Bone meal is a common garden amendment. This article explores its use for hostas, offering practical insights.
Understanding Bone Meal
Bone meal is an organic fertilizer derived from animal bones, ground into powder or granules. It is valued for its high phosphorus (12-16%) and calcium (12-25%) content. It contains very little nitrogen (1-4%) and no potassium.
As a slow-release fertilizer, bone meal gradually supplies nutrients over several months. Its general benefits for plants include promoting strong root development, enhancing flowering, and improving overall plant vigor. The calcium in bone meal also contributes to strong cell walls and improved soil structure.
Hosta Nutritional Requirements
Hostas thrive in rich, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil, ideally 6.0-7.0 pH. Organic matter (compost, well-rotted manure) enhances soil fertility, improves drainage, and retains moisture.
Hostas need balanced primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Nitrogen is essential for lush foliage. Phosphorus aids root development, energy transfer, and plant health. Potassium contributes to vigor, disease resistance, and stress tolerance.
Bone Meal for Hostas: Benefits, Application, and Considerations
Bone meal benefits hostas due to its high phosphorus, supporting robust root systems. This is essential for newly planted or struggling specimens. Its calcium also strengthens plant cell walls, contributing to overall plant health.
To apply, mix bone meal into the soil during planting or use as a top dressing. For new plantings, incorporate 1-2 tablespoons per hole. For established hostas, sprinkle evenly around the plant and gently work into the surface soil, avoiding root disturbance. Water thoroughly after application.
Bone meal releases nutrients slowly (1-4 months), so reapplication may be considered once or twice per season if a soil test indicates a need.
Despite its benefits, consider bone meal’s effectiveness in slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH below 7.0), as phosphorus becomes unavailable in alkaline conditions. While bone meal’s calcium can slightly raise soil pH, its effect is minimal. Excess phosphorus can hinder the uptake of micronutrients like iron and zinc, leading to deficiencies like yellowing leaves and stunted growth. It can also negatively impact beneficial mycorrhizal fungi.
Therefore, conducting a soil test to determine current phosphorus levels and soil pH before applying bone meal is highly recommended. If phosphorus levels are already sufficient or high, adding more bone meal would not be beneficial and could be detrimental. Another consideration is that the scent of bone meal can attract animals like dogs, raccoons, or other scavengers, which may dig up plants in search of the odor source. To mitigate this, ensure the bone meal is thoroughly incorporated into the soil rather than left on the surface. If soil tests reveal high phosphorus or an unsuitable pH, alternative organic amendments that provide balanced nutrition, or those focusing on nitrogen and potassium, would be more appropriate for hostas.