Where to Plant Hens and Chicks

Introduction

Hens and chicks, also known as Sempervivum, are a type of succulent that are easy to grow and care for. They get their name from their growth habit: the 'hen' produces small offshoots called 'chicks'. These plants are a popular choice for rock gardens, container gardens, and as groundcover. If you're interested in planting hens and chicks in your garden, there are a few key things to consider.

Light Requirements

One of the most important things to consider when planting hens and chicks is the amount of light they need. These plants prefer full sun to partial shade, and they won't do well in areas that are constantly in shade. If you're planting hens and chicks in a container, make sure that the container is in a location that gets plenty of sunlight.

Soil Requirements

Another important consideration is the type of soil hens and chicks need to thrive. These plants prefer well-draining soil that is on the sandy side. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage. Hens and chicks are also tolerant of slightly acidic soil, with a pH around 6.0. However, they don't do well in soil that is too alkaline.

Watering Requirements

While hens and chicks are drought-tolerant, they still need regular watering to thrive. During the growing season, water your hens and chicks once or twice a week, depending on the weather. If it's hot and dry, water them more frequently. In the winter, when growth slows down, you can reduce watering to once a month or so. Just make sure the soil doesn't dry out completely.

Container Gardening

Hens and chicks are a great choice for container gardening, and they look especially attractive in terracotta pots. When planting in a container, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with drainage holes. You can also mix different varieties of hens and chicks in the same container for a fun, colorful display. In the summer, you can even move your containers to different locations to create a new look in your garden.

Groundcover

Hens and chicks are also a popular choice for groundcover, especially in rock gardens. When planting as groundcover, space the plants about 6-12 inches apart to allow for spreading. Keep in mind that hens and chicks don't do well in areas that are constantly wet, so make sure the soil is well-draining. The succulent leaves of hens and chicks can also help prevent erosion in sloped areas.

Care and Maintenance

Hens and chicks are generally low-maintenance plants, but there are a few things you can do to keep them looking their best. Remove any dead leaves or chicks as needed, and make sure to fertilize once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Hens and chicks will also benefit from occasional division, which can be done in the spring or fall. Dividing the plants will encourage new growth and can also help control their spread.

Conclusion

Hens and chicks are a versatile and easy-to-care-for succulent that are an excellent choice for both container gardening and groundcover. With the right light, soil, and watering conditions, these plants can thrive in a variety of locations. Whether you're looking to add some color to your rock garden or you want to create a fun container display, hens and chicks are a great choice.