Sempervivum and Sedum- the Perfect Container Plants in Any Zone

I thought I would share with you some of the challenges of growing Sempervivum in our zone and in my micro climate.

After the spring snows and periods of intense frigid weather and heavy snow, we begin a cycle of alternating periods of freeze and thaw. Then we get spring and extended periods with very little natural moisture,. We also have drying winds, dense clay soil, and intense sun.


In my planting area I have dappled shade, which at least keeps them away from the intense sunlight we get. I tried a small rock ground area. Some survived, but others did not.


Other growers have adjusted their soil to provide an acceptable growing environment for Sempervivum, but this requires the addition of fast-draining amendments, such as sand and gravel or chicken grit.

A nearby nursery is my inspiration


I do not have room to build large aboveground raised beds, which I am told are the very best, so I have chosen to grow in pots.

But what type is best for me? I tried natural rock.This works pretty well.


Plastic planters dried out over the winter.


Wood or stumps were great for one season.


Man-made Rock - Hypertufa:

Thick Walled



Thin Walled


Pinch pots


High fired porcelain


Cast Iron


Styrofoam


Clay Terra Cotta


Truly, I have tried them all: fiberglass, glass, and iron, as well as all the above.

I have found that the thick-walled hypertufa is the best for overwintering sempervivums in my location. The tiny thick-walled hypertufa pinch pots do well also.



Which types of containers do you use for your Sempervivum?