Burnt Metal with Sempervivum

by Jacki
(Grand Forks, B.C. Canada)

metal basket with Sempervivum

metal basket with Sempervivum

I found this little odd metal basket in the thrift store, which although it was painted black was really not quite my style.

I routinely check to find rustic salvage to use as planters for my succulents.

It's important to train your eye to see the possibilities when cruising around garage sales and thrift stores.

To make it more rustic, I threw it in the fire to burn off the paint, and then planted it with many different Sempervivum plugs which conveniently just fit through the holes in the sides.

The bottom is made of metal mesh, which doesn't really hold the soil in, but I didn't lose much as the roots of the plants have filled in really well and hold it in place.

I find that it needs a bit more water than most of the hen and chickens planters I have, and I keep it in the shade of some birch trees so it gets filtered shade, not intense bright sun.

I love how it has so many textures of all the different varieties.

Comments for Burnt Metal with Sempervivum

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Jun 13, 2013
 wintering
by: Royaune

Love the planter with succulents. Do you leave them in your planter during the winter? I have hardy succulents for zone4 but was wondering if it would be safe to leave them outside in the container for the entire winter.

You bet - they get no extra or special care. They are left outside on the ground in a well drained spot, and they get covered with snow, but you could put them in a bank of leaves weighed down with chicken wire if you don't get snow. Good drainage is essential; they don't like being wet for too long.

See this page for more on how they come through the winter: Succulent Sphere. If your planters are clay or breakable, turn them onto their side so they don't break under the snow and ice.
Jacki

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