Houseleek also thrives where hardly any other plant can grow. Depending on the species, the succulents, also known as stone roses (Sempervivum), bloom from May to August. The seed heads then provide plenty of seeds that you can use for breeding.
How do I propagate houseleek from seeds?
To propagate houseleeks from seeds, collect ripe seed heads, dry them and knock out the seeds. In January or February, sow the seeds on a potting soil, grit and perlite mixture and place the trays outside. After germination, transplant the small rosettes to their final location.
How can I get seeds from houseleek?
First theseed heads must mature,then they can becut off. Immediately after flowering, they are still greenish in color and appear juicy. A few days to weeks later, depending on the variety and location, the seed chambers begin to open.
- Cut off the ripe seed heads.
- Let these continue to dry until you can knock out the dust-fine seeds.
- Keep the seeds dry and protected from light in a small screw-top jar or envelope.
How can houseleeks be propagated by seeds?
Since Sempervivum is one of thecold germsand requires a cold stimulus, we recommendsowing in January or February.
- Mix two parts potting soil with one part grit and one part perlite
- Fill the cultivation pots with the substrate.
- Moisten with a sprayer (€27.00 on Amazon).
- Sprinkle the seeds.
- Since the stone rose is a light germinator, the seeds are not covered with soil.
- Place the seed trays outdoors in an airy place protected from rain.
How quickly do houseleek plants develop from seeds?
As soon as it gets a little warmer, the seeds sprout and developwithin a few weeks small houseleeks that quickly grow into adult plants.
Transplant the still small rosettes to their future location. They feel at home on wall crowns, wall joints, rock gardens and also roof surfaces. A great planting idea is also a combination of different species, cultivated in old dishes, a box or tin cans.
Tip
Houseleek seeds: surprises cannot be ruled out
With over 5,000 varieties, Sempervivum is a diverse family of plants. This is reflected in the seeds, which are like a surprise bag. The offspring show a great deal of variation and it is easily possible that you will find a rare and particularly pretty plant among the offshoots.
