Inside The Hosta Stop: Award-Winning Seedlings, Streaked Hostas & Family-Powered Hybridizing

What started with a Father's Day gift has grown into one of the Midwest's most beloved Hosta destinations.In this episode, Betsy and Mandy welcome nearly the entire Giese family—Mike, Kelly, Michael, Christina, Carisa, Kyle, and even a few grandkids—from The Hosta Stop Gardens in Plover, Wisconsin. Together, they've built a family business that has become a must-visit destination for Hosta collectors across North America. The nursery has grown from a few hundred varieties into thousands of Hostas, companion plants, display gardens, online sales, and a thriving hybridizing program.You'll hear how Mike's fascination with streaked Hostas evolved into a serious hybridizing program, why award-winning seedling competitions have become such an important part of their Hosta journey, and what it takes to evaluate thousands of seedlings in search of the next great introduction.We also discuss their registered introduction 'Awe Snap', a sport of H.-Sugar Snap. Mike's interest in breeding fan-favorite 'Blue Jeans Bling' and how it's become a backbone of his hybridizing program. The growing collection of seedlings currently under evaluation, and the excitement of deciding which plants might someday earn an official release.Whether you know The Hosta Stop through their online sales, convention appearances, vendor booths, educational presentations, or their stunning Wisconsin display gardens, this episode takes you behind the scenes of the family, passion, and hard work that make people say, "You just Hosta Stop." Visit their website at hostastop.net or visit their Facebook seedling sales. You can also see them at many Hosta Conventions in the Vendor room. Drop by and say hi to the Giese family, they'd love to chat and catch up.Follow Hosta La Vista on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok.You can also reach us at hostalavistapodcast@gmail.com