Ever wondered how new Hostas are created? How hybridizers choose parents, make crosses, evaluate seedlings, and decide which plants are worthy of registration?

In this special "Best of Season 1" episode of Hosta la Vista, we're bringing together some of the most respected voices in Hosta hybridizing: David Teager, Olga Petryszyn, Don Rawson, and David Bowe.

Whether you're a longtime Hosta collector or someone who's been curious about creating your very first hybrid, this episode walks you through the entire process—from collecting pollen and making your first cross to growing seedlings and discovering that one special plant that could become the next great Hosta introduction via tissue culture.

You'll hear practical advice, hard-earned lessons, memorable stories, and the unique philosophies that have guided these accomplished breeders throughout their hybridizing journeys. Together, these four guests have introduced dozens of beloved cultivars and helped shape the future of Hosta breeding.

Topics include:
• How to get started hybridizing Hostas
• Choosing pod and pollen parents
• Growing seedlings and evaluating results
• What makes a seedling worth keeping
• How tissue culture works
• Advice for aspiring Hosta hybridizers

Want to learn even more about Hosta hybridizing? Be sure to visit David Teager's YouTube Channel, where he shares educational videos and insights from his years of experience as a hybridizer.

If you've ever dreamed of creating your own Hosta, this is the perfect place to start.

Questions, comments, or guest suggestions? Email us at hostalavistapodcast@gmail.com.

Vist our website at hostalavista.org

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