Guacamole Hosta Plant

The Hosta 'Guacamole' is a vibrant and rapidly growing plant that offers an enticing visual feast reminiscent of its namesake. Its expansive, glossy leaves boast an apple green center, akin to the creamy heart of an avocado, framed by streaked, dark green margins. These centers further brighten to a gold hue in summer and under increased sunlight exposure, contrasting beautifully with the consistently dark edges. Late in the summer it graces the garden with highly fragrant, pale lavender blossoms that rise elegantly on 36-inch scapes. Guacamole is not only notable for its attractive foliage and flowers but also its impressive sun tolerance. Its substantial presence, complemented by its fragrant blooms, ensures that it stands as a statement piece in any garden setting. Guacamole is shipped as a bare root, a method we favor for its ability to establish quickly, double in size compared to its potted counterparts within the first season, and omit the necessity for plastic pots—providing an eco-friendly advantage.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in spring or fall for optimal root establishment
• - Space plants 18-36 inches apart, depending on the variety, to allow for full growth

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0
• - Prefers rich, well-drained, and moist soil with plenty of organic matter

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply when first planted, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist
• - Once established, keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support lush foliage
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, which can encourage excessive foliage at the expense of flowers

Pruning and Training:

• - Remove faded or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to maintain appearance
• - Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late fall or early spring to encourage fresh growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Hosta may attract slugs and snails; use organic methods like slug traps or barriers to manage infestations
• - Monitor for pests such as deer, as they are known to eat Hostas

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms in mid-summer with spikes of bell-shaped flowers, often fragrant, in shades of white, lavender, or purple

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, tolerates both heat and cold conditions

Companion Plants for Hosta:

• - Ferns: Complements Hosta’s bold leaves with soft, feathery textures
• - Astilbe: Adds colorful, airy blooms that contrast with Hosta’s broad foliage
• - Heuchera: Provides a colorful, low-growing partner that pairs well with Hosta
• - Brunnera: Offers heart-shaped leaves that contrast with Hosta’s texture and form
• - Echinacea: Adds height and bright flowers that enhance Hosta’s leafy greens