How to Cultivate Hosta Seeds

Overview

Hosta is a classic addition to any garden. And with so many varieties and fun names like "Guacamole" and "Striptease," it's easy to become devoted to this pleasant little plant. Few plants are easier to cultivate from seed. When planted in growing zones 3 through 9, they virtually take care of themselves. Simply plant hosta seeds in the spring, water frequently and you'll enjoy a lovely perennial plant that gets better with age.

Step 1

Amend the soil. Spread a 6-inch layer of soil amendment that is half peat humus and half pine bark fines. Using a hoe, loosen the soil to a depth of 1 foot. Add in four handfuls of bone meal and mix it and the other soil amendments as you loosen the soil. Remove any rocks, plants and roots that you unearth as you go.

Step 2

Beginning in early spring, measure the temperature of the soil with your thermometer every morning at 8 a.m. and record the daily temperature. Once the 10-day average of the soil temperature is greater than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it is time to plant the seeds.

Step 3

Use a hoe to dig a trench that is 4 feet deep. Dig any neighboring trenches 2 feet away.

Step 4

Sprinkle the tiny hosta seeds in the center of the trench. Sprinkling is an imprecise science. As long as your seeds have a half inch or so of space between seeds, they will be fine.

Step 5

Spread a 2-inch layer of peat moss over the trench.

Step 6

Water the soil so that it is moist to a depth of 4 inches. Continue to keep the soil moist at this depth until the seeds sprout.

Step 7

Remove any weeds that sprout near your hostas.