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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Pruning Hostas in the Spring
Hostas are dormant in the winter, and thus it may be easiest to prune and divide them in the spring, when many gardening tasks are being performed. When pruned or divided in the spring, the earth is cool and therefore the hosta will be slow to grow and less prone to damage. Cutting plants back after they've bloomed will force them to focus on leaf growth, rather than producing seeds.
On the Other: Pruning Hostas in the Late Fall
Pruning after the first hard freeze ensures that the plant is dormant and will not be injured by the pruning. Removing leaves now will help reduce pests like slugs and aphids, fungal infections and foliar nematode the following spring. It will also help prevent "volunteer" hostas, plants appearing from seed in unwanted places.
Bottom Line
If you intend to divide your hostas as well as cut them back, the spring is an excellent time. If you are simply cutting them back, you may want to wait until winter.
Source:
Hostahosta.com: Bob's Hosta Growing Tips
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