What Type of Soil Should I Plant My Hens & Chicks in?

Soil Types

• Hens and chicks thrive in well-drained, sandy soil with a neutral pH. They will grow in hard, clay soil mounded at the top to allow excess water to drain off. Hens and chicks have shallow roots that also allow them to grow in shallow soil, such as that found in rock gardens, on rooftops or in areas with decaying bark mulch. The offshoots, or chicks, often grow attached to the mother plant, or hen, even without being rooted in soil. Hens and chicks will survive without soil until the leaves of the rosette completely dry out.

Container Growing

• Hens and chicks grow well in small or shallow containers due to their shallow root system. You can use nearly any container to grow these plants as long as it allows for drainage. Additionally, you can use them to cover the soil of other container plants as long as you prevent overcrowding. Remove excess chicks if overcrowding occurs. Chicks will often overflow and hang off the side of the container without proper maintenance. They may be replanted to create their own plant groupings.

Location

• Hens and chicks grow best in full sunlight but tolerate partial to full shade. Grow them outdoors in rock gardens, containers or as a ground cover for flowerbeds and between walkways. Hens and chicks will even grow in the nooks and crannies of tree trunks with a small amount of soil. You can also plant them in between brick or rock walls and walkways. Place them in a well-lit windowsill to grow them indoors.

Care

• Hens and chicks prefer regular watering followed by a drying-out period. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering as over-watering may cause root rot. The plants are hardy and often survive extreme or harsh conditions resulting from drought or abuse. When containers or gardens are overcrowded from the offshoots, remove the offshoots and replant them elsewhere. Remove dead or damaged leaves and chicks to allow more room for additional offshoots.