Winter hardy Sempervivum

by Donna
(Massachusetts)

chicks

I brought some Hens and chicks inside for winter and they're not happy. Basically they are shriveling up. Do they need to go dormant? I'm in Zone 5. I usually keep them out during the winter but wanted to grow the chicks into hens by Spring planting. Thank you.

Donna

Comments for Winter hardy Sempervivum

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Dec 30, 2020

Semps like winter
by: Jacki Cammidge, Certified Horticulturist

Yes, Sempervivum NEED winter dormancy. You've seen what happens now if they don't get it - they pout. Here's an article about them and why they do best outdoors; Sempervivum in winter.

The tough part now is deciding what to do; take them outside and risk them dying anyway from the sudden shock of cold and freezing weather, or keep them indoors and hope spring comes early.

What I would do is realize first of all that they are on their own schedule, and no matter what you do they'll resist change. The only possible solution you might have success with is to put them in a really cool room (basement, maybe?) and use a grow light to try to keep them somewhat happy. More on grow lights here. Let me know what happens!

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