How To Divide Hostas - BBC Gardeners World Magazine

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Hostas are easy to propagate by division in spring, just as they're starting into growth. One large clump can be divided into several new plants. Potted up and grown on in a sheltered spot or cold frame, these new plants will be ready to plant out later in the year year.

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To keep slugs off your hostas, focus on growing strong, healthy plants that will be more able to withstand attacks. You can also lay sacrificial comfrey leaves around the base of plants, mulch with grit, create beer traps, mulch with bran or use copper barriers. Make sure you've created habitats for toads, frogs, hedgehogs and birds, too, which eat slugs and snails.

Follow the simple steps below to divide your hostas.

You Will Need

  • Hosta plant
  • Secateurs
  • A sharp knife
  • Multi-purpose, peat-free compost
  • Grit
  • 30cm pots

Step 1

Trimming hosta roots
Trimming hosta roots

Dig up the clump, then cut it into smaller sections, each with one or more pointed buds and plenty of roots. Trim the roots to fit in a pot.

Step 2

Potting up hosta divisions
Potting up hosta divisions

Pot up each division in an equal parts mix (by volume) of multi-purpose compost and fine grit. Fill any gaps around the sides.

Step 3

Watering newly planted hosta divisions
Watering newly planted hosta divisions
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Firm the compost around the roots, and top up if necessary. Water well, then stand the pots in a sheltered position to grow on.

Spring mulching

Spring is also the ideal time for mulching your beds and borders. Cover them with a thick layer of organic matter to deter weed germination and help lock in soil moisture. Try to do this before spring growth really gets going – borders will be easier to access and you're less likely to damage emerging plants.

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