Sunlight Requirements for Hosta Plants

 I grow hosta plants under trees but this year I noticed that the hosta plants were slow to grow and fill in the space. I watched the sunlight in this garden and sure enough, the plants were not getting enough morning sunlight.

 

My hosta garden under the maple tree thrived for many years, but that changed when the other trees grew in and blocked the morning sun.  Hosta plants are shade tolerant and will survive if they receive some sun throughout the day. 

Many of my hosta plants prefer 4 to 6 hours of morning sun with shade in the heat of the day, then partial sun at dusk.

Know that hostas have different sun requirements some plants thrive in direct sunlight and can survive a heat wave, while yellow and gold cultivars need 2 to 3 hours of early sun for the greatest color. Variegated hostas need at least 4 hours of direct sun per day to maintain their variegation.

Hosta plants transplanted to garden by the wall. This area will allow the plants to get morning sun and shade in the afternoon. 

Here is a photo poster of a white-tipped Hosta plant that I grew in the morning sun and shade in the afternoon.  The plant was very healthy and looked beautiful in my garden

 Hostas generally need at least 6 hours of shade during the hottest part of the day, especially from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.