Troubleshooting
Hosta 'Pineapple Upside Down Cake' problems — and how to fix them
Hosta 'Pineapple Upside Down Cake' (Hosta 'Pineapple Upside Down Cake') 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, rippled leaves collect moisture and provide ideal hiding spots for slugs. Begin controls at the first sign of shoot emergence in spring.
Wind damage
The large, rippled leaves can be torn by strong winds. Site in a sheltered location or use a windbreak planting of shrubs.
Crown rot
Waterlogging in autumn or winter causes crown rotting at the base. Ensure free drainage at the planting site.
Leaf spot
Fungal leaf spots develop in persistently wet conditions. Improve air circulation, remove affected leaves, and avoid wetting foliage.
Vine weevil
Grubs feed on roots and can cause rapid collapse, particularly in container specimens. Apply nematode treatment in late summer.
Prevent hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' problems before they start
Most hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hosta 'Pineapple Upside Down Cake' problems — FAQ
Why is my hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' slug and snail damage?
Large, rippled leaves collect moisture and provide ideal hiding spots for slugs. Begin controls at the first sign of shoot emergence in spring.
Why is my hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' wind damage?
The large, rippled leaves can be torn by strong winds. Site in a sheltered location or use a windbreak planting of shrubs.
Why is my hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' crown rot?
Waterlogging in autumn or winter causes crown rotting at the base. Ensure free drainage at the planting site.
Why is my hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' leaf spot?
Fungal leaf spots develop in persistently wet conditions. Improve air circulation, remove affected leaves, and avoid wetting foliage.
Why is my hosta 'pineapple upside down cake' vine weevil?
Grubs feed on roots and can cause rapid collapse, particularly in container specimens. Apply nematode treatment in late summer.