CIHS Columnist's  Message

CIHS Columnist's Message from the Current Newsletter - May 2026

Possibilities from a Past President:

I so enjoy watching my hosta emerge and grow during the spring. We’ve had some volatile temperature swings, and I had some frost damage on some leaves. Those damaged leaves can be picked off. I especially like the yellow foliage hosta like Coast to Coast. Such a bright spot in the garden. Now is the time to treat for slugs and fertilize. I only fertilize plants that I deem not achieving their potential. This year I am going to do more to rescue hosta that may be diminishing in size. You can certainly dig up failing hosta and give them a better location. My problem is mainly competition with other plants. Now is an excellent time to give your plants the space they need to develop. 

I can’t wait to visit the hosta gardens of our members who have volunteered to host a meeting. Each garden is so individual and a treasure. Please consider your garden for a 2027 club visit. Let Jane Mottram know as she is looking for volunteers. Sharing a garden is so worthwhile. Sharing hosta is even more fun. I’ve started some seeds—better late than never and plan to pot some plants for our auction. Enjoy our hosta club’s 2026 season by attending our meetings. I will see you there! 

Ella Maxwell, past president