The Hosta Trail was started in 1999 with the donation of plants by MSHS members and the dedication of an expandable hosta area by MBG. In 2000,a second bed was started with plants purchased by MSHS from local nurseries Over the years, the hosta society has added many varieties and built a number of beds. Today, the Hosta Trail has 180 hosta varieties, of
which there are multiple plants of many varieties. Presently, there are more than 400 hostas, accompanied by many shade companions, such as native azaleas, heucheras, ferns and sedums. In addition to five main beds, there is a stacked-rock raised bed for miniature hostas and an entrance bed with the society’s theme plaque. All the beds in the Hosta Trail are connected by
a stone pathway. In 2003, MSHS decided to organize the hostas into beds with the educational theme based upon the geographical area where the hosta was developed or discovered. The theme “Hostas From Around the Globe” was selected and a plaque was placed in a small sign bed near the entrance to the Hosta Trail. This was quite an undertaking because it took almost two years to dig up and move the plants to their proper beds. The beds were dedicated and named: Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western, International/ Species and Miniature. Designated an Official AHS Display Garden in 2006.