Even in December there is no rest from gardening. Some plants still need our attention. This time we are taking a closer look at popular funks that may now require… pruning. In turn, young specimens will need to be additionally protected against frost.
Pruning hostas is the most important treatment for these plants, which must be done before winter arrives. So when should this be done?
There is no specific date for winter pruning of hostas. We need to observe specimens – We only carry out this treatment when their leaves are completely yellow or brown. If we cut off the green parts, we weaken the fungi that still use nutrients.
Then the next question arises: how to properly prune hostas in December? It’s very simple. First, grab the plant’s leaves with one hand and cut them to a height of about 5 cm above the ground with the other.
If we do this at the right time and respect the cutting height, they will grow abundantly next season. They will produce lots of decorative leaves.
However, remember to get rid of all dead leaves. It’s best to throw them into the composter. Otherwise, fungal diseases will spread. Moreover, the remains after pruning could become a shelter for rodents, such as mice or voles. In addition, they are a source of dangerous pathogens.
READ ALSO:
After trimming it is worth covering the funkia with a layer of mulch, e.g. straw or peat. This especially applies to those plants that were planted in an uncovered position.
In general, hostas are resistant to difficult conditions, but young specimens, especially those we planted this year, require covering for the winter. This way we will protect them not only against frost, but also against moisture loss and drying of the roots caused by winter wind.
Therefore, we cover young plants with insulating material – the popular agrotextile will work great. We can also use natural materials, such as dry leaves, straw, coniferous tree twigs.
Specimens that are several years old require covering only if they are planted in places exposed to wind. In a sheltered position there is no such need.
