Top row (left-right): 'Halcyon', 'Fire and Ice', 'Blue Angel'. Middle row (l-r): 'Sagae', H. sieboldiana 'Elegans', 'June'. Bottom row (l-r): 'Liberty', 'Sum and Substance', 'Patriot'.
Hostas are among the most beautiful and stately of foliage plants for shade gardens but many varieties are severely damaged by slugs and snails feeding on their leaves. The varieties listed above have proven to resist such damage in all parts of the U.S. and are readily available at better garden centers at a reasonable price.
All that they require is well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and regular watering through the summer months. Try to keep most hosta varieties out of the sun during the afternoon hours to avoid burning the leaves. Varieties that will tolerate sun into the early afternoon are 'June,' 'Pathfinder,' 'Sum and Substance,' and 'Great Expectations' to name a few (not all are shown above).
As an extra bit of protection against slugs, sprinkle a small amount of SLUGGO or other brand of iron phosphate pellets around the base of your hostas and other emerging perennials to prevent damage. Iron phosphate is safe to pets and wildlife and remains effective after raining. Cheers, Tim
