Can You Grow Hosta Plants In Containers? Here's What To Know

Hosta plants, otherwise known as Hosta plantaginea, are a hardy perennial that love to be in shady spots where other plants struggle to thrive. There are lots of different varieties of hosta plant and they all have unique characteristics, like leaf color and structure, but all in all they are known for their gorgeous thick green foliage, which are an asset to any garden.

Container gardening has become somewhat of a buzzword in the horticultural world, and is the concept of creating a beautiful garden by planting flowers, shrubs, and edibles in pots and containers, rather than in the ground. There are lots of benefits of growing a container garden, especially if you don't have a traditional backyard. They are an amazing alternative for people with compact outdoor areas and on the whole, require less maintenance. However, it's important to know what types of plant can be grown and will thrive in containers along with which ones can't. 

The overall consensus is that yes, you can grow hosatas in containers as long as you provide your hosta plants with the right care. Although it's definitely worth noting that some experts recommend against this, mainly due to the soil in containers drying out quicker.

Growing hosta plants in containers can easily be done if you provide them with the right vessel and ongoing care. It's important to give your hosta enough room to grow, so pick out a large pot or container that is at least 18 inches in diameter, with ample holes for drainage. One of the biggest pros of growing hostas in pots is that they can easily be moved for better growing conditions. For example, if your hosta is getting too much sunlight and would prefer a shadier spot, then you have the flexibility to move it.

Hostas are also known for being a slug's favorite snack, and when planted in the ground they can be completely destroyed by them. Planting them in containers, adds a protective barrier against slugs and other common pests making them more likely to thrive. Plus, you can easily move your container to parts of your garden where slugs haven't been spotted or put them up in hanging baskets. You can even move them indoors for a time when necessary. Finally, rather than hoping that the soil in the ground is going to be right for your hostas, planting them in pots means you can control exactly what type of soil they receive, ensuring its a rich, well-drained option. 

When it comes to cons, there isn't too much to say. Planting hostas in pots means that there is arguably more maintenance involved. This is because, as they grow they will require more space, so they will have to be repotted into a bigger pot. Also, the need for more frequent watering could risk water-drenching them.