About Sedum
Sedum is a succulent-stemmed perennial that sets umbel-shaped blooms from midsummer through fall. Despite its delicate appearance, sedum is a tough plant that’s cold-hardy down to USDA zone 3. Unlike other plants, sedums require no care other than infrequent watering and weeding–the perfect crop for busy gardeners!
The classic sedum variety Autumn Joy features fluffy rose-colored flowers that last through fall and into winter. Chocolate Cherry is a fun variation marked with mahogany foliage contrasted by bright pink blooms.
When to Plant Sedum Roots
Sedum roots are ready to be planted as soon as the soil is workable in spring. Test the soil’s moisture by picking up a handful and making a fist–if the soil clumps up and releases water, wait a few more days until the soil dries out and warms. If the soil holds its shape briefly and then crumbles, it’s time to plant sedum roots.
Where to Plant Sedum Roots
Sedum roots require full sun and well-draining soil to thrive, so choose your planting location accordingly. Amend the soil with compost or sand to increase drainage and improve aeration.
Space plants about 18 inches apart, and dig each hole deep and wide enough to accommodate each rootball. Hold each crown level with the surface of the soil as you backfill the hole and firm up the soil–bare root sedums planted too deep will likely rot.
How to Plant Sedum Roots
Hold the sedum roots as you carefully fill the hole with soil, until the crown of the sedum roots is just barely covered by soil. Water sedum roots thoroughly after planting or transplanting.
How to Harvest Sedum
While not the most traditional cut flower, sedum has an exceptionally long vase life and adds texture to both fresh and dried floral arrangements. Cut green sedum buds early in the season, or wait until the flower is halfway open before making a cut–the bloom will finish opening in water.
Strip the lower half of each stem from its foliage before adding sedum to an arrangement.
How to Care for Sedum
Sedums–like most other succulents–are sensitive to overwatering. Give container-grown sedums about an inch of water per week. In-ground sedums need the same amount of water, but their watering needs may be met by rainfall. Allowing the surface soil to dry out between waterings.
Take the time to dig up sedum roots every two to three years to keep the plants from getting overcrowded. Use sanitized pruners or a knife to make a clean cut, and transfer the division to a new location or gift your sedum roots to a friend!
