Hosta Bulbs | What You Need to Know About Growing Hostas from Bare Roots
Introduction: Can You Grow Hostas from Bulbs?
When gardeners refer to “hosta bulbs,” they usually mean hosta bare roots or crowns, not true bulbs like tulips or daffodils. Hostas are herbaceous perennials that grow from thick, fleshy root systems rather than true bulbs. Buying hostas in bare root form — especially in early spring — is a popular, affordable way to start or expand your hosta collection.
What Are Hosta “Bulbs”?
Although commonly listed as “bulbs” in some garden centres or online stores, hostas are actually sold as:
- Bare root plants – Dormant crowns with roots attached
- Divisions – A section of an existing mature plant
- Potted plants – Already growing in soil and often available later in spring
These bare root hostas are stored and shipped while dormant, making them lightweight and easy to handle — perfect for mail order.
Why Buy Hosta Bare Roots (or ‘Bulbs’)?
- 💷 Cost-Effective – Cheaper than mature potted plants
- 📦 Easy to Post and Store – Great for mail order gardening
- 🌱 Wide Variety – Many unique or rare varieties are sold this way
- 🌿 Fast Growth – Establish quickly in the right conditions
- 🪴 Ideal for Mass Planting – Affordable way to fill shady areas
When to Plant Hosta Bare Roots
- Best time: Early to mid spring (March to May)
- Can also be planted in autumn, but spring is preferred for strong establishment
- Plant as soon as soil is workable and not waterlogged
How to Plant Hosta “Bulbs” or Bare Roots
What You’ll Need:
- Hosta bare root or division
- Moisture-retentive, well-drained soil
- Compost or organic matter
- Watering can
Step-by-Step Planting:
- Soak the root in water for 1–2 hours before planting to rehydrate it.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root mass and about 10–15 cm deep.
- Add compost to enrich the planting hole.
- Place the crown so the top sits just at or slightly below soil level.
- Backfill and firm the soil gently.
- Water thoroughly, then mulch around the base to retain moisture.
🌤️ Choose a location with partial to full shade and consistent moisture.
Caring for Newly Planted Hosta Bare Roots
- 💧 Water regularly, especially during dry periods
- 🌱 Mulch with compost or bark to help retain soil moisture
- 🐌 Protect emerging shoots from slugs using wildlife-safe pellets or barriers
- 🌞 Avoid direct afternoon sun, which may stress new growth
- ✂️ Do not trim emerging foliage — let the leaves unfurl naturally
How Long Do Hosta Bulbs Take to Grow?
- Shoots usually emerge within 2–4 weeks in spring, depending on temperature
- Full leaf spread develops by late spring to early summer
- Flowers may appear in mid to late summer, depending on variety and maturity
Note: First-year plants may be smaller and less full than mature ones — they’ll bulk up significantly in year two and beyond.
Tips for Success
- Label your varieties — hosta leaves often look similar when emerging
- Space correctly — leave 30–90 cm between plants depending on variety size
- Divide every few years to maintain vigour and shape
- Fertilise lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release feed
Common Varieties Available as Bare Roots
| Variety | Colour & Features | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Hosta ‘Patriot’ | Green leaves with white edges | Medium |
| Hosta ‘Blue Angel’ | Large blue-green leaves, dramatic | Large |
| Hosta ‘Francee’ | Classic green/white variegation | Medium |
| Hosta ‘Golden Tiara’ | Compact yellow-edged foliage | Small |
| Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’ | Huge chartreuse leaves, great impact | Extra Large |
Conclusion
Although often referred to as “hosta bulbs,” these plants grow from fleshy crowns or bare roots — not true bulbs. Planting hostas from bare root form is an economical and efficient way to enjoy this popular perennial. With proper planting and care, your hostas will thrive in shady spaces, offering lush foliage and graceful summer flowers year after year.