Hosta Hybrids Mix

Seed Treatment 

  1. Cold Stratification:

    • Place seeds in a moist paper towel or mix with moist vermiculite or peat moss.
    • Seal in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 4–6 weeks at 35–40°F (1–4°C).
    • Check periodically to ensure medium remains moist but not soggy.
    • This mimics winter dormancy and encourages better germination.

  2. Soaking (Before Stratification):

    • Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 12–24 hours to soften the seed coat before stratification.

Planting Instructions

  1. When to Sow:
    • Indoors: Start seeds 6–10 weeks before the last frost date.
    • Outdoors: Direct sowing is less common but possible in late fall for natural stratification.

  2. Soil Requirements:
    • Use a light, well-draining seed-starting mix enriched with a bit of compost.
    • pH should be 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

  3. Light Requirements:
    • Bright indirect light or a grow light is ideal. Avoid intense direct sunlight for seedlings.
    • Once mature, hostas prefer partial to full shade.

  4. Sowing Depth:
    • Surface sow or plant seeds no deeper than ⅛ inch (3 mm).
    • Lightly press into the soil — hosta seeds need light to germinate.

  5. Watering:
    • Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mist gently to avoid displacing seeds.

  6. Germination Time:
    • Germination typically occurs in 14–21 days, but can take up to 30 days AFTER stratification
    • Maintain soil temperature at 65–75°F (18–24°C) during germination.

  7. Spacing:
    • Transplant seedlings when they have at least 2–3 sets of true leaves, spacing them 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart.

Growing Tips:

  • Hostas are long-lived shade-loving perennials, ideal for woodland gardens, shady borders, or containers.
  • Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Protect young plants from slugs and snails.
  • Hostas grown from seed may vary in size and leaf pattern, offering unique and beautiful foliage as they mature.

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