- 1). Dig a hole twice the size of your container of hostas, or twice the depth and width of the roots of a hosta division -- typically about 8 to 12 inches in depth and circumference. Hostas are one of the hardiest and easiest plants to grow and, with the way they multiply, acquiring new plants through division of existing plants is one of the simplest ways to get new plants. Follow recommendations for spacing available with your new hosta plant if purchased from a grower, or provide at least a foot spacing for large varieties or less for smaller. Boxwood roots are not wide-spreading, so you pose little threat to damaging your boxwood plant if you follow spacing suggestions.
- 2). Place 2 or 3 inches of compost into the hole. Compost provides a healthy boost of nutrients and will help keep the soil loose and lightweight to allow for easy root growth.
- 3). Place the hosta plant in the hole and fill in with soil to the crown of the plant.
- 4). Water deeply by either laying a hose at the base and allowing to run for a few minutes, or by providing a full gallon of water to the plant. This allows for the soil to settle completely. Water any new perennial, including hostas, on a regular supplemental schedule so that they receive a deep watering a couple times a week. Doing so forces roots to grow deep and strong in search of water, while a general sprinkling daily often means short, shallow roots that won't survive cold, harsh winter weather.
- 5). Mulch with a layer of 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch around your plants for a finished look that helps lessen water loss from evaporation, keeps the soil cool and provides a barrier for weeds. The Virginia Cooperative Extension office warns that boxwoods are shallow rooted and will not grow in hot, dry soils. Never place any plastic mulching sheets under the mulch as they heat up the soil too much. Too much mulch, conversely, encourages shallow plant roots, keeping roots in the upper strata of the soil where it is more likely to dry out and heat up in the summer heat.
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