Plant Guide: Hostas for Shade Beds That Look Finished

Hostas are shade-bed workhorses: bold leaves, reliable clumps, and endless size and color combinations. They shine under trees and on the north side of homes where lawns struggle.

Plant in amended soil with steady moisture, and mulch to reduce mud splash and weeds. Morning sun is fine for many varieties; hot afternoon sun can scorch leaves. Slugs and deer are the usual pests — plan accordingly.

Mass fewer varieties for a designed look instead of collecting one of everything. Division every few years keeps clumps vigorous.