Perennial

When to Plant Hostas in Pennsylvania

The king of shade gardens. Hostas come in hundreds of varieties and get more beautiful with each passing year.

The Short Answer

Pennsylvania is excellent hosta country — the state's four-season climate, cold winters for dormancy, and abundant shade from mature hardwood forests create ideal conditions across most of the state.

Pennsylvania Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Pennsylvania you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern Pennsylvania 5a, 5b, 6a May 5 - May 20 Sep 20 - Oct 5
Central Pennsylvania 5b, 6a, 6b Apr 25 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 15
Philadelphia Region 7a, 7b Apr 5 - Apr 20 Oct 15 - Nov 5

Hostas Planting Schedule for Pennsylvania

Northern Pennsylvania (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)

Average last frost: May 5 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5

Transplant Outside
0 wks after frost

Central Pennsylvania (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)

Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15

Transplant Outside
0 wks after frost

Philadelphia Region (Zones 7a, 7b)

Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 5

Transplant Outside
0 wks after frost

Growing Hostas in Pennsylvania

State-Specific Growing Tips

Plant from late April through September. Pennsylvania's diverse shade conditions support hostas well. The state's naturally acidic to neutral soils are in hostas' preferred range. Mulch for moisture retention. Southeast PA's warmer conditions may require more shade than central or northern PA.

Recommended Varieties for Pennsylvania

The full range thrives in Pennsylvania. Miniatures to giants, every color combination. Pennsylvania hosta societies and specialty nurseries offer extensive selections.

Common Challenges in Pennsylvania

Slugs — the eternal hosta challenge. Deer browse is significant in rural areas. Hosta virus X from contaminated nursery stock.

Growing Tips

Plant divisions or nursery plants in spring or fall. Slugs are the main enemy — use iron phosphate bait. Mulch to retain moisture.

Companion Planting

Plant hostas alongside these companions for better growth:

Ferns Astilbe Heuchera

The Bottom Line

Hostas can be grown successfully in Pennsylvania with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Northern Pennsylvania gardeners work with a last frost around May 5 - May 20, while Philadelphia Region sees frost end around Apr 5 - Apr 20. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Hostas Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Pennsylvania Planting Calendar All plants for Pennsylvania Hostas in Alabama Alabama planting dates Hostas in Alaska Alaska planting dates Hostas in Arizona Arizona planting dates Hostas in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates