Jerry Van Der Kolk has been involved directly with the Horticulture Industry for over 20 years. He now devotes his time to growing hard-to-find hostas for hosta collectors via his popular website http://www.DirectSourceHostas.com.
Every year around the New Year Hosta plant enthusiasts begin to get that familiar itch. After the busy Holidays wear off it is time to start thinking about Spring! If you have any sort of green thumb you know exactly what I am talking about.
I am amazed every year with all the new plant introductions. Sometimes I wonder where all these new plants come from? Most of all I am curious where are people going to plant all these new plants? I guess I should not worry about it because it seems the Horticulture Business is booming.
So what is new in the world of hostas for 2007? There are many new varieties available for this year so I will take the time to highlight a few of my favorites. Remember the word favorites is a very loose term when you are dealing with a hosta collector! I like so many different hostas it is difficult to just have a few favorites. Here is my list of favorites for 2007.
American Icon - This hosta has very large dark green leaves with a wide gold edge. Although I have not grown this variety for more than 1 year it is suggested to grow up to 6 feet wide! The big heart shaped leaves create a dramatic display as a result of the sharp contrasts.
Dragon Tails - I have grown quite a few different varieties of hostas over the years but this is one of the brightest yellows I have ever seen. A fast growing clump of long, narrow leaves. These bright yellow leaves have a wonderful wavy edge which really adds some dimension to this small hosta. Definitely consider this hosta if you are looking for something small and tidy with great eye appeal.
Frosted Dimples - This is a classic looking hosta with the normal green leaves outlined with a creamy gold border. Graceful leaves are heart shaped and form a healthy looking clump. With some maturity these leaves will display a pebble like surface giving the plant a good texture feel. Although similar to many other hostas this variety tends to both grow well and hold its coloration throughout the season.
Journeys End - If I had to use only one word to describe this variety it would be WOW! An amazing sport which looks like the reverse color patterns of American Icon mentioned above. Large heart shaped leaves with gently ruffled edges make this hosta an instant hit. Exceptional color contrasts mesmerize all who happen to catch a glance of this beauty. I have grown this beauty and it performs wonderful.
Well there you have it. 4 New Hostas for 2007. Make sure you at least see a picture of these 4 hostas. One of them may strike your fancy for your 2007 garden plantings.
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