Frances Williams Hosta, a classic perennial plant prized for its striking foliage, adds elegance and texture to any garden landscape. Here’s a detailed description along with key features:

Description: Frances Williams Hosta, scientifically known as Hosta ‘Frances Williams’, is a robust herbaceous perennial plant renowned for its large, heart-shaped leaves and impressive size. Originating from Japan, this hosta cultivar is a popular choice among gardeners for its lush and vibrant foliage.

Key Features:

• Color:
  • Variegated foliage with deep blue-green centers and irregular golden-yellow margins.
• Fragrance:
  • Non-fragrant.
• Wildlife and Pest Resistance:
  • Deer resistant.
  • Slugs and snails may occasionally feed on the foliage.
• Planting Zone Information:
  • USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9.
• Sun Preferences:
  • Partial to full shade; prefers filtered sunlight.
• Drought Tolerance:
  • Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture but can withstand short periods of drought once established.

Planting Instructions (Bareroot):

1. Prepare the planting area: Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial to full shade. Clear the area of weeds and debris.
2. Soak the bareroot: Before planting, soak the bareroot hosta in water for a few hours to rehydrate the roots.
3. Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots comfortably. Make sure the hole is slightly larger than the root ball.
4. Planting:
   • Place the hosta in the center of the hole, ensuring that the crown (where the roots meet the stem) is at ground level.
   • Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots as you go to remove air pockets.
5. Watering:
   • Water the newly planted hosta thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture to the roots.
6. Mulching:
   • Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
7. Maintenance:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the plant’s establishment period.
   • Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth.
   • Monitor for pests, particularly slugs and snails, and take appropriate measures if needed.
8. Division:
   • Hostas can be divided every few years to rejuvenate the plant and propagate new ones. Divide in early spring or late summer for best results.