Need a big blue-leaved hosta for your shade garden? Try Bressingham blue!
Bressingham Blue hosta is a large variety with matte blue leaves and white flowers in midsummer. This plant grows best in partial to full shade. While it thrives in well-drained soil, it is also tolerant of clay soil. Mature plants reach about 4 feet wide and 2 feet tall. Bressingham blue hosta can be grown in zones 3-9.
Bressingham Blue hosta basics
The ‘Bressingham Blue’ hosta is renowned for its strikingly large, heart-shaped leaves with a rich, deep blue color, adding a bold statement to any shade garden. This variety is notable for its substantial size, forming an impressive, dense mound that works well as a focal point in landscape designs.
Along with its visual appeal, ‘Bressingham Blue’ is appreciated for its hardiness and the pale lavender flowers it produces in early summer, which add an extra layer of charm to its already majestic appearance. This is one of the best blue varieties of hosta plants to grow in your garden.
Where to plant Bressingham blue hosta
When you’re ready to plant your Bressingham blue hosta, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, these plants need partial to full shade for the best leaf color (especially if the blue is to last until autumn). They also prefer well-drained soil but can tolerate clay soil. This plant is hardy in zones 3-9, so be sure to check your zone before planting.
When to plant Bressingham Blue hosta
The best time to plant Bressingham Blue hosta is in the spring or fall. This will give the plant time to establish itself before the hot summer months or the cold winter months. If you do have to plant it during the summer, be sure to water very frequently for six weeks after planting.
How to plant Bressingham Blue hosta
When you’re ready to plant, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the pot your plant is in. Also, make sure the overall garden space is large enough to eventually accommodate the mature diameter of about 4 feet wide.
Place your plant in the hole and backfill it with rich soil. Be sure to firm the soil around the plant so that it is stable. Water your plant well and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.
How to care for Bressingham Blue hosta
Caring for Bressingham Blue hosta is quite easy. Be sure to water them regularly during the first growing season to help them establish a strong root system. You can fertilize your plant in the spring if you like with a slow-release fertilizer.
In terms of sunlight, ‘Bressingham Blue’ thrives in partial to full shade. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as too much sun can scorch the leaves. This variety has its best leaf color when grown in shade.
All hostas prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Regular watering is key, especially during dry periods. Ensure the soil remains evenly moist, watering deeply to encourage root growth. Always water the soil around the base of the plant, not the foliage.
Feed ‘Bressingham Blue’ in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support its growth. A second application can be made after the flowers bloom.
Watch for slugs and snails, which are common pests for hostas. Use organic slug bait or barriers if necessary. ‘Bressingham Blue’ is generally resistant to deer and rabbits.
In colder climates, mulch around the base in fall to protect the roots during winter. Hostas die back in winter, so trim back the foliage after it fades.
By following these care tips, your ‘Bressingham Blue’ hosta should thrive, adding beautiful blue hues and lush texture to your shade garden.
How to propagate hostas
Division is the easiest way to propagate this plant. This can also help boost the health of the plant. Divide ‘Bressingham Blue’ every 3-5 years in early spring or late summer to maintain plant health and vigor.
You can divide your plant in the spring or fall. To do this, dig up your plant and carefully divide it into sections with a sharp knife. Replant the divisions immediately and water them well.
Companion plants for Bressingham Blue hosta
Bressingham blue hosta is a beautiful perennial that can add color and texture to any garden. This plant does well when planted with other shade perennials, such as ferns, astilbe, and foxglove. Hosta flowers also attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden.
Pests affecting large blue hostas
Some garden pests do affect Bressingham Blue hosta. Fortunately, this variety is quite slug-resistant due to the thick leathery leaves. However, slugs and snails can still cause damage if they are present in large numbers.
Other pests that may affect Bressingham Blue hosta include aphids, caterpillars, and Japanese beetles. These pests can be controlled with organic pesticides or by hand picking them off the plant.
Diseases affecting Bressingham Blue hosta
Bressingham blue hosta is relatively disease-resistant. However, some diseases that can affect these plants include powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases are usually caused by too much moisture on the leaves or in the soil. If you notice any of these diseases on your plant, be sure to remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly. You can also help prevent these diseases by planting your hosta in an area with good air circulation and providing adequate drainage for the roots.