Curly fries hosta plant care & growing guide
Need a fun new hosta variety to add to your collection? Have a look at the curly fries hosta!
The curly fries hosta is a small hosta variety with narrow rippled leaves in a bright chartreuse color. While this variety grows best in partial shade, it is sun-tolerant in cooler climates. Mature plants are about 6″ tall and 16″ wide, with lavender flowers in midsummer. Curly fries hosta can be grown in zones 3-9 (provide afternoon shade in zones 8-9).
Read on to learn all about curly fries hosta!
Introduction to curly fries hosta
The curly fries hosta (Hosta hybrid) is a small, mound-forming perennial. It gets its name from its rippled, narrow leaves that resemble curly fries. The leaves of curly fries hosta are a bright chartreuse color, with darker green margins.
This variety is sun-tolerant in cooler climates (typically zones 3-7) but does best in partial shade. The mature plant is 6″ tall and 16″ broad.
Where to buy curly fries hosta plants
You can purchase curly fries hosta plants from many online retailers or from your local nursery. Be sure to look for a reputable seller with healthy plants.
How to plant curly fries hosta
Curly fries hosta is easy to grow and care for! Start by planting it properly and in the right location.
When and where to plant curly fries hosta
The best time to plant curly fries hosta is in the spring, after the last frost date. This variety can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. Curly fries hosta will do best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates (zones 3-7). Afternoon shade is important in hotter areas.
Preparing the planting site
First, choose a location for your curly fries hosta that meets the plant’s light requirements. If you are planting more than one curly fries hosta, space the plants about 16″ apart.
Next, prepare the planting site by turning over the soil and removing any weeds. Add some organic matter to the soil, such as compost or peat moss. This will help the plant roots to establish themselves and improve drainage. Here are some more tips for preparing great soil for planting hostas.
Planting curly fries hosta
To plant curly fries hosta, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but not deeper. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole so that the crown (where the leaves emerge) is at soil level. Backfill the hole with soil and water well.
Mulching curly fries hosta
Curly fries hosta benefits from a layer of mulch around the base of the plant. This helps to keep the roots cool and moist, and also reduces weeds. Use an organic mulch, such as chopped leaves, wood chips, or bark mulch.
Plant care for curly fries hosta
Plant care in the first year or two mainly consists of watering regularly, plus the possible application of fertilizer in spring and summer.
Watering curly fries hosta
Water curly fries hosta regularly during the first growing season to help the plant roots establish themselves. After that, water as needed to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Curly fries hosta is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
The best way to water this plant is right at the soil line. Avoid getting water on the leaves on a regular basis. Good ways to water curly fries hosta include using a soaker hose or drip irrigation.
Fertilizing curly fries hosta
Apply a balanced fertilizer for hostas to the plant in spring and summer. Follow the package directions for application rates and frequency. You can also use compost or other organic matter as a fertilizer.
Pruning curly fries hosta
Curly fries hosta does not require pruning, but you can trim back any tattered leaves as they appear. You can also cut back the plant to its base in the fall after the first hard frost in the fall.
Insects and diseases that affect curly fries hosta
Curly fries hosta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to slugs, snails, and leaf spot. If you see any of these pests or diseases on your plant, take action immediately.
Pest insects for hostas
Hostas like curly fries are targetted by garden pests like slugs, snails, and Japanese beetles. These pests can cause serious damage to the plant if left unchecked.
Slugs and snails can be handpicked off at night with a flashlight or caught in beer traps. Japanese beetles can be controlled with organic insecticidal sprays or traps.
Diseases that affect hostas
Some of the diseases that can affect curly fries hosta include powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases are often caused by too much moisture on the leaves. Be sure to water at the soil line and avoid getting water on the leaves. If you see any of these diseases on your plant, treat them with an organic fungicide according to the package directions.
Powdery mildew is a white powdery fungus that can occur in humid conditions. It can be controlled with organic fungicides or by increasing air circulation around the plant.
Rust is a red or brown powdery fungus that can occur in humid conditions. It can be controlled with organic fungicides or by increasing air circulation around the plant.
Leaf spot is a brown or black spot that can occur on the leaves of curly fries hosta. It can be controlled with organic fungicides or by removing and disposing of affected leaves.
Curly fries hosta is a great plant for adding interest to your garden. It is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. With its rippled leaves and chartreuse foliage, it is sure to add beauty to any landscape.
