Plantain lily 'Gold Standard' Hosta 'Gold Standard' (fortunei) (v)

Water

The Hosta, commonly known as plantain lily, prefers consistently moist soil but does not tolerate standing water. Water the Hosta deeply, providing about one gallon of water per week, especially during dry spells. It's best to water the plant in the early morning to allow the foliage to dry before nightfall, which can help prevent slugs and other pests. In periods of drought, increase watering frequency to maintain soil moisture but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.

Light

Plantain lilies thrive in partial to full shade. They do best in a location that receives morning light and is protected from the strong afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves. The variegated leaves of the 'Gold Standard' Hosta will show their best color with some morning sun, but too much direct sunlight can dull the variegation and stress the plant.

Temperature

Plantain lilies are hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures but grow best when the weather is between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive winter temperatures down to about -40°F and can tolerate summer temperatures up to 95°F. However, extreme temperatures on either end can damage the plant, so it’s important to provide protection during harsh winter conditions and ensure adequate shade and moisture during intense summer heat.

Pruning

Plantain lilies benefit from pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves and spent flower stalks to maintain a tidy appearance. Cut away these parts at the base without damaging the crown of the plant. Pruning is often done in early spring or as needed throughout the growing season to clean up the appearance of the plant. Additionally, removing old foliage in the fall after a frost can help to discourage pests and disease.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Plantain Lilies thrive in a well-draining soil mix that's high in organic matter. A good recipe for Hosta 'Gold Standard' would include equal parts of garden soil, compost, and peat moss or pine bark fines to ensure moisture retention and aeration. The ideal soil pH for Hosta 'Gold Standard' is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Regular amending with organic material will keep the soil fertile and suitable for this plant.

Repotting

Plantain Lilies typically do not require frequent repotting and can remain in the same spot for several years. Hosta 'Gold Standard' should be repotted or divided only when it becomes overly crowded, approximately every 3 to 5 years. This minimizes disturbance to the root system and ensures the plant continues to thrive.

Humidity & Misting

Plantain Lilies prefer average to high humidity levels. Hosta 'Gold Standard' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions but thrives best when humidity is maintained at a moderate level, particularly during hot, dry summers. No misting is needed; however, a mulch can help maintain adequate soil moisture that contributes to local humidity around the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Plantain Lilies in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in shade to part sun, amend soil with organic matter.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Hosta 'Gold Standard' emerges from dormancy in early spring when the soil warms, initially displaying rolled-up foliage that unfurls into broad, variegated leaves. During late spring to early summer, the plant's growth accelerates, with leaves reaching their full size and the characteristic gold and green variegation becoming pronounced. By mid to late summer, it produces tall flower scapes that bear lavender or white funnel-shaped flowers, attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. After flowering, the plant focuses energy on root and foliage growth until the first frost. As temperatures drop in the fall, the Hosta 'Gold Standard' enters a state of senescence, with foliage dying back to the ground and the plant returning to dormancy. Throughout winter, the roots survive underground, storing energy to begin the cycle anew the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer

• The Hosta 'Gold Standard', commonly referred to as Gold Standard Hosta, is often propagated in the spring or early fall by division. This popular method involves carefully lifting the entire plant from the ground with a spade or garden fork. Once lifted, the clump should be divided into smaller sections by either pulling the crowns apart by hand or by using a knife to cut through the tough center. Each division should have at least two or three shoots and a portion of the root system. The divisions can then be replanted into prepared soil, maintaining the same depth at which they were originally growing, and watered thoroughly. Within a few weeks, the new divisions will establish themselves, developing into mature plants over the course of the growing season.