Troubleshooting
Hosta 'Night Before Christmas' problems — and how to fix them
Hosta 'Night Before Christmas' (Hosta 'Night Before Christmas') 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
Large, soft leaves are prime targets. The white leaf centres show damage more visibly than dark-leaved hostas. Begin slug controls in early spring before emergence.
Scorch of white leaf areas
White sections lack chloroplasts and are especially prone to sun and wind scorch. Ensure placement in sheltered partial shade.
Reversion to all-green shoots
More vigorous all-green shoots may occasionally emerge. Remove them promptly at the base to preserve the characteristic variegation of the clump.
Crown rot
Caused by waterlogging or poorly drained soil. Avoid planting in low-lying spots and water at the base rather than overhead.
Deer browsing
Deer find hosta foliage palatable. Physical barriers or repellent sprays are the most reliable deterrents.
Prevent hosta 'night before christmas' problems before they start
Most hosta 'night before christmas' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hosta 'Night Before Christmas' problems — FAQ
Why is my hosta 'night before christmas' slug and snail damage?
Large, soft leaves are prime targets. The white leaf centres show damage more visibly than dark-leaved hostas. Begin slug controls in early spring before emergence.
Why is my hosta 'night before christmas' scorch of white leaf areas?
White sections lack chloroplasts and are especially prone to sun and wind scorch. Ensure placement in sheltered partial shade.
Why is my hosta 'night before christmas' reversion to all-green shoots?
More vigorous all-green shoots may occasionally emerge. Remove them promptly at the base to preserve the characteristic variegation of the clump.
Why is my hosta 'night before christmas' crown rot?
Caused by waterlogging or poorly drained soil. Avoid planting in low-lying spots and water at the base rather than overhead.
Why is my hosta 'night before christmas' deer browsing?
Deer find hosta foliage palatable. Physical barriers or repellent sprays are the most reliable deterrents.