Hostas are a reliable plant that we often leave alone and simply allow to grow back year after year.
They come back in early spring and are typically bigger and more spectacular than before, and, as a result we tend to take them for granted until we notice that they have problems, such as holes in their leaves.
If you do spot that your hosta plants have holes in their leaves then there are a few different reasons why this could be.
Why do hostas get holes in their leaves
One reason is simply because hostas are a popular food source for slugs and other creatures.
If you live in an area with a lot of these pests, they can quickly decimate a hosta plant.
The best way to combat this problem is to use slug bait or traps around your hostas.
Disease can cause holes in hostas
Another reason for holes in hosta leaves is disease. One common disease that affects hostas is called crown rot.
This fungal disease causes the leaves to turn yellow and then brown, and eventually the plant dies.
If you think your hostas may have crown rot, it’s important to remove any affected leaves and dispose of them.
You can also try treating the plants with a fungicide.
Wildlife can eat your hostas
The third reason for holes in hosta leaves is that some animals like to eat them.
Rabbits, deer, and voles are all known to munch on hostas.
If you have a hosta plant that’s been nibbled on, you can try using a fence or netting to keep the animals away.
You can also try using repellents, but be sure to read the instructions carefully before using them.
Holes in hostas can also be caused by chemicals
The fourth and final reason for holes in hosta leaves is chemical burn.
This can happen if you use too much fertilizer or herbicide on your hostas.
It can also happen if you accidentally spill something on them.
If you think your hostas have been burned by chemicals, try rinsing them off with water and then moving them to a different location.
You may also need to treat the plants with an antidotal solution.
Age can cause hostas to have holes
The fifth and final reason hostas may develop holes is simply age.
As hostas age, their leaves can become thin and fragile.
This makes them more susceptible to damage from pests, disease, and chemicals.
If your hostas are getting old, you can try dividing them to make new plants.
You can also try giving them a little extra TLC to help them stay healthy and strong.
Final words
Holes in hosta leaves are usually not a serious problem, but it’s important to identify the cause so that you can take steps to prevent it from happening and to reduce the risk of further damage to your plants.
If you think your hostas are being eaten by pests, try using slug bait or traps.
If you think they have crown rot, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them.
And if you think they’ve been nibbled on by animals, use a fence or netting to keep the critters away.
Finally, if you think the holes are due to age or chemicals, give your hostas a little extra TLC to help them stay healthy and strong.
