How to Grow & Care for Common Houseleek plants | Sempervivum Tectorum

Hello and welcome to Brainy Gardener! In this video I'm going to show you how to grow and care for common houseleek plants. Houseleeks are a succulent perennial that can be found all over the world, and they make a great addition to any garden or landscape. So whether you're just starting out with gardening or you're a seasoned pro, stay tuned and I'll show you everything you need to know about these fascinating plants.

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RESOURCES & LINKS:
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How to Grow & Care for Common Houseleek plants | Sempervivum Tectorum
https://brainygardener.com/common-houselee...

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Video Timestamps
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0:00 - Introduction
0:59 - Light and Location
1:41 - Watering
1:54 - Temperature
2:19 - Humidity
2:32 - Fertilization
2:48 - Propagation
3:42 - Potting and Repotting
4:03 - Toxicity and Common Pests
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Summary
The Common Houseleek, Sempervivum tectorum, is an evergreen succulent that’s native to Europe. It’s one of the most common houseplants in the world and has been cultivated for centuries. Its easy care and durability make it a great choice for first-time succulent growers.

1. Light and Location
The Common Houseleek is a sun-loving succulent. It thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. In case of harsh sunlight, it’s best to protect the plant from the afternoon sun to prevent scorching. Leaf burn is rare, but it is known to happen under particularly harsh sunlight.

2. Watering
This succulent has very low water needs. It is more likely to rot from too much water than from too little. When watering, allow the soil to dry out completely before giving it a good soak. Ideally, water only once every 1 to 2 weeks.

3. Temperature
The ideal temperatures range for Common Houseleek is between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This succulent can tolerate short periods of cold weather, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures will damage the leaves. In cooler climates, this succulent can be grown outdoors year-round. But if you live in an area that gets frosty winters, it’s best to bring your plant indoors before the first frost hits.

4. Humidity
Common Houseleeks are not particularly picky when it comes to humidity levels. They will do fine in dry conditions but can also tolerate higher humidity if necessary. Just be sure to provide good air circulation to prevent rot.

5. Fertilization
This succulent doesn’t need much fertilizer to stay healthy and happy. In fact, too much fertilizer can do more harm than good. If you do decide to fertilize your Sempervivum tectorum, use a succulent-specific fertilizer and only apply it once every few months.

6. Propagation
Hens and Chicks can be propagated from seeds, seedlings, or by splitting offsets. During the growing season, each plant multiplies itself, by producing little offset plantlets all around the perimeter of the plant. These chicks can be snapped off and replanted elsewhere at any time. Once established, the maintenance of hens and chicks is minimal. It is a self-propagating plant that needs little influence from outside.

7. Potting and Repotting
Common Houseleek is a slow-growing succulent, so it doesn’t need to be repotted very often. It’s best to leave your plant in its current pot for at least 2 to 3 years. When the time comes to repot, only move it up one pot size. Offsets are produced by the plant by spreading its roots underneath. Be very careful as you’ll be disturbing the plantlets during the process of repotting.

8. Toxicity and Common Pests
Common houseleek is non-toxic to humans and pets. This succulent is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale are common pests that can infest Sempervivum tectorum. These pests are easy to spot and can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases are not a big problem for this plant, but powdery mildew and fungal infections can occur in high humidity environments.
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