stonecrop

Stonecrop is a drought-tolerant plant that needs regular water during the summer months. Water this species deeply and thoroughly, 1 to 2 times per week during the growing season to prevent leaves from wilting and to replenish soil moisture levels. Allow the top inch or 2 of soil to dry out before watering, or use a moisture meter to make sure the soil is not overly wet. In cooler months, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks. Stop watering during the winter months when the plant enters dormancy. However, if you are growing your stonecrop indoors or in an extremely dry climate, water it year-round. Make sure to check the soil moisture levels regularly.

Stonecrop (Hylotelephium 'Blade Runner') plants thrive in full sun, meaning 6 to 8 hours a day of sunlight is ideal. They perform best when planted in areas with a south or west exposure. If planted in shadier areas, stonecrop may still survive but won’t reach their full ornamental potential. While they’re drought tolerant, they will benefit from a bit of extra water in particularly dry periods.

Stonecrop should be pruned annually in late spring. Make sure to wait until after bloom. Start by removing any dead or diseased stems which can help improve air circulation and prevent further spread of the problem. Then, cut back any unruly or disproportionately long stems by 90-95%, activating the plant’s natural growth response. Avoid pruning more than 1-third of the foliage at a time to ensure that the plant’s root system is able to support its foliage. Pruning at the right time helps keep the plant healthy and encourages a more abundant and colorful bloom for the following season.