Hens and chicks are some of the hardiest and most versatile succulents available. They spread and fill in bare spots, and when they eventually produce very interesting and eye catching blooms, especially when root bound. Hens and chicks have been popular for many years, and they will continue as a flowerpot favorite for decks, patios, balconies and other outdoor living areas. They add interest and visual appeal wherever they are planted, and even those without a green thumb can plant and successfully grow them in unique containers.
My mother and grandmother grew hens and chicks for as far back as I can remember, and they did not simply plant them in an empty corner of a flowerbed. They used creative ways to plant them, and were the stars of their flowerbeds and porches all summer long. They were not flashy and extraordinarily colorful like continuously blooming flowers, but they added classic beauty beyond compare.
Plant Hens and Chicks in an Old Work Boot
My mother used an old work boot to plant her hens and chicks. The ragged old boot looked perfect on the corner of her front porch. When my dad’s work boots were too worn to wear, they were ideal for planting hardy succulents.
Fill an old work boot or shoe with rich organic soil, and plant a few hens and chicks along with a small vine or two. If desired, create a hole in the toe of the boot and add a smaller plant. With proper care, the perennial succulents will thrive and bloom, and they will come back year after year.
Use a Strawberry Jar to Grow Hens and Chicks
A strawberry jar is also an ideal planter for hens and chicks. My grandmother used a large terracotta strawberry jar to plant her hens and chicks. She planted the larger specimens in the top and the smaller succulents in the flared openings along the sides. The hens eventually developed chicks, and they filled the entire terracotta strawberry jar on her back porch. They were beautiful!
Grow Hens and Chicks in Large Scallop Shells
I recently discovered another creative way to plant hens and chicks. While browsing a local flea market I found a display of creative planters and outdoor plants of many different varieties. The seller had filled large scallop shells with soil and used them to plant small hens and chicks. They were very unique, and I purchased one for my nautical themed front yard display.
Just about any container that provides adequate drainage can be used to plant hens and chicks. Terracotta containers of all shapes and sizes are ideal. Antique crocks and pickle barrels are also excellent choices. Plant your hens and chicks using unique containers, and give your classic succulents a unique new place to grow. They can become the stars of your porch, deck or garden display.
Source: Personal Gardening and Landscaping Experience
