Hodgson's Ligularia

What you'll need:

Hodgson's Ligularia seeds or young plants (available at garden centers)

A large pot (at least 12 inches wide) or a shaded area in your garden

Rich, moist soil (you can mix some compost into regular garden soil to enrich it)

Mulch (such as bark chips or leaf mold)

When to start:

Hodgson's Ligularia loves cooler weather and shade. The best time to plant is in early spring or fall when temperatures are mild. If you're starting with seeds, begin indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost.

Finding a good spot:

This plant thrives in partial to full shade. Avoid areas that get too much direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. If planting in pots, place them under a tree or on a shaded patio. For garden beds, choose a spot with dappled light or near taller plants that provide shade.

Tip: Hodgson's Ligularia prefers consistently moist soil, so avoid spots that dry out quickly.

If you have seeds:

1. Fill small pots or seed trays with moist soil.
2. Sprinkle the seeds lightly on top of the soil (they need light to germinate).
3. Cover them very lightly with a thin layer of soil or just press them gently into the surface.
4. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
5. Place the pots in a cool, shaded area.
6. Seeds will sprout in 2-3 weeks.
7. Once the seedlings grow a few leaves, transplant them to larger pots or directly into your garden.

If you have young plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
2. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill with soil and gently press down.
4. Water thoroughly after planting.

Planting tips:

• Space the plants about 2 feet apart if you're planting more than one.
• If using pots, ensure they have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• Add mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Watering:

• Hodgson's Ligularia loves moisture! Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Check the soil often—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.
• Water deeply so the roots get enough moisture.

Feeding time:

• Feed your plant with a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to early fall).
• You can also sprinkle some compost around the base of the plant in early spring for an extra nutrient boost.

Shade and temperature:

• This plant enjoys cool, shady spots. If it gets too much sun, the leaves may wilt or burn.
• During hot summer days, make sure the soil stays moist to protect the roots from overheating.

Minor problem solving:

• Yellow leaves? This could mean too much sun or not enough water. Move the plant to a shadier spot or increase watering.
• Slugs or snails? These pests love moist environments like the ones Hodgson's Ligularia enjoys. Pick them off by hand or use organic slug repellents.
• Wilting leaves? This might mean the soil is drying out too much—water more frequently.

Hodgson's Ligularia isn’t grown for fruits or vegetables, so you won’t be harvesting anything edible. Instead, you’ll enjoy its beautiful foliage and vibrant yellow flowers!

When to enjoy the blooms:

• Flowers typically appear in late summer to early fall.
• They’re tall and striking, adding a splash of color to shaded areas.

How to care for the flowers:

• Once the flowers fade, cut the flower stalks back to encourage the plant to focus on healthy leaf growth.
• After flowering, continue to water and care for the plant as usual—it’ll come back stronger next year.

Winter care:

• In colder climates, the plant may die back to the ground in winter. Don’t worry! It will regrow in spring.
• Add a layer of mulch over the soil in late fall to protect the roots during winter.

Q: Can I grow Hodgson's Ligularia in full sun?

A: Not really. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. It’s happiest in partial to full shade, especially in hotter climates.

Q: Why do the leaves look droopy even though I water regularly?

A: Droopy leaves could mean the plant is still getting too much sun. Try moving it to a shadier spot or providing more consistent moisture.

Q: Should I divide my Hodgson's Ligularia?

A: Yes, every few years in early spring. Dividing helps keep the plant healthy and encourages fresh growth. Just dig it up carefully, split the root ball into smaller sections, and replant them.

Q: My plant has no flowers. What should I do?

A: This could be due to insufficient nutrients or too much shade. Make sure the plant is getting enough food (fertilizer) and a bit of indirect light, especially in the weeks leading up to blooming season.

Q: Is Hodgson's Ligularia deer-resistant?

A: Yes, it’s generally considered deer-resistant because the leaves are tough and not very appealing to deer.