Hostas go dormant after a good hard freeze. Once the foliage has wilted, cut the plant to the ground. A thin layer of mulch will help to protect the roots from the fluctuation of temperatures. A good chilling period is beneficial for hostas.

Should I mulch hostas for winter?

Mulch the hostas with 3 to 4 inches (8-10 cm.) of pine needles to protect the roots from cold temperatures. This will even out the differential between cooling and heating each day, which can interrupt the necessary chilling period.

Can you leave hostas in the ground over winter?

Move hostas into an unheated garage or shed when temperatures begin to drop below freezing. Water them if temperatures warm to above freezing and the soil thaws only if it is completely dry. Set them back outdoors in the spring when temperatures warm to above freezing.