Patti, for the small collection of velvety semps planted in large pot placed close to eaves of the house, I mulched with small orchid bark to help the soil from drying out too fast but the plants are in a soil with good drainage. In the larger semp bed, the dressing consist of pebble sized aquarium rocks and when it get hot and sunny, I cover the bed with a frost cloth to keep out the hot rays of the sun. I don't cover the bed during the winter anymore, per Lynn.
