Reviving a Transplanted Hosta
- 1). Inspect the crown section of the transplanted hosta, which is where the stems emerge from the root system. The crown must sit slightly above soil level and cannot be covered, otherwise it becomes prone to rot. Remove soil from around the crown if it's covered.
- 2). Water the hosta thoroughly immediately after transplanting, moistening the top 8 inches of soil. Continue to water once weekly or as the top inch of soil begins to dry out. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- 3). Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch, such as shredded bark, over the bed and around the hosta, taking care not to cover the crown. The mulch protects the roots as they reestablish and also retains moisture in the soil.
- 4). Fertilize the hosta with a high-phosphorus starter fertilizer after transplanting to help encourage healthy root growth. Apply the fertilizer at the rate recommended on the label for the size of your hosta.
- 5). Prune out any leaves that yellow and die back or are damaged, cutting them out at the base of the leaf. Removing damaged leaves encourages the plant to spend its energy supporting the healthy leaves and helps the hosta return to health more quickly.
