Whether you call them Stonecrop, Sedum, or Hen-and-Chicks, these hardy succulents are absolute rockstars in the garden. From the tall, upright varieties to the low-growing groundcovers, they’re super easy to care for if you give them the right spot. Most of these beauties are tough enough to handle winter on their own, but a few sensitive types might need a little extra TLC when the temperature drops.
Stonecrop and Sedum in Winter
Most Sedums are cold-hardy champs, easily handling temperatures down to -5°F. As autumn winds down, you’ll notice the green stems starting to dry out—don’t worry, that’s normal! The roots are tucked away safely underground for their winter nap. One pro tip: skip the mulch for your Stonecrop. Mulch tends to trap too much moisture, and these plants hate “wet feet,” which can lead to root rot during the damp winter months.
If you’re growing your Sedum in pots, they’ll need a bit more protection. Since containers don’t have the earth to insulate them, the root ball can freeze solid, which might mean your plant won’t wake up in the spring. Here’s how to prep your potted plants for the cold:
- Move your pots close to the house. The ambient heat from the walls makes it a few degrees warmer than the open garden.
- Give them some “shoes.” Place the pots on a wooden block or a piece of Styrofoam to insulate them from the freezing ground.
- Wrap ’em up! Use bubble wrap, burlap, or garden fleece to give the pot an extra layer of warmth.
- Keep them dry. Try to place them under a balcony or a roof overhang. This prevents them from getting waterlogged by winter rain or melting snow.
Overwintering Frost-Sensitive Varieties
Some varieties, especially those hailing from Mediterranean climates, can’t handle frost at all. These guys need to come inside for the winter. Aim for a bright, cool spot between 40°F and 55°F—an unheated sunroom or a bright stairwell is perfect. If you don’t have enough natural light, a simple grow light will do the trick. While they’re indoors, stop fertilizing and only give them a tiny sip of water every now and then.
Caring for Sedum as a Houseplant
If you keep your Stonecrop as a year-round houseplant, it still needs a three-month “winter break” to stay healthy. From November through January, move it to a very bright but cool location. During this rest period, hold off on the fertilizer and water very sparingly. Once you see new growth starting in the spring, you can gradually move it back to a warmer spot and start your regular watering routine again.
