WHAT: June is a type of hosta favored by gardeners because of its compact habit and the lovely colors of its leaves, which emerge bright green and fade to chartreuse with blue-green margins come midsummer.
Pale lavender flowers bloom in summer.
WHY PLANT IT: While most hostas are susceptible to slug damage, the thick leaves of June are not popular with the slimy creatures.
In 2001, June was named Hosta of the Year by the American Hosta Growers Association.
WHERE: Plant June in bright shade for best results. It also grows in deep shade and full sun as long as the soil is rich and moist.
Hostas prefer damp soil, but grow well in average soil. Most hostas are drought-tolerant once established, but drought combined with full sun can result in scorched leaves.
HOW: Hostas are exceptionally hardy and easy to grow.
Divide plants when they are dormant between late fall and early spring. You may also divide them in spring, but the practice can slow down their expanding leaves and they will be smaller than usual for a season.
June works well with many other perennials, including Japanese forest grass.
Fill the ground around June’s crown with spring-flowering bulbs such as crocus and small daffodils. The new hosta leaves will unfurl and cover the fading leaves of the bulbs.
ACTUAL SIZE: Hostas take several years to reach their typical size. June can eventually reach 2 feet high and wide.
LEARN MORE: Go to www.greatplantpicks.org.
Source: Great Plant Picks
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