Now is the perfect time to plant hostas, and while they may not yet be available in some garden centres, they can be found in nurseries that grow their own stock. Make sure to add plenty of moisture-retaining organic matter to the planting hole.
Existing hostas should be given a dressing of bone-meal, and a good mulching with leaf-mould - if you have it - or compost, well-rotted manure or whatever is at hand. Stands of plants that are congested may be divided now so that there are about three eyes - or noses - per piece. Replant about nine inches apart in soil that has been rejuvenated with compost or well-rotted manure.
Hostas can be grown in large pots, in soil-based compost, preferably (peat-based types can dry out too readily) with a dollop of well-rotted manure in the bottom. Keep well watered. A band of Vaseline around the widest part of the pot will help keep slugs and snails at bay, according to Diana Grenfell.