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~Hens and Chicks~
Bloom: Varied colors during summer. Once the the "hen" blooms it will die and the "chicks" are there to fill in. Habit: Low growing spreads by offsets (chicks). Site: Needs a well drained site, colors are more intense in sunny areas. Spreading rate: Slow Uses: Excellent for use in any container, old boots or shoes, old milk cans, wheel barrows, buckets, troughs, you name it. Use in rock gardens and in the landscape along pathways, and in borders and edges. Use multiple colors and textures for maximum effect. Very low maintenance. Fertilizing: Feed in early spring and again lightly in early fall. Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one containing a slow release nitrogen source. Always follow the manufacturer's label recommendations when making any applications of fertilizer. Be sure to rinse the fertilizer off the foliage. Watering: Regular but sparse summer water should be provided the first couple of years to ensure good plant establishment and to promote maximum growth. After that water to prevent shriveling of leaves. Pruning: Remove the dead "hens" after they have bloomed or while they are blooming if you want. Remove overcrowded chicks by pulling them away from the main plant. Foot traffic: Not recommended. Hardiness: -20° to -30° F. |
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Plants can be anything from vivid and multi-colored to
green, in tight rosettes of fleshy leaves. Some varieties have a spider
like web of white covering their tops. The color of these plants
will change through the season, usually green during the winter and gaining
color with increased sunlight. Plant multiple colors or textures for
maximum effect. These are very cool little plants, often found in
"Grandma's yard".