reward you with years of beauty under your trees.
