Like many succulent plants, the different types and varieties of houseleek (Sempervivum) are extremely undemanding and easy to care for. The plants only need a dry, sunny and warm location with poor soil - otherwise you don't need to worry much about the outdoor succulents.

Houseleek is very easy to care for

How much water does the houseleek need?

Houseleek can survive for a very long time with little liquid - the thick leaves serve as excellent water reservoirs, which is why the plant can take care of itself. Specimens that are only cultivated in planters should be watered from time to time - but carefully, because houseleeks are extremely sensitive to too much water and especially waterlogging.

Can you fertilize houseleeks? If so, when and with what?

Fertilization is also basically not necessary for planted houseleeks, but you can provide the plants with a little (!) horn shavings (€32.93) or compost when planting. This measure ensures a more intensive leaf coloring. Potted specimens can be given a little blueseed or succulent fertilizer if needed - but this should rarely be the case.

Do you have to cut houseleeks?

Regular pruning of the houseleeks is not necessary. You can only remove the faded rosette after flowering has ended, as it will die anyway.

What should you pay particular attention to when caring for houseleeks in pots?

You can put houseleeks in all sorts of planters, as long as they always have good drainage. Excess water should be able to drain off immediately, otherwise there is a risk of the plant rotting or developing root rot. For this purpose, the plant substrate is mixed with plenty of sand or lava grit, and a layer of expanded clay (€19.73) or a similar drainage layer is placed at the bottom of the pot. So that the obligatory drain hole does not become clogged, you can cover it with a water-permeable fleece.

Should you transplant houseleeks in pots?

Regular repotting is not necessary for houseleeks. On the contrary: like so many other succulent plants, the semperviva do not particularly appreciate such a measure.

Are houseleeks attacked by diseases or pests?

Houseleeks are very robust. Infestation with fungi or pests is extremely rare. Poor growth, a pale leaf color or brittle shoots can usually be traced back to an unsuitable and/or too damp location.

Are houseleeks hardy?

As mountain plants, houseleeks are absolutely hardy and do not need any additional protection in winter. On the contrary, because the plants need the winter cold for their well-being. This also applies to potted specimens, which should at most be placed on a styrofoam or wooden base. Only very wet winters can be problematic.

tips

Houseleeks thrive in locations where other plants would not thrive. For example, the plants are used to plant walls, wall tops or roofs.

Category:

Vegetable garden