Can I use supervivum in my rocks?

I am unfamiliar with growing any kind of succulent so I need to know whether I am on the right track or not. If not then that's fine.



I was hoping to add a bit of colour and texture to my feature garden by adding a few succulents into the rocks. I have plenty of room to pack the rocks out with soil (or whatever) if needed. At this time of year the area is in full sun from noon(ish) to about 6pm.

Any advice will be appreciated.

G.

 

Sempervivum is probably one of the hardiest succulents so yes go ahead, they really need some full sun to grow well, but if that is ok, I'd go ahead.

 

Hi @pete. Thanks. I Think I will need to pack my rocks out a bit first. At the moment they are just sitting there. Are there any tips to planting? Special soil, feed etc. Any special varieties to look for? It's only a small area so nothing that's going to grow too big.

G.

 

No sempervivums grow very big in my experience, so you could just buy a collection of different types.
Yes they need some soil, the poorer the better.
Personally I'd dig some sharp sand or grit in first, then plant, putting the stones around as you go.
They are not fussy plants.

 

Will they be available in garden centres at the end of the year? I could then plant my spring bulbs, re-position my lithodora and play with my rocks all at the same time.

G.

 

A bit of research suggests that sharp sand is cheaper than horticultural grit. Is there any particular brand of sand I should be buying? I still have a big-ish pile of garden soil that needs sifting and re-allocating. Should I use this instead of compost?

G.

 

" B&Q " have a good range in now Jack . We got 6 today for £7 all in 3" pots with at least 5 babies on each

Don't buy any large rosettes that are flowering as after flowerimg it dies.

 

Hi @Jiffy Would there be any benefit in buying them now? I wouldn't be able to do anything with them yet. How much room would I need to allow for expansion. I don't want them to take over completely (or at least I Don't think I do. It might look better that way.)

G.

 

Get them in now to give them a chance to establish themselves.

 

If they're happy they'll have a go at taking over!