They grow under walnut trees and survive through wet and dry conditions, including dry shade conditions. Hostas come in a multitude of colors, shapes and sizes compared to what was available twenty years ago. They grow in almost any degree of light, though gardeners will notice differences in color and size when growing the same variety in different lights and generally grow in any good garden soil. Some hostas have unique properties such as sun tolerance, pest resistance, large fragrant blossoms or a stoloniferous habit. These traits make them more versatile and desirable for certain areas, such as walkways, decks, patios or slopes.
Most perennials reach their mature size in two to three years.
Mulching and spacing plants so that they just touch or overlap a little at maturity helps make weeding easier. Used appropriately, they are beautiful and well worth the little extra care they need to be happy.