Submitted by FSGC member Judy Kavanagh – clipped from a local newspaper

When planting hosta, dig an oversized hole, fill with good compost, a handful of lime per plant, and a half a cup of magnesium sulfate – all mixed thoroughly together. I use last year’s maple leaves in the bottom of each hole because those leaves have minor elements that are important and the leaves serve as a sponge when it rains or you water or fertilize them. Remember, water is the best fertilizer for hostas. If you happen to be a coffee drinker or have access to used grounds, sprinkle them around each hosta. The caffeine serves as a deterrent to slugs and snails and amends the soil as it breaks down.

Need more information? Try The American Hosta Society or visit Vermont Flower Farm in Marshfield, Vermont.

Featured Resource:

The Native Plant Trust:

“Conserving and promoting New England’s native plants to ensure healthy, biologically diverse landscapes.”

Visit The Native Plant Trust

Read about the plants of our area, controlling invasives, the effects of climate change on the flora of New England, which species are in danger and what we can do about it. You can even find travel opportunities that focus on unusual flora. As you explore the website, identify the five goals for creating an ecological garden and four ways to get there.

National Garden Clubs
Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont
New England Region
Old Stone House
Wooden Horse Arts Guild
Mac Center for the Arts
Charlie Nardozzi’s gardening site
Master Gardener Program
Vermont Invasive Plants