hosta's and cold - Ask Extension
My hosta's around the house and yard are up about 4 - 6 inches and it is supposed to drop into the 20's tonight - should I cover them?
Knowledgebase
hosta's and cold #745472
Asked April 21, 2021, 10:46 AM EDT
My hosta's around the house and yard are up about 4 - 6 inches and it is supposed to drop into the 20's tonight - should I cover them?
Monroe County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Lynda,
Hostas are hardy perennials. The roots will be able to handle the colder temperatures, the plant will not die if they are not covered. The emerging leaves however, may become frost damaged if you don't cover them. When the hosta leaves open you will see the leaves that suffered frost damage. They will curl or pucker, in some cases, turn brown. These leaves will eventually fall off and new leaves will take their place. You may want to remove them yourself after they open up if you don't like the way they look.
Thanks for using Ask Extension,
Pam Voss
MSUE Master Gardener
