You’ll find dozens of varieties of hostas (Hosta spp.) At retailers that are online and garden centers. Hostas, which generally increase in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9, are known for their attractive foliage and color tolerance. Hostas will rise beneath true cedars, such as Himalayan cedar (Cedrus deodara), which grows in USDA zones 7 and 2, in addition to some other species using the common name”cedar,” such as red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), which grows in USDA zones 2 through 9.
Plant Toxins
A few trees, most notably black walnut (Juglans nigra) which grows in USDA zones 4 through 9, secrete chemicals from their origins which are toxic to many common garden crops. This trait is called. Include compounds that have antimicrobial properties, which is the reason cedar resists rot. Other compounds present in cedar, particularly thujone repel insects, but are not allelopathic.
Planting Under Trees
Using plants, such as hostas, under cedars can be helpful for both the hostas and the trees or shrubs. Mass hosta plantings form an mats serving as a mulch which conserves soil moisture and shades out weeds. The hostas’ presence prevents lawn mowers or string trimmers from damaging the cedars’ trunks. The cedars subsequently color if subjected to strong sun the hostas, whose leaves would be scorched. When the cedars are planted on slopes, the hostas’ roots also help in erosion control.
Hosta Types
Based upon the size of this cedar, many hosta species and varieties work nicely growing beneath. Large-leafed varieties, such as”Blue Umbrellas” (Hosta”Blue Umbrellas”), that grows in USDA zones 3 through 8, grow up to 3 feet tall, with a 4-foot spread, providing a dramatic accent beneath a 40 to 50 foot Himalayan cedar. Cedars, that don’t produce blossoms, are enhanced by traditional August lily hostas (Hosta plantaginea), which increase in USDA zones 3 through 9, which comprise fragrant, white blossoms in summer time.
Planting Considerations
Hostas are hardy plants which generally succeed nicely under trees. Plant hostas in pockets between bamboo roots to keep both the cedar and the hosta wholesome. Never cut roots while planting. If the hostas have not yet grown together to form a mat and are young, mulch to conserve moisture. Because the hosta roots are competing with all the bigger and more cedar root systems, provide the supplemental water whereas the plants establish themselves. Watering is also a good idea during dry spells.