Hosta Hosta 'Blue Cadet'

Water

Hostas, including the 'Blue Cadet' variety, prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water them thoroughly. On average, provide about an inch of water per week, which translates to about 0.623 gallons for a square foot. During hot or dry periods, you may need to water the plants more frequently, possibly twice a week, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant early in the day. It’s also beneficial to use mulch to help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Light

Hostas, such as the 'Blue Cadet', thrive in partial to full shade. The best location is one where morning sunlight may be present, but with protection from the harsh afternoon sun. Dappled shade under trees or a northern exposure often provides ideal light conditions for this perennial to maintain its vibrant foliage and overall health.

Temperature

'Blue Cadet' hostas grow best in environments where the temperature ranges from 40°F to 85°F. They can survive a minimum temperature down to about 30°F and can handle occasional spikes above 85°F, as long as they are well-watered and not in direct sun. Optimal growth for Hostas typically occurs when temperatures are between 50°F and 75°F.

Pruning

Prune 'Blue Cadet' hostas to remove dead or damaged foliage throughout the growing season as needed to maintain plant health and appearance. Large-scale pruning should happen in the fall after the leaves have died back or in the early spring before new growth starts. Pruning is also an opportunity to control plant size and remove flower stalks after blooms have faded, if desired.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Hostas prefer moist, well-draining soil with high organic matter. A mix of one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand works well for 'Blue Cadet'. The ideal pH for this hosta is between 6.0 and 7.5.

Repotting

Hostas like 'Blue Cadet' typically need to be repotted every 3 to 5 years. This allows for refreshing the soil and dividing the plant if it has become too large for its container.

Humidity & Misting

'Blue Cadet' hostas thrive in average to high humidity environments, comparable to their natural forest understory habitats. Aim for a humidity level of 50% or higher for optimal growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow in bright, indirect light, water when topsoil feels dry.

• Outdoor

  Plant in dappled shade, ensure soil is rich and well-draining.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Hosta 'Blue Cadet', commonly known as Plantain Lily, begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome, which is planted in moist, well-drained soil in early spring or fall. In springtime, shoots emerge from the rhizome and develop into a clump of heart-shaped, blue-green leaves that can reach 12 inches in height. Throughout the growing season, the foliage spreads and creates a ground cover; this perennial thrives in partial to full shade. In early to midsummer, the Blue Cadet produces delicate stalks of bell-shaped lavender flowers that rise above the foliage, attracting pollinators. After blooming, the energy is directed back to the rhizome to prepare for dormancy. The plant enters a period of dormancy in the late fall or early winter as the leaves die back, and it remains dormant until the next spring when the cycle begins anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• The Hosta 'Blue Cadet', commonly known as the Blue Cadet Hosta, is best propagated through division. This process is ideally carried out in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, you should carefully dig up the established clump and use a sharp knife or spade to cut the root mass into smaller sections, each with several shoots and ample root system. These divisions can then be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing, spaced approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method of propagation not only helps to create new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become too dense.