Pricing will vary by size of container
Hens and Chicks container
Hen and Chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) – One of the easiest and most popular plants for patio gardening. I was first introduced to Hen and Chicks by my grandmother who grew them in her garden. I always like the name and thought they were interesting to watch as the babies grew by runners from the mother plant. Succulents, especially Hen and Chicks, have grown in popularity recently and are frequently used for containers on patios, borders, and rock gardens. They are perfect for any bright area outside or indoors placed in a bright sunny window. They grow well outside or indoors, in cool or hot temperatures.
Hen and Chicks belong to the Semipervivum group of succulent plants. They need very little water as they store water in their leaves and stems . These plants have adapted to survive arid conditions throughout the world from Africa to the deserts of North America.
Hen and Chicks get their name from the way their leaves form around each other as rosettes (resembling an artichoke), and by their offsets or babies. They produce numerous offsprings (chicks) that often grow on runners. The chicks will grow into larger rosettes and become a Hen with their own offsprings. The Chicks will grow roots quickly with contact to the soil. You can easily propagate new plants by cutting the runner close to the chick rosette and placing it slightly in or on the soil. Water well after transplanting, then let the soil dry out between waterings. Rosettes not connected by runners can be picked off and replanted. Rosettes left on dry soil for days or week will still grow. They will form a callous and can then be planted. They will still grow – these are hardy little buggers!
Hen and Chicks can be grown anywhere throughout the USA but thrive in zones 4-8. They like cool nights and require a winter dormant season for best growth. The most important thing to remember is they must have well draining soil – you can add sand or perlite if needed.
When planting in containers, you can buy soil specifally made for cacti & succulents. I like to add a light layer of gravel on top to keep the leaves from touching the soil and rotting. During the hot summer months, it is best to water weekly but rather than spray with some water, wait until the dirt is completely dry and then water until draining out the bottom. Let the soil finish draining, then empty the tray. If going on vacation, I just water thoroughly then move to a shady spot and they are good for a couple of weeks. During the winter, plants go dormant and only need water about once a month.
Hen and Chicks come in different sizes and colors. They can be as small as a dime (chicks) or as large as a plate (Hen) depending on the variety. These are wonderful fun plants to grow and everyone needs some Hen and Chicks!!
Semipervian Black
Red Rubin