‘Hands Up’ Hosta is a distinctive cultivar, sought after for its unique visual appeal in shade gardens. Its upright growth habit, resembling hands reaching skyward, provides a dramatic accent. This hosta offers a striking departure from typical mounding forms, making it a focal point in any landscape. This guide explores the specific needs of ‘Hands Up’ Hosta to help it flourish.
Understanding ‘Hands Up’ Hosta
‘Hands Up’ Hosta is a unique herbaceous perennial, originating as a sport of the popular ‘Praying Hands’ hosta. It is characterized by its upright, tightly folded, and twisted leaves, which are thick and rubbery. The foliage is deep green with a prominent, wide creamy-yellow or gold margin, creating a striking contrast.
Individual leaves can measure up to 22 cm long by 9.7 cm wide, supported by strong, near-green petioles. The plant forms a compact, vertical clump, reaching a mature height of about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) with a spread of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm). In mid to late summer, lavender, bell-shaped flowers emerge on tall scapes that can extend up to 24 inches (60 cm) above the foliage.
Essential Care for ‘Hands Up’ Hosta
Light Requirements
‘Hands Up’ Hosta thrives in shaded or partially shaded environments. It tolerates some morning sun, but intense afternoon sunlight can scorch leaves and dull their color. A location receiving 5-6 hours of filtered or early morning sun is ideal, as some morning light enhances leaf coloration and promotes flowering.
Soil Needs
This hosta performs best in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH ranges from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, between 6.5 and 7.5. Incorporating compost, leaf mold, or well-rotted manure improves drainage and nutrient content.
Watering Guidelines
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Hands Up’ Hosta. The plant requires about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, from rainfall or irrigation. Deep watering encourages a robust root system. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry before evening. While hostas appreciate moisture, soggy soil can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing Tips
‘Hands Up’ Hosta is not a heavy feeder, but benefits from nutritional support. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as compost or well-rotted manure, in early spring before new growth emerges provides sufficient nutrients. For additional feeding, a balanced granular fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10 can be applied in spring as leaves emerge. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this encourages tender new growth vulnerable to frost.
Temperature and Hardiness
‘Hands Up’ Hosta is a hardy perennial, thriving in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9. These plants require a period of cold temperatures during winter for dormancy. Insufficient winter chill or prolonged dry air can limit their growth in warmer regions.
Optimal Planting and Placement
The best time to plant ‘Hands Up’ Hosta is in early to mid-spring, allowing establishment before summer heat. Planting can also occur in late summer, provided it is at least six weeks before the first hard frost. Ensure adequate spacing, 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) apart, to accommodate its mature upright spread.
This hosta’s upright form suits various garden applications. It serves as a focal point in a shady border, in mass plantings for textural interest, or as an accent in containers. Its appearance allows it to stand out, even in smaller spaces.
Common Problems and Solutions
Slugs and snails are frequent challenges, causing irregular holes and slime trails on leaves. Manage these pests using beer traps or by removing hiding places like leaf litter. Deer are another common pest, often browsing heavily on hosta foliage.
Fungal issues, such as crown rot, can occur in overly wet or poorly draining conditions, leading to yellowing foliage and stunted growth. Ensuring well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering prevents these problems. Hosta Virus X (HVX) causes mottled, puckered, or necrotic leaves; infected plants should be removed and disposed of to prevent spread, as there is no cure.
Winter Preparation
As temperatures drop in the fall, ‘Hands Up’ Hosta enters dormancy, with foliage turning yellow and eventually dying back. This process conserves energy in its roots for the following spring. Reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy and stop fertilizing by late summer.
After the first hard frost, when leaves have completely died back, removing spent foliage helps reduce overwintering sites for pests and diseases. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or straw, around the base of the plant provides insulation and protects the root system in colder zones.