Troubleshooting
Hosta 'On Stage' problems — and how to fix them
Hosta 'On Stage' (Hosta 'On Stage') 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
Glossy leaves with bright centres are highly attractive to slugs. Use iron phosphate-based pellets or biological control (Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita nematodes) from early spring.
Leaf scorch on yellow centres
The pale-centred leaves are vulnerable to sun damage. Provide afternoon shade in summer, especially in warmer climate zones.
Crown rot
Ensure planting site drains freely. If planting in heavy soil, raise the bed or mix in grit and compost to create a free-draining root environment.
Vine weevil
Root-feeding grubs can cause wilting and plant decline. Apply nematode-based biological control in late summer when soil temperatures are above 5°C.
Foliar nematodes
Show as brown streaks between veins; spread by water splash. Remove affected leaves and water at soil level only.
Prevent hosta 'on stage' problems before they start
Most hosta 'on stage' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hosta 'On Stage' problems — FAQ
Why is my hosta 'on stage' slug and snail damage?
Glossy leaves with bright centres are highly attractive to slugs. Use iron phosphate-based pellets or biological control (Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita nematodes) from early spring.
Why is my hosta 'on stage' leaf scorch on yellow centres?
The pale-centred leaves are vulnerable to sun damage. Provide afternoon shade in summer, especially in warmer climate zones.
Why is my hosta 'on stage' crown rot?
Ensure planting site drains freely. If planting in heavy soil, raise the bed or mix in grit and compost to create a free-draining root environment.
Why is my hosta 'on stage' vine weevil?
Root-feeding grubs can cause wilting and plant decline. Apply nematode-based biological control in late summer when soil temperatures are above 5°C.
Why is my hosta 'on stage' foliar nematodes?
Show as brown streaks between veins; spread by water splash. Remove affected leaves and water at soil level only.