Sempervivum tectorum, commonly known as hens and chicks, is a popular succulent plant grown for its rosette pattern of leaves and ease of propagation. With proper care, these hardy plants are easy to grow both indoors and outdoors. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to successfully grow hens and chicks.
Choosing the Right Location
When choosing where to grow hens and chicks, the most important consideration is sunlight. These succulents prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Outdoors
Outdoors, select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. South or west-facing locations are ideal. The soil should be very well-draining to prevent rot. Amend clay soils with sand or small gravel to improve drainage.
Indoors
Indoors, place hens and chicks near a bright sunny window. South, east or west-facing windows are best. A grow light can supplement natural sunlight in low light conditions.
Using the Right Soil
Hens and chicks need a loose, gritty soil that drains quickly.
Outdoors
Amend garden soil with coarse sand, pumice or perlite to improve drainage. The ideal mix is 60% soil and 40% amendments.
Indoors
Use a cactus potting mix or make your own blend with equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, perlite and small gravel or pumice.
Soil should be dry between waterings. Add a layer of gravel at the bottom of pots to improve drainage.
Planting Hens and Chicks
Hens and chicks can be planted from cuttings, offsets or purchased plants.
Offsets
Remove an offset by gently twisting and pulling from the parent plant. Allow to dry for 2-3 days before planting in well-draining soil. Bury just below soil surface.
Cuttings
Take a 2-3 inch cutting from a leaf, dry for 2 days and place cutting in soil with 1 inch buried. Roots and new rosettes will sprout.
Purchased Plants
Plant purchased hens and chicks at the same soil depth as the nursery container. Water well and let soil dry between waterings.
Caring for Hens and Chicks
With proper care, hens and chicks are easy to maintain. Follow these tips:
- Water thoroughly only when soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize during the growing season using a balanced succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Remove dead leaves and spent flower stalks close to the plant.
- Repot when plants outgrow containers, in spring or fall.
- Protect outdoor plants from hard freezes and frost.
- Provide bright light indoors, ideally 6+ hours of direct sun daily.
- Propagate by gently removing offsets or taking leaf cuttings.
Common Problems and Solutions
Here are some common issues seen in hens and chicks and how to resolve them:
Leggy growth – Not enough sunlight. Provide more direct sunlight daily.
Rotting – Overwatering. Allow soil to fully dry between waterings.
Leaf discoloration – Too much sunlight. Move to partial shade.
No new growth – Soil drained poorly or plant is rootbound. Repot in gritty, well-draining mix.
Pests – Mealybugs, aphids. Remove with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Frost damage – Protect plants when outdoor temps drop below freezing.
Tips for Growing Beautiful Hens and Chicks
Follow these tips for your best crop of hens and chicks:
- Give plants 6+ hours of direct sun daily. Morning sun is best.
- Use terra cotta pots for better evaporation. Add gravel layer for drainage.
- Allow soil to fully dry between thorough waterings.
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Repot when rootbound every 2-3 years in spring or fall.
- Propagate new plants from offsets and leaf cuttings.
- Protect outdoor plants from frost and freezes.
- Remove dead leaves and spent flowers as they appear.
- Rotate indoor plants periodically to promote even growth.
Conclusion
With proper sunlight, well-draining soil, moderate watering and good airflow, hens and chicks are one of the easiest succulents to grow. Their colorful rosettes and charming offsets make them ideal for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Follow the tips above and enjoy a thriving crop of these delightful succulents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sun do hens and chicks need?
Hens and chicks need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Morning sun is ideal. They can grow in partial shade but may become leggy.
How often should you water hens and chicks?
Only water when the soil is completely dry. The frequency depends on climate, soil, sun exposure and other factors. Allowing the soil to dry between waterings prevents rot.
What temperature is too cold for hens and chicks outdoors?
Temperatures below 25°F (-4°C) can damage hens and chicks. Protect outdoor plants once nighttime temperatures drop below freezing.
How do you propagate new hens and chicks?
The easiest way is by removing and replanting offsets from the parent plant. You can also take 2-3 inch leaf cuttings, allow to callous for 2 days, then bury 1 inch of the cutting to root.
Why are my hens and chicks turning brown?
If inner leaves turn brown, it is likely due to overwatering. If leaf tips turn brown, it may be due to sunburn or dry air. Move to partial shade or increase humidity slightly.
How often should you fertilize hens and chicks?
Fertilize monthly during the active growing season using a balanced succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength. No fertilizer is needed in winter when plants are dormant.
Should I bring hens and chicks indoors for winter?
In cold climates, you can dig up plants and repot them to overwinter indoors. Provide as much sun as possible. Keep barely moist. Return outside in spring.
What potting mix is best for hens and chicks?
Use a cactus potting mix or create your own mix with equal parts potting soil, perlite, coarse sand and gravel or pumice. The mix should be very fast draining.
Why are bugs attracted to my hens and chicks?
Pests like mealybugs and aphids may infest plants. Isolate and treat immediately with insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays. Don’t let bugs spread to other plants.
How do I get rid of mold on the soil of my hens and chicks?
Mold or fungus on the soil is caused by overly moist conditions. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Sprinkle cinnamon on the soil to inhibit mold growth.