Gardeners like me cherish hostas for their lush foliage and low-maintenance nature. When they grow healthily, they are one of my favorites. However, when these shade-loving perennials fail to thrive, it can be frustrating. 

    This guide covers the most common problems affecting hostas, from critter damage to viral infections. Understanding what causes stunted or distorted hostas will help you understand the hosta’s growth and nurse your plants back to health.


    Overview

    Hostas are a popular shade-loving perennial, but sometimes these plants fail to thrive. If your hostas were once healthy but now have stunted or distorted growth, it could be signs of:

    • Critter damage
    • Viral infection
    • Insufficient winter dormancy
    • Late spring freeze damage

    Understanding the potential causes will help you get your hostas back on track.


    Critter Damage

    Voles, mice, and other critters may nibble on hosta roots and stems. This disturbance can stunt the plant’s growth for the season. Check for signs of tunnels, droppings, or chew marks around the base of affected hostas. Traps and baits can help control critter populations. Sheltering the roots with hardware cloth also prevents access.

    deer grazing on hosta plant
    Canva

    Hosta Virus X

    This viral infection causes mottling and distorted growth. Leaves may appear puckered, twisted, and irregular. The variety ‘Patriot’ is especially prone to virus X. To limit spread, remove and destroy infected plants. Sterilize tools after working around affected hostas. Leafhoppers can also transmit the virus.


    Insufficient Winter Dormancy

    Hostas require a minimum of six weeks of temperatures below 40°F to go dormant. Regions with warmer climates may not provide this environment, resulting in delayed spring emergence, stunted growth, or even plant death.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    In my experience, using shade cloth or mulch to promote cooler soil temperatures in winter helps your hostas thrive. Relocating pots to a cooler spot also helps.

    Freeze Damage

    Late spring freezes can damage tender new hosta growth. Leaves may turn mushy and translucent from freeze burn. Cut back any damaged foliage to allow for fresh leaf emergence. Avoid early-season fertilization, which stimulates growth before the frost risk has passed. Covering plants during cold snaps prevents freeze injury.


    So, Is There a Cure for My Sick Hostas?

    The good news is that stressed hostas often rebound and resume normal growth. Simply fixing the underlying issue, whether it’s critters, viruses, or insufficient dormancy, will allow most varieties to recover. Severely damaged plants can be divided and replanted. With extra care and protection, your hostas can once again be the healthy, vibrant foundation of your shade garden.


    FAQs About Hosta Problems

    How do I know if my hostas have a virus?

    Hosta Virus X causes distorted, mottled leaves. Plants fail to thrive and have stunted growth. Removing affected plants is key, as the virus spreads readily.


    Should I cut back hostas with freeze damage?

    Yes, prune any mushy, damaged leaves to improve appearance and encourage new growth. Avoid early fertilizing and uncover plants during cold snaps.


    Do hostas need winter protection?

    In warmer zones, hostas likely need extra shade/mulch to ensure sufficient winter chill time. Relocating pots or using covers also helps.


    How do I keep voles from eating my hosta roots?

    Block access by sinking hardware cloth or wire mesh into the ground around plants. Traps and baits also reduce vole populations. Be sure to clean up fallen seed pods that attract them.


    When should I divide hostas?

    The best time is in early spring as growth resumes or autumn, about one month before the first frost. Avoid dividing in summer when dormant.


    How long do hostas live?

    Hostas are long-lived perennials when grown in the appropriate location. Individual plants can thrive for decades or longer before needing division. With proper care, hostas can grace your garden for many years.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Coty Perry

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Coty Perry is a lawn and garden writer for Today’s Homeowner. He focuses on providing homeowners with actionable tips that relate to the “Average Joe” who is looking to achieve a healthier and greener lawn. When he isn’t writing he can almost always be found coaching youth football or on some trail in Pennsylvania in search of the next greatest fishing hole.

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    Andrew Foligno

    Andrew Foligno is an editor for Today’s Homeowner, with over 6 years of experience working in digital marketing. He started his career as a content writer at an agency, covering industries such as HVAC, plumbing, painting, lawn care, and more. Soon, he was promoted to an editor position where he oversaw a team of writers before moving on to other facets of digital marketing. When he isn’t working, Andrew enjoys going to the gym to be active, as well as going to the movies to unwind.

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