Hosta hybrid 'First Frost' - First Frost Hosta

First Frost is highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are drawn to its summer blooms. Additionally, the dense foliage provides shelter for small insects and other beneficial wildlife. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid First Frost, making it an excellent choice for gardens prone to browsing by wildlife.

• Seasonality: Herbaceous perennial; dies back in winter and regrows in spring.
• Flowering Season: Mid to late summer (July-August)
• Bloom Description: First Frost produces tall scapes of pale lavender, trumpet-shaped flowers that rise above the foliage in mid to late summer. These flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, providing a late-season source of nectar.

Shade gardens – borders – under trees – mixed perennial beds – foliage contrast – containers

The leaves of Hosta 'First Frost' are heart-shaped, thick, and deeply textured. The blue-green leaves are edged with bright gold margins that gradually lighten to creamy white as the season progresses. The leaves retain their beauty and color well into the fall, even as colder temperatures approach, making this hosta a standout throughout the growing season.

Produces tall, slender stalks (scapes) bearing pale lavender, tubular flowers in midsummer. The blooms rise slightly above the foliage and are subtle yet elegant. They attract pollinators such as bees and occasionally hummingbirds.

• Planting Season: Best planted in early spring or fall when temperatures are cooler, allowing the plant to establish roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.

• Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture but doesn’t become waterlogged. Adding compost or organic matter will improve the soil’s fertility and moisture retention, which is essential for optimal growth.

• Spacing: Space plants 30-36 inches apart to allow for mature spread and to create a lush, ground-covering effect in mass plantings or borders.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
3. Backfill with soil, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
4. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning is minimal for Hosta 'First Frost'. Remove spent flowers after blooming to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage energy to return to the foliage. In late fall or early spring, cut back the dead foliage to the ground to allow new growth to emerge. Regularly remove any damaged or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance.

First Frost requires regular watering, especially during its first growing season. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering or waterlogged conditions. Established plants are more drought-tolerant but perform best with consistent moisture, particularly during hot, dry spells.

Thrives in partial shade to full shade. For optimal foliage color and texture, plant First Frost in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. While it can tolerate some sunlight, too much direct sun can cause the blue-green leaves to fade and the edges to burn.

While First Frost is primarily grown for its foliage, the tall flower spikes can be harvested for use in fresh floral arrangements. The lavender flowers add a soft, vertical element to indoor displays. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open for the best visual effect.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage. A second light feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant through the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds. Mulching also helps protect the shallow root system from temperature extremes.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: First Frost is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, slugs and snails may occasionally target the foliage, especially in damp conditions. Use slug control measures if needed to protect the leaves.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, First Frost will die back to the ground in winter. No special winter care is needed; simply cut back the dead foliage in early spring to allow fresh growth to emerge.

Hosta 'First Frost' is self-fertile, but most gardeners grow hostas for their foliage rather than seeds. Pollination occurs via bees and other insects that visit the flowers. However, seeds are rarely collected because the plant is typically propagated by division to maintain cultivar traits.

Astilbe – enhances textural contrast and thrives in similar moisture and shade conditions

Heuchera (Coral Bells) – provides colorful foliage contrast in shade

Ferns (e.g., Dryopteris, Athyrium) – ideal for woodland gardens with matching growing needs

Brunnera – offers early-season blooms and large textured leaves

Pulmonaria – pairs well in dappled shade and moist soil

Tiarella (Foamflower) – similar cultural needs, delicate flowers, and interesting foliage

Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa) – adds soft texture and golden color contrastc