Things You'll Need
Pruning shears
Mulch
There are 400 different species of sedum. Some are low, spreading plants that fill in cracks and crevices in stone paths and walls. They are often used in rock gardens and are commonly known as stonecrop. Sedum "Angelina," and sedum "album L." are two varieties of many. Others are larger clumping plants that have showy flowers in late summer and fall, of which sedum "Autumn Joy," and sedum "Matrona" are two. All sedum varieties are succulents and most prefer full sun and good drainage. Some species are very cold resistant, while some are tropical and won't tolerate frost. Many are perennials and thrive in zones 3 to 9. The larger cultivars provide winter interest in the garden and food for bees and butterflies. To ensure that your sedum plants overwinter, grow those that are compatible to your zone and take a few precautions.
Step 1
Prune any stems that have fallen over or are diseased. Leave stems that are upright for winter interest and foliage.
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Step 2
Rake away summer debris which may contain insects.
Step 3
Mulch around plants with 2 to 3 inches of fine wood mulch, chopped leaves, pine needles or compost.
Step 4
Prune dead stems out in early spring. New growth will sprout from the tuberous roots.
Tip
Creeping sedum will usually overwinter without any help. Even sedum plants in pots will overwinter although you may want move pots close to a wall or other structure to provide some protection from wind. Sedum propagates very easily. Just stick a leaf, flower head or stem in the soil to start a new plant.
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