There’s something regal about blue hostas.
They have presence in a shade border, and “Abiqua Drinking Gourd” is no exception. Dark blue-green leaves are described as “seersuckered” with heavy substance and the “most deeply cupped foliage” of any hosta cultivar. It also has the distinction of being named the 2014 hosta of the year.
“Abiqua Drinking Gourd” is one of nearly 20 or so named hosta varieties (and bags o’unnamed hostas) that will be available at Saturday’s 38th annual Green Scene Plant Sale.
Nearly iron-plated, few plants are as invincible and forgiving as hostas —or as popular with Green Scene patrons. Other featured blue hostas include:
“Church Mouse” — Wavy blue-green leaves of heavy substance
“Dancing Stars” — From “Dancing in the Rain,” with more vigor, crisp white centers with blue-green margins
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“Pure Heart” — Variegated sport of “Blue Mouse Ears” with blue-green margins, creamy white center
“Prairie Sky” — One of the best blues, tight clump, powdery blue, lightly cupped leaves
“Regal Supreme” — Vase-shaped clumps, frosty blue leaves
Hostas grow in well-drained, average soil enriched with slow-release fertilizer in spring. Stop fertilizing after mid-summer to prevent soft growth that encourages disease and slugs. Contrary to belief, hostas DO need water, about an inch per week; more if the weather turns hot. Water at the base of plants.
Keep new transplants moist. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and 1 ½ times as wide as the diameter. Plant the crown at soil level. Water well daily until plants are established.
Green Scene also will have some new perennials at the sale: Agastache “Tutti Fruitti” with bubble gum-scented blooms; “Winston Churchill" ed aster with yellow center; “Burgundy Red” astilbe; “Argentea” buddleia; “Ladylike” dwarf hardy lily; “Red Lad” fern; “Cheyenne Spirit” coneflower; “Pink Cloud” gaura; a variety of large-flowering clematis; “Royal Braid,” “Bella Lugosi,” Daring Deception” and “Night Embers” daylilies; and “Lime Marmalade,” Hollywood” and “Sweetheart” heuchera.