Hostas are a favourite among gardeners, adding beauty and texture to any space. Hostas thrive well in the shade – exactly where slugs are found. But it is possible to protect hostas! Here is our guide on how to stop slugs eating hosta plants.
You can stop slugs from eating hostas by using less mulch, creating barriers and sticking to slug-resistant hosta varieties.
While a perfect addition to many gardens, hostas do not seem to last long because they are susceptible to slug damage. You will have to take certain measures to protect your hostas against slug damage.
Some methods include using uncomfortable barriers, like eggshells, and eliminating places where slugs can hide, such as mulch. In addition, you can also use diatomaceous earth, which is excellent at killing not only slugs but other harmful pests.
Will Hostas Recover From Slug Damage?
If slugs have eaten your hostas, you will be worried about them and whether they will ever be able to recover from the damage.
If you have been taking good care of your hostas and are located in the right environment, they are likely to recover successfully and grow back. Moreover, there is a good chance that your hostas will recover if you tend to them after the first slug attack.
On the other hand, hostas are unlikely to recover if slugs repeatedly eat them. This means that hostas do not get the chance to heal, and the damage becomes too much by the time you tend to these plants.
What are Slug-Resistant Hosta Varieties?
Sometimes slug damage cannot be avoided, and in this scenario, you can resort to planting slug-resistant hosta varieties. Here are some varieties of hostas you can have in your garden without worrying about slug attacks.
Hosta June
Hosta June is known for its coloured leaves of blue, green and yellow. These plants are used to add colour and scenic beauty to gardens. Especially during the early morning sun, the sunlight enhances the colours of the plant.
This hosta plant can tolerate the sun for up to four whole hours each day. This hosta plant will be a good choice if you are a new gardener. In addition, you do not need to spend too much time taking care of and maintaining the plant.
This hosta plant can resist slugs because of its thick, ribbed leaves. The flowers which bloom also invite birds into gardens which aid in pollination.
Krossa Regal
The Krossa Regal hosta is a perfect addition to gardens if you are worried about a slug infestation. You can add this plant as it is tall and discourages slugs from climbing. The slugs do not climb the plant and cause no harm to the leaves.
Other than gardens, many people prefer having this plant in the corner of their house or beside the pathways. The leaves are shaped like a vase and are green in colour with a hint of blue, adding a touch of colour.
Halcyon
For a hosta plant to survive slug attacks, you need it to be hardy and have resistance. Hence, the Halcyon is perfect because it can resist slugs, especially mature plants. The plants are green with blue tones and have flat, pear-shaped leaves. In addition, the leaves are ribbed, thick and can be in the sun for four hours if it is given ample moisture.
The Halcyon is a beautiful plant with a light colour when out in the sun. in addition, the plant has violet flowers during midsummer.
Sum and Substance
Sum and substance are ideal for hostas if you have a big garden. These plants are tall, but they require some space to grow. Sum and substance grow to be as tall as five feet and even more!
All hostas, including Sum and Substance, need moisture for survival. Otherwise, they do not reach their full potential. The leaves of this plant are waxy, which repels slugs. The tall height discourages the slugs from climbing too.
Maui Buttercups
Maui Buttercups are available for you to add to your garden in the springtime. The leaves are lime green, and they turn a beautiful golden yellow in the sun. This plant’s texture prevents slugs from eating them with thick, leathery leaves. You can also place these hostas in the sun.
The hostas can be grown in containers, which can be used to form a border. You will spot some white flowers on this plant during midsummer.
Royal Standard
Royal standard is another hardy hosta that makes a beautiful addition to any garden. The green leaves and foliage make it stand out.
What Can You Spray on Hostas to Protect Them?
When planning to plant any hostas in your garden, it is important to take measures to protect them. Apart from removing mulch or adding barriers, you can also create a spray for your hostas to ensure that slugs do not eat them.
You can make a slug repellent spray using tea tree oil which lets out a strong smell that keeps slugs and other bugs away. You can mix some drops of tea tree oil on two cups of water. Spray the mixture on the hostas or any slugs you spot.
Summary
Although hostas are a wonderful addition to gardens, they can fall prey to slugs. You can prevent your hostas from slug damage by taking measures. For instance, it would help remove mulch where slugs tend to hide.
You can also add barriers like eggshells and use diatomaceous earth to kill slugs. I would also help make a spray using water and tea tree oil. The tea tree oil has a strong smell which slugs do not like.
There are also some varieties of slug-resistant hostas which make a perfect addition to gardens. These hostas require no extra maintenance, which is ideal if you are a new gardener. You can have beauty without worrying about slugs.
