Transplanting Hostas - Knowledgebase Question

Clawson, Mi
Avatar for LGorda
Question by LGorda
June 3, 2010
A neighbor gave me two mature hostas out of her garden, and the leaves have been eaten. Is it a good idea to transplant them into my garden? I have a brand new backyard which was landscaped last fall, and am just now starting to purchase perennials to plant. Thank you for your help.


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Answer from NGA
June 3, 2010
Hostas are magnets to snails and slugs, which is probably what caused the damage you are seeing. I'd wash those plants well before planting them in a new garden. Slug and snail eggs can be lurking in the soil and baby slugs or snails may be hiding in the leaves. Just rinse away as much of the dirt as you can and wash each and every leaf with a strong stream of water. After thoroughly cleaning the plants you can plant them in your garden. I'd follow up with a slug and snail bait scattered around the plants. I use the iron based Sluggo and it controls slugs and snails well. Apply according to label directions. Best wishes with your new landscape!

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