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Re: [SHADEGARDENS]

Michael D. Cook wrote:
>
> At 06:28 PM 2/13/98 EST, you wrote:
> >Once a hosta leaf is deformed , by cold, for instance, it remains deformed in
> >my experience. I remove the leaf by making a clean cut just below ground
> >level.
> >
> >Clyde Crockett z5 ccredux@aol. com Indy IN
> >
> Hi, Clyde.  Weren't you the one who recommended running the lawn mower over
> frost-damaged hostas?  It seems like several people had said that mowing
> was a great way to clean up the plant and promote a flush of new, healthy
> growth.
>
> Also, someone stated a while back that if the 'bloom' or indumentum on
> hosta leaves was to protect them from sun damage, it would follow that the
> more heavily coated types would function well in the sun; however, we know
> that the opposite is the case.  I remember hearing on some robin or the
> other that it was postulated that the indumentum retarded the growth of
> fungus on leaves that transpire large amounts of water and live in the
> shade (creating perfect conditions for mildews and fungi).  Was it ever
> determined that the fungus/mildew protection factor was indeed the key to
> the survival of the characteristic?  Or should I say the survival of the
> species that have that characteristic?  Whatever; you know what I mean.
> Thanks to any hosta nut who can answer.
>
> PS to Paul Aden:  I don't know if this is a smart remark or a dumb one, but
> what is the P in P. Whiz japonica?  I only hope it is not a joke; then I
> will really feel humiliated because I didn't get it.  If a jest, make
> something up and spare my feelings!
>
> Sheila Smith
> mikecook@pipeline.com
> Z 5/6************
Shila
No one really knows for sure ehat purpose the wax coating on Hostas
serves.  There has been speculation on all the things you mentioned.  Bob
Solberg, made a good point a few weeks ago at the Chicago meeting.  That
was , that we do not know exactly what the condtions were a few thousand
years ago os so when a given species devloped it's particular charistics.
  So we may not have enough knowledge today to make the determination.  I
personally believe , that on most plants (Hostas included) that the
"bloom" (wax coat) may provide some lubrication to aid in leaf unfurling,
bloom devlopment, and fruit devlopment.
Ran Lydell
Eagle Bay Hosta Gardens
10749  Bennett Rd.
Dunkirk,  NY  14048
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