Beware! Hosta are for the most part pest and disease free. Other than foliar nematodes, gardeners can usually buy hosta and not have to worry about bringing harmful stuff into their gardens. Unfortunately, that is no longer true. There is now an affliction that's spreading like wildfire. It's Hosta Virus HVX. Plants are appearing in the Cincinnati area at some of the large national stores that are infected with it. Leaves may appear mottled, blotchy or spotted. They are not ‘sports’ and may actually make the plant more attractive. Don’t panic! This disease is not easily transmitted but it does need to be controlled. You can go to the Hosta Library site to get more information and see examples of it. If you find plants in a store, notify the County Extension Agent (Joe Boggs) immediately. Also tell the vendor about it. They may or may not do something about it. Hosta Library County Extension Agent There is an excellent article on Virus X with references and pictures at: Hosta Virus X