Hens and Chicks

We were surprised at how easily this succulent alpine perennial germinated and grew quickly into recognizable baby rosettes. Commonly known as houseleeks, they were once grown on roofs, and in historical folklore, it was believed they brought wealth and prosperity, protection from fire; especially from the Norse Thunder god, Thor who was said to throw thunderbolts down upon dwellings. In today's gardens, they can be tucked right into rocky and dry areas, requiring very little soil, or grown in pots.   200 seeds     PLANTING Sempervivum hybridum Perennial, zone 3-8 Germination: 7-21 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-80ºF Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface and press into soil, seeds need light to germinate. Cold treating the seeds aids germination Starting Indoors:  Start indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Use a growing medium of  ½ seedling mix and ½ sand. Place the pot of sowed seeds into a clear plastic bag and refrigerate for 2 weeks. Provide 70-80ºF soil temperature for germination.  Sowing Outdoors: Direct sowing is not recommended Growth Habit: Spreading rosettes Spacing: 4-8” apart Light Needs: Full sun to part sun Soil Needs: Sandy to average, well-drained  Approximate days to flower from seed: Blooms in the second or third season Uses: Flower beds, containers, rock garden, drought tolerant Care: Amend soil with compost before transplanting. Do not overwater or let them sit in waterlogged soil, the roots will rot.