Hosta Great Expectations

Hosta 'Great Expectations' thrives in moist, well-drained soil conditions and should be watered deeply at least once a week. To determine if the soil requires watering, insert a finger or a trowel into the soil and if it is dry to the touch, give the plant a deep watering until the water drains from the bottom of the pot. Reduce watering immediately if the leaves of the plant show signs of disease or discoloration.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' will do best in shade or part-shade conditions with two to three hours of morning sun. This cultivar is tolerant of full sun if the soil is kept consistently moist and does not dry out quickly. Keep in mind that if grown in full sun, the foliage will be slightly more yellow in tone and the plant will require additional watering.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' prefers temperatures between 45°F/7°C and 80°F/26°C. This plant is very hardy to mild frost; however, if a hard freeze is forecasted, it is recommended that the plant be covered with a frost blanket overnight to prevent damage to the foliage. When daytime temperatures approach 80°F/27°C, ensure the plant is kept in a well-ventilated area or moved to a slightly shadier spot.

Humidity levels can affect the growth of Hosta 'Great Expectations'. High-humidity levels are ideal; however, this cultivar can adapt to low-humidity levels if provided with adequate soil moisture. During dry season with low-humidity, consider misting the foliage daily with warm water to keep the leaves moist and healthy.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' prefers soil that is loose, light-textured, and rich in organic matter. This variety is hardy in a variety of soils, but the ideal soil pH level is 6.0 to 7.5. When potting new plants, use a loose, well-draining potting mix that contains perlite, peat, and/or compost for increased drainage and aeration.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' has low to moderate fertilizer requirements. During the spring and summer growth season, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be used to ensure adequate plant nutrition. In the fall months, ceasing fertilizer applications is recommended to allow for a winter rest from fertilization.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' is a relatively pest-free cultivar, but may occasionally be infected with slugs, snails, aphids, and spider mites. Slug and snail infestations can be treated with products such as Sluggo. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with organic insecticidal soaps, by introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs or praying mantises, or by spraying the foliage with a strong stream of water from the garden hose. In rare cases, the plant may suffer from root rot, and wilting of leaves if this occurs, inspect the roots for brown discoloration and administer a fungicide if needed.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' does not require frequent repotting. It is recommended that the plant be repotted when the roots become crowded, or every two to four years. When repotting, use a container with drainage holes and soil specifically formulated for hostas. When repotting, ensure the soil is moist and the plant is watered generously.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' should be lightly pruned so as not to disrupt its natural growth pattern. Trim old, damaged leaves to maintain a neat, tidy plant. Do not over prune as this may lead to weakened growth. If necessary, use sharp garden scissors to cut back old leaves to the ground up until the point of planting.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' benefits from a light mulch layer during late fall or early spring to protect the roots from low temperatures and also to promote healthy growth and reduce weed growth. Mulch may be composed of organic material such as leaves, wood chips, shredded bark, or aged compost.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' can be propagated either through division or seeds. To divide the plant, use a sharp spade to separate the crowns of the plant and replant in a separate container with moist soil. Each section should have viable root growth and leave the newly divided plant in the shade for its first season. To propagate from seeds, sow the seeds in moist, well-draining soil, lightly cover, and keep at a constant temperature and humidity. Germination may take several weeks or months and division is often the easiest and most successful method of propagation for this variety.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' does not require any additional support, but may benefit from a light application of mulch in late fall or early spring. This will help promote healthy growth and protect the roots from frost and cold temperatures.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' does not have a specific rest period and can be grown year-round in its hardiness zone. During the winter months, it is important to keep the plant well-watered to prevent the foliage from becoming dry and droopy. If grown indoors, the humidity levels should be monitored, especially during the dry winter months.

Hosta 'Great Expectations' is not known to be toxic to humans or pets. However, as a precaution, it is recommended to keep houseplants, including this cultivar, away from children and pets.