Frances Williams

Frances Williams Hostas are a popular perennial plant known for their large, attractive blue-green leaves with golden-yellow margins. To grow and care for these hostas, plant them in a location with dappled shade or morning sun, as the leaves can burn in the direct afternoon sunlight. Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal.

Space the plants about 36 inches apart to accommodate their mature size. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, and keep an eye out for pests like slugs and snails.

The optimal time to plant Frances Williams Hostas is in the spring or fall. Planting in the spring allows the hostas to establish a healthy root system before the warmer summer months, while fall planting gives them a head start for the following growing season.

If planting in the fall, make sure to plant at least 4-6 weeks before the first hard frost to give the plants enough time to establish themselves.

Frances Williams Hostas are known for their impressive size and bold foliage. These hostas can grow up to 24 inches tall and spread to a width of 36-48 inches when fully mature.

The large, heart-shaped leaves can reach up to 12 inches long and 10 inches wide, making this variety an excellent choice for filling in shaded areas or as a focal point in a woodland garden.

While no hosta variety is entirely immune to slug damage, Frances Williams Hostas are considered to be moderately slug-resistant due to their thicker, corrugated leaves.

To further protect your hostas from slugs and snails, consider using organic slug control methods such as diatomaceous earth, crushed eggshells, or copper barriers. Regularly inspect your hostas and remove any slugs or snails you find to minimize damage to the plants.

Yes, Frances Williams Hostas can be divided to propagate new plants or control their size. The best time to divide hostas is in the early spring or late summer to early fall when the plants are not in active growth.

To divide, carefully dig up the entire plant and use a sharp, clean spade or knife to cut the root ball into sections, ensuring each division has a healthy portion of roots and leaves. Replant the divisions at the same soil depth as the original plant and water them well to help establish their root systems. Dividing your hostas every few years can also promote their overall health and vigor.