How to Care for Autumn Joy Sedum
Beginning its show in late summer, Autumn Joy sedum (Sedum spectabile "Autumn Joy") blooms for approximately eight weeks during the fall. The flowers are tiny and star-shaped, but appear in clusters atop the plant, giving the impression of a single large flower. Although most cultivars are pink, sedum is also available with yellow or red flowers. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose a spot in full sun. Sedum grows in very poor soil, as long as it has good drainage.
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Transplant new plants into the garden bed individually, but don't water them in until you plant the entire bed, then water lightly. Do not saturate the soil as sedum cannot tolerate wet soils.
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Water Autumn Joy sedum only if conditions of extreme, prolonged drought are present. The thick, fleshy leaves and stems hold water, making irrigation of sedum all but unnecessary.
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Cut off the spent flower heads in spring, as they will persist on the plants through the winter, providing a spot of color in the winter landscape. Cut the plants down to ground level when the ground thaws in spring; sedum will regrow from its roots every year.
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Fertilize lightly in early spring, using balanced granulated fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. Scatter the granules around the garden bed, following label directions and being careful not to let the fertilizer actually touch the plants.
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Divide the plants when the bed becomes crowded and overrun with sedum. Dig up a plant and divide the root ball by pulling it apart with your hands to create two or more new, smaller plants. Replant the divisions in a new bed, discard them, or share with your neighbors.
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References
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