The Ralph H. (Herb) and Dorothy Benedict Hosta Hillside
Once the site of a challenging rock garden, this scenic hillside east of Hidden Lake was transformed into a thriving hosta display garden in 1989. Initiated by the Michigan Hosta Society (MHS) and designed by MSU landscape architects, the garden showcases a diverse collection of shade-loving hostas, offering a rich variety of textures, shapes, and colors.
Sustained by dedicated volunteers and an endowment established in 1992, the Hosta Hillside continues to persist despite various challenges. Each year, MHS members gather for maintenance and to expand the collection, ensuring its beauty endures for future generations. Named in honor of hosta enthusiasts Ralph H. (Herb) and Dorothy Benedict, this tranquil garden remains a beloved highlight of Hidden Lake Gardens.
HOSTA HILLSIDE RESTORATION
Hidden Lake Gardens, in collaboration with the Michigan Hosta Society (MHS), has launched the Hosta Hillside and Benedict Hosta Collection Restoration Project, set to take place from Fall 2024 through Spring 2029 at the Hosta Hillside in Hidden Lake Gardens. This initiative was prompted by a significant increase in deer activity, which has severely impacted the health and appearance of the Hosta collections, many of which are nearly consumed by mid-summer. Recognizing the decline in plant vigor and the threat to the long-term sustainability of these collections, both organizations have come together to develop and implement a comprehensive plan aimed at preserving the Hostas and restoring the beauty and integrity of this cherished garden space.
To achieve this restoration, Hidden Lake Gardens and the Michigan Hosta Society have outlined a multi-phase plan that includes the following key actions:
- Phase 1
Desired hostas growing in the collection were transplanted from the hillside into 1-2 gallon containers and are now growing on in a nursery/greenhouse environment; started in fall 2024 and continuing until at least spring 2027.
- Approximately 300 potted hostas in the HLG nursery.
- Approximately 200 potted hostas in an MHS member’s nursery.ntent.
- Phase 2
Planting beds on Hosta Hillside will be emptied of other herbaceous plants and some woody plants, then the beds will be amended with compost, leaf humus, and other organic and fertilizer materials to restore soil fertility to the beds; from spring 2026 until at least spring of 2027.
- Phase 3
Hosta beds outlined with stone edging will be adjusted and reset where needed for soil retention and aesthetic appearance reasons; fall 2026 and spring 2027.
- Phase 4
Pathways through the Hillside will be evaluated, and adjustments will be made to at least some paths for easier access for visitors, gardening staff and volunteers, and occasional carts or service vehicles; to be completed by spring 2027.
- Phase 5
The limited existing irrigation system will be evaluated and updated as needed; spring 2026 until at least spring 2027.
- Phase 6
Signage, plant labels, and mapping will be updated for easier identification of plants, educational information, and wayfinding, beginning with replanting in 2027 and ongoing.
- Phase 7
A fence to keep deer out of the collection but allow access to visitors, staff, and volunteers will be erected by spring 2027.
To support this project, please visit MSU Giving. Your support helps ensure that Hidden Lake Gardens remains a place of beauty, learning, and preservation for generations to come.
