Troubleshooting
Hens and chicks problems — and how to fix them
Hens and chicks (Sempervivum tectorum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown and root rot
Caused by overwatering or poor drainage, especially in winter wet. Rosettes go soft, mushy and brown at the base. Use gritty compost, water only when bone dry, and shelter outdoor plants from persistent winter rain.
Etiolated, stretched rosettes
Too little light makes the tight rosettes elongate and lose colour as they reach for the sun. Move to the brightest spot available; full direct sun keeps them compact and well coloured.
Vine weevil (in containers)
Grubs eat the roots of pot-grown plants, causing sudden collapse. Check roots when repotting; biological nematode controls or a suitable drench help on valued specimens.
Rust and leaf miner
Fungal rust shows as raised orange pustules in damp, stagnant conditions; the newer UK Sempervivum leaf miner tunnels into rosettes. Improve airflow, remove affected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.
Prevent hens and chicks problems before they start
Most hens and chicks issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hens and chicks problems — FAQ
Why is my hens and chicks crown and root rot?
Caused by overwatering or poor drainage, especially in winter wet. Rosettes go soft, mushy and brown at the base. Use gritty compost, water only when bone dry, and shelter outdoor plants from persistent winter rain.
Why is my hens and chicks etiolated, stretched rosettes?
Too little light makes the tight rosettes elongate and lose colour as they reach for the sun. Move to the brightest spot available; full direct sun keeps them compact and well coloured.
Why is my hens and chicks vine weevil (in containers)?
Grubs eat the roots of pot-grown plants, causing sudden collapse. Check roots when repotting; biological nematode controls or a suitable drench help on valued specimens.
Why is my hens and chicks rust and leaf miner?
Fungal rust shows as raised orange pustules in damp, stagnant conditions; the newer UK Sempervivum leaf miner tunnels into rosettes. Improve airflow, remove affected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.