hosta

Hosta 'Designer Genes' should be watered regularly throughout the growing season when the top 2 inches of soil is dry. In hotter climates, frequent heavy watering may be necessary. During periods of drought, be sure to water in the morning to reduce moisture loss through evaporative cooling on hot days. During winter, watering needs to be reduced significantly, but be sure to check periodically because the plant may need occasional water during dry spells.

Hosta 'Designer Genes' plants prefer filtered sun exposure to direct sunlight. Ideal exposure is 4-5 hours of morning light and filtered shade for the remaining daylight hours. As with most plants, too much direct sun exposure can lead to water loss, dehydration, and scorching of the leaves. If planted in direct sunlight, light exposure should be limited to no more than 2-3 hours per day. Always avoid intense mid-day sun or west-facing exposures. Insufficient sunlight will result in slow growth and an overall unhealthy look for the plant.

Hosta 'Designer Genes' is a vigorous grower and is best pruned using a combination of methods. Light pruning of the oldest leaves and stems should be done in the fall and spring, while more extensive pruning of the top foliage should be done in the late summer. For light pruning, remove any yellowing or browned leaves, plus any thin, weak stems. This will help to maintain the health of the plant and improve its overall appearance. To ensure that the hosta 'Designer Genes' looks its best, also trim away any overgrown leaves or those that have grown too long. For more extensive pruning of the top foliage, cut back sections of the foliage by about 1-third to 1-half down the plant during the late summer. This should be done each year to keep the size of the hosta 'Designer Genes' in check and to help promote more plentiful blooms for the following season.