When is a good time to move hostas.

Gruntfuttock · Post by **Gruntfuttock** » Mar 14, 2007 10:11 pm

Now the eyes are showing, is it a good time to move hostas?

They looked good for two years, but last year they became too close together so I just want to spread them out a bit.

John · Post by **John** » Mar 14, 2007 10:27 pm

I think now would be perfect, before the leaves unfurl-- although hostas are very accomodating. As long as they are planted in time to establish before winter should work.

LucyGoose · Post by **LucyGoose** » Mar 14, 2007 10:27 pm

Hi Gruntfuttock!!

I would say now if the eyes are showing....I plan (hopfully to do the same thing here)....do it before they leaf out and get all grown and big....yep, spread them out and give them room!

Good Luck....

Rob · Post by **Rob** » Mar 15, 2007 5:27 am

Hostas are tough as nails, they can be moved almost anytime of the year (as long as the soil isn't frozen).
There is however an ideal time: early summer.
Hostas start with foliage growth (spring). After that, the rootsystem expands, to allow the plant to get enough food for the new foliage (summer).
The optimal time for transplanting is just before the major root growth starts. In this way the plant will develop its new root system in the new location: it will restart to grow immediately.

Love from the Hosta Mill

Rob

thy · Post by **thy** » Mar 15, 2007 7:30 am

Rob is right, but if you keep as much as you can of the soil around the roots, they wil normally accept it all growing season.
If you want to split them- the early summer - after the first flush is the best time.

Pia

Gruntfuttock · Post by **Gruntfuttock** » Mar 15, 2007 1:16 pm

Thanks guys, I shall be out there with my trusty spade as soon as I can.

Tigger · Post by **Tigger** » Mar 15, 2007 3:07 pm

There's an entry on dividing hostas at the Hosta FAQ. Basically it agrees with what is said above; see the "another opinion" link to get Bob Solberg's ideas re: spring vs. late summer dividing. Now, moving you really can do about any time, if you give the guy some TLC after. The big advantage to spring moving is that you don't have to wrestle with all the leaves!