The tattered edges on variegated hosta are usually from a combination of causes.
1. Leaf spot fungus. We see dark spots on your leaves that are typical of fungal diseases that hostas get, especially when splashed with water from irrigation systems or hoses. Water hostas deeply once a week (they are pretty drought tolerant) to avoid such fungal probems.
2. Earwig or slug damage. Both earwigs and slugs love to eat hostas and they are particularly fond of the white variegated varieties. Use a product such as Sluggo Plus from early in the season on to help with insect and slug damage. Dusting with diatomaecous earth can also help.
3. End of season environmental damage. Yes, too much sun can damage hostas but at this time of year many hosta show signs of environmental damage from sun, drought, wind, or just “it’s the end of the line weariness.” Most perennial plants begin draining their energy into their roots at this time of year and this makes various leaf-spots and other damage more noticeable. Not to worry, however, because this means the plant is doing as it should…shutting systems down and storing sugars in the roots for use in breaking dormancy next year.
Bottom line: this is nothing unusual. Relax and enjoy the fall colors.
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