How to Grow Hostas from Seed in 7 Easy Steps

2023-03-30
How to Grow Hostas from Seed in 7 Easy Steps

Hosta plants are typically multiplied by splitting the whole clump into more plants, but you can also grow hosta from seed. This hardy shade perennial can produce hundreds of seeds each year. Sprouting these seeds in the right conditions is a low-cost way to increase your hosta plants. For example, you can use the seedlings to make a low-maintenance groundcover for large shade areas. However, the seeds will most likely result in new plants with plain green leaves rather than look like the parent plant. Follow this step-by-step guide to grow your own hosta from seed.

1. Collect seed.

After hostas bloom in mid-summer, seed pods form along the bloom stalk where the flowers once were. Each seed pod contains many hosta seeds. When the seed pods begin to lose their green color and feel slightly dry to the touch, clip the entire bloom stalk. Gently clip the seed pods off the stalk and store the pods in a single layer in an open area where they will continue to dry. In a few weeks the seed pods will dry completely and burst open to reveal tiny black seeds. Gently scrape the seeds out of the pods. Store the seeds in a cool, dry, dark spot until you are ready to plant.

2. Gather your supplies.

To start hosta from seed, you’ll need fresh potting mix. A specially formulated seed starting mix is a great choice. Hosta seeds can be started in a variety of containers—from seed starting trays to plastic drink cups. Good drainage is key to any seed starting container. If your container doesn’t have drainage holes in the bottom, add several holes so water can escape freely. Finally, light is essential for growing healthy hosta seedlings. A south-facing window can provide ample light for a small number of plants. For more consistent light, invest in a grow light.

3. Plant seeds.

Late winter is the best time to plant hosta seeds. By starting seeds about 8 weeks before the last average frost date in your area, plants will have ample time to gain size and be transplanted outside before the following winter season sets in.

Before planting seeds, thoroughly moisten the potting mix. The mix should clump together when a handful is squeezed. Scatter the seeds on top of the moistened mix and cover them with about 1/8-inch of mix. Cover the container with plastic wrap to increase the humidity around the newly planted seeds. Light isn’t necessary until the seeds germinate and the first leaves appear.

4. Give seedlings water and light.

Shortly after the first leaves appear, remove the plastic wrap. Move the seedlings to a bright location. If you are using grow lights, position the lights 4 to 5 inches above the seedlings for 18 to 24 hours per day. Water the plants as needed using a watering can with a sprinkle-type head. Aim to keep the soilless potting mix evenly moist.

Combat fungal diseases and strengthen seedlings with a tabletop fan. Position the fan near the plants. Run the fan on the lowest setting for a couple of hours a day.

5. Transplant into pots.

When seedlings are about 2 inches tall, transplant them into individual growing containers. Clean, recycled plastic garden pots work well. Continue growing seedlings under bright light until they are about 6 inches tall and have several leaves.

6. Harden off seedlings.

Hardening off is a process that helps young, tender plants growing in a controlled environment transition to harsher outdoor conditions. Blasts of wind, fluctuating temperatures, and bright sunlight can shock seedlings when they are moved directly into the garden after growing inside for weeks. Prepare hosta seedlings for the garden by moving the containers outside for a few hours a day for about a week. Place the plants in shade and a location somewhat protected from the wind. Move plants inside at night.

7. Transplant into the garden.

Hosta seedlings are ready to transplant into the garden when they are several inches tall. Hostas grow slowly; seedlings planted in late winter are often not ready to plant outside until mid- to late summer. Be sure to plant seedlings outside by early fall so they can develop a strong root system before winter weather arrives. If plants are not large enough to plant outside by early fall, keep the plants inside under grow lights until the following spring. Cover outdoor seedling hostas with straw in late fall for an extra layer of protection. Uncover plants in early spring.

Hostas, like all perennials, grow slowly at first. At the end of the first growing season, plants will be about 8 inches tall and wide. They will put on good growth the second year, expanding in height and width. Hostas started from seed reach maturity in about 4 years.

Related Article

How to Plant and Grow Rose of Jericho

How to Plant and Grow Rose of Jericho

Rose of Jericho is a unique houseplant that can survive with minimal water, making it a great option for travelers and forgetful gardeners.
21 Adorably Petite Plants for Fairy Gardens

21 Adorably Petite Plants for Fairy Gardens

Color is always nice, but scale is everything when choosing miniature garden plants. Peruse our favorite picks for fairy gardens and terrariums.
13 Colorful Nectar Plants for Pollinators

13 Colorful Nectar Plants for Pollinators

Create a gorgeous, pollinator-friendly garden by including these nectar-rich plants.
Is Coleus a Perennial or Annual? Here's How to Grow It Both Ways

Is Coleus a Perennial or Annual? Here's How to Grow It Both Ways

Is coleus a perennial that comes back every year? That depends on where you live and how you care for it. Use these tips to enjoy coleus as a colorful perennial or annual plant.
How to Plant and Grow Ranunculus

How to Plant and Grow Ranunculus

Ranunculus are favorite flowers for weddings, arrangements, and gardens. Here's how to plant and grow ranunculus.
How to Plant and Grow Glossy Abelia

How to Plant and Grow Glossy Abelia

This guide on how to grow glossy abelia includes essential planting and care tips such watering, fertilizing, and pruning needs. You'll also find popular types of abelia to grow and pretty companion plants for this flowering shrub.
Hydrangeas Not Blooming? 7 Reasons Why and How to Fix the Problem

Hydrangeas Not Blooming? 7 Reasons Why and How to Fix the Problem

Hydrangeas not blooming can be a frustrating problem for gardeners. These straightforward tips will promote tons of long-lasting flowers.
10 Best Sweet Potato Companion Plants for Larger Harvests

10 Best Sweet Potato Companion Plants for Larger Harvests

Mix and match these sweet potato companion plants in your vegetable beds for pest-free crops and easier gardening.
How to Harvest Mint, Dry Mint, and Store Mint

How to Harvest Mint, Dry Mint, and Store Mint

Learn how to harvest mint to keep plants more manageable and gather fresh mint leaves for cooking, drying, and storing!
How and When to Harvest Radishes at Their Peak

How and When to Harvest Radishes at Their Peak

These easy-to-follow tips will help you figure out how and when to harvest radishes for the best flavor and size. Plus, get troubleshooting advice if your radish roots aren't developing properly.
How and When to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors

How and When to Start Tomato Seeds Indoors

Find out exactly how and when to start tomato seeds indoors so they'll be ready to transplant into your garden in spring.
Tillers vs. Cultivators: How to Choose the Right One for Your Gardening Tasks

Tillers vs. Cultivators: How to Choose the Right One for Your Gardening Tasks

Learn the differences between tillers and cultivators and the tasks they're best suited for.
Here’s What Not to Put in Compost to Avoid a Contaminated Bin

Here’s What Not to Put in Compost to Avoid a Contaminated Bin

Composting is a simple way to turn your kitchen and yard waste into food for your garden. But some of these items should never be in compost.
Easy Lawn Repair for Patchy Grass Using Seed or Sod

Easy Lawn Repair for Patchy Grass Using Seed or Sod

With a bit of grass seed or sod, lawn repair is easy, and you’ll soon have a lush green carpet again.
What Are the Tiny White Bugs on Your Plants? 4 Common Pests They Could Be

What Are the Tiny White Bugs on Your Plants? 4 Common Pests They Could Be

Tiny white bugs on plants in your home or outdoors can be a big problem. Learn how to identify and get rid of them with this guide.
How to Spot 5 Common Plant Diseases and Keep Your Garden Healthy

How to Spot 5 Common Plant Diseases and Keep Your Garden Healthy

Protect your plants from the most common diseases. Learn to recognize the symptoms and how to prevent these diseases in the first place.
How to Landscape with Rocks and Stones in Your Yard

How to Landscape with Rocks and Stones in Your Yard

Decorative rocks and stones add another element of nature to your yard, whether you grow hydrangeas, tulips, or cacti.
Landscape Planning Tips From Start to Finish for a Perfect Yard

Landscape Planning Tips From Start to Finish for a Perfect Yard

Even if you're a beginner, these simple landscape planning tips will take the mystery out of designing your yard's ideal layout.
10 Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants Growing in Your Garden

10 Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants Growing in Your Garden

Use native plants in your garden instead of popular invasive landscape plants: See a list of common invasive plants, plus native alternatives to plant instead.
Your Seasonal Lawn-Care Schedule for the Midwest

Your Seasonal Lawn-Care Schedule for the Midwest

Use our lawn-care schedule to help you maintain a beautiful yard all year long. You'll learn exactly when to mow, aerate, fertilize, and overseed.