Troubleshooting
Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' problems — and how to fix them
Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' (Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Slug and snail damage
Despite thick leaves, young emerging foliage is still at risk; apply slug control measures as soon as spikes emerge in spring.
Waterlogging
The large, moisture-hungry crown is paradoxically prone to rot if drainage is poor; improve soil structure before planting.
Leaf spot fungi
Cercospora or Colletotrichum can cause brown spots in wet seasons; improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage.
Dividing too soon
This large-leaved cultivar takes 3-5 years to reach its characteristic cupped form; premature division reduces display impact.
Deer and rabbit grazing
Both will readily strip foliage; use physical barriers or repellent sprays where wildlife pressure is high.
Prevent hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' problems before they start
Most hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' problems — FAQ
Why is my hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' slug and snail damage?
Despite thick leaves, young emerging foliage is still at risk; apply slug control measures as soon as spikes emerge in spring.
Why is my hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' waterlogging?
The large, moisture-hungry crown is paradoxically prone to rot if drainage is poor; improve soil structure before planting.
Why is my hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' leaf spot fungi?
Cercospora or Colletotrichum can cause brown spots in wet seasons; improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage.
Why is my hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' dividing too soon?
This large-leaved cultivar takes 3-5 years to reach its characteristic cupped form; premature division reduces display impact.
Why is my hosta 'abiqua drinking gourd' deer and rabbit grazing?
Both will readily strip foliage; use physical barriers or repellent sprays where wildlife pressure is high.