How To Plant Sedum [ Full Guide ]

September 12, 2024
/ Planting Tips

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a popular and versatile plant that is well-loved for its low maintenance and ability to thrive in various growing conditions. With its succulent-like leaves and beautiful, star-shaped flowers, sedum makes a stunning addition to any garden, rock garden, or container. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, learning how to plant sedum will allow you to enjoy its beauty and benefits in your outdoor space. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of selecting the right type of sedum, determining the best time to plant, preparing your garden, and the step-by-step process of planting sedum.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Sedum

Before we delve into the details, here’s a quick overview of the steps involved in planting sedum:

Select the Right Location: Choose a spot with well-draining soil and ample sunlight.
Choose the Right Type of Sedum: Consider the variety of sedum that best suits your garden’s needs.
Prepare the Soil: Amend the soil if necessary to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
Planting Technique: Dig a hole, place the sedum in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
Care and Maintenance: Maintain proper watering and monitor for pests or diseases.

By following the comprehensive guide below, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to successfully plant sedum in your garden.

Choosing The Right Type Of Sedum For Your Garden

Before starting the planting process, it’s essential to select the right type of sedum for your garden. With over 400 species available, sedum offers a wide range of options in terms of size, color, and growth habit. Here are some popular types of sedum to consider:

1. Sedum Spurium (Stonecrop)

Description: This low-growing perennial forms a dense mat of tiny, rounded leaves and produces clusters of pink or white flowers in the summer.
Suitable for: Ground cover, rock gardens, and container gardening.
Hardiness Zone: Grows well in zones 3-9.

2. Sedum Spectabile (Showy Stonecrop)

Description: Known for its large, flattened flower heads that bloom in shades of pink, red, or white. The foliage varies from blue-green to purple.
Suitable for: Borders, mixed perennial beds, and attracting pollinators.
Hardiness Zone: Suited for zones 3-9.

3. Sedum Acre (Goldmoss Stonecrop)

Description: This low-growing sedum features tiny, needle-like leaves and produces a profusion of tiny yellow flowers in late spring.
Suitable for: Trough gardens, rock gardens, and cascading over walls.
Hardiness Zone: Well-suited for zones 4-9.

4. Sedum Reflexum (Blue Spruce Stonecrop)

Description: Resembling the foliage of a blue spruce tree, this sedum has blue-green cylindrical leaves and bright yellow flowers.
Suitable for: Rock gardens, alpine gardens, and on slopes for erosion control.
Hardiness Zone: Suitable for zones 5-9.

When selecting a type of sedum, consider your climate, the specific conditions of your garden, and the intended purpose of the plant. Understanding the characteristics and growth habits of different sedum varieties will help you make an informed decision that suits your garden’s aesthetic and practical needs.

Best Time To Plant Sedum: Tips For Optimal Growth

The best time to plant sedum is during the growing season, which typically spans from late spring to early fall. Planting during this period allows the sedum to establish itself before the onset of winter. However, specific timing may vary depending on your location and the variety of sedum you’ve chosen. Here are some tips to ensure optimal growth when planting sedum:

1. Spring Planting

Advantages: Planting sedum in the spring allows the roots to establish and the plant to acclimate to its surroundings before the heat of summer arrives. Additionally, spring planting provides ample time for the sedum to develop and bloom during the summer months.
Considerations: If you’re planting in early spring when the soil is still cold and wet, make sure to choose a well-drained site and be mindful of potential frost.

2. Summer Planting

Advantages: Planting in the summer enables the sedum to take advantage of warm temperatures and longer daylight hours for rapid growth and establishment.
Considerations: Ensure that the sedum receives adequate water during the hotter months, especially when planting in summer, to promote healthy root development and prevent wilting.

3. Fall Planting

Advantages: Planting in the fall allows the sedum to establish strong roots before winter, giving it a head start for the following spring. Cool temperatures and moist soil create optimal conditions for root development.
Considerations: Avoid planting too late in the fall, as the sedum may not have sufficient time to establish itself before winter sets in.

Regardless of the season, avoid planting sedum during extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves or severe frosts. Additionally, be mindful of your local climate and weather patterns to determine the most suitable time for planting sedum in your specific area.

Preparing Your Garden For Planting Sedum

Preparing your garden for planting sedum is crucial for ensuring the plant’s successful establishment and growth. From soil preparation to site selection, taking the time to create an optimal environment for your sedum will greatly contribute to its overall health and vitality.

Soil Preparation

Sedum thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Here’s how to prepare your soil for planting sedum:

Assess Drainage: Ensure that the planting site has good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil, as sedum is susceptible to rot in overly moist conditions.
Improve Soil Structure: If the soil is heavy or compacted, add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to enhance its structure and drainage capabilities.
Soil pH: Test the soil pH and adjust as necessary to fall within the optimal range of 6.0 to 7.0.

Site Selection

Choosing the right location for planting sedum is essential for its overall health and aesthetic appeal. Consider the following factors when selecting a site for your sedum:

Sunlight: Sedum thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Air Circulation: Select a site with good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases and promote healthy growth.
Space and Arrangement: Plan the layout of the sedum in your garden, considering its growth habit and potential spread. Pay attention to spacing recommendations based on the specific variety of sedum you’ve chosen.

Planting Technique

Once you’ve selected the variety of sedum and prepared the soil and planting site, it’s time to proceed with the actual planting process. Follow these steps for successful sedum planting:

Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is slightly larger and deeper than the root ball of the sedum plant.
Amending the Soil: If necessary, mix in a small amount of compost or organic matter with the soil removed from the hole to improve fertility.
Planting Depth: Place the sedum in the hole at the same level as it was previously growing, ensuring that the crown of the plant (where the stem meets the roots) is at soil level.
Backfilling: Gently backfill the hole with soil, making sure to firm it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Watering: After planting, water the sedum thoroughly to settle the soil and provide initial hydration to the roots.

Care And Maintenance

After planting, it’s important to maintain proper care and monitor the growth of your sedum. Here are essential care tips to promote healthy and thriving sedum plants:

Watering: Provide regular watering, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, sedum is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the sedum to conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate the roots.
Fertilization: While sedum is relatively low-maintenance, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to support healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers and trim back any leggy or overgrown stems to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage new growth.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor your sedum for signs of pests, such as aphids or mealybugs, and address any issues promptly. Additionally, watch for symptoms of fungal diseases and take preventive actions, such as improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

By following these guidelines for care and maintenance, you can ensure that your sedum thrives and remains a beautiful and vibrant addition to your garden.

Planting sedum is a rewarding and straightforward process that can bring year-round beauty to your garden. By carefully selecting the right type of sedum, considering the best time for planting, and preparing your garden with optimal soil and site conditions, you can set the stage for successful sedum growth and enjoyment. Whether you’re aiming to create a colorful border, a lush ground cover, or a striking container display, the versatility of sedum makes it a valuable addition to any landscape. With proper care and maintenance, your sedum plants will continue to flourish, attracting pollinators, providing texture and visual interest, and contributing to the overall health and diversity of your garden ecosystem. By incorporating sedum into your outdoor space, you’ll have the opportunity to experience firsthand the resilience, beauty, and adaptability of this beloved perennial plant.

Step-by-Step Guide To Planting Sedum

Sedum is a popular succulent plant known for its hardy nature and beautiful foliage. It is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of settings, from gardens to rockeries and even containers. With its low-maintenance requirements and ability to attract butterflies and bees, sedum is a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Choose the right variety: Before you start planting sedum, it is important to select the right variety for your specific needs. There are over 400 different species of sedum, so consider factors such as their growth habit, height, flower color, and preferred growing conditions. Common varieties include Sedum spectabile (also known as Stonecrop), Sedum spurium (also known as Two-row Stonecrop), and Sedum kamtschaticum (also known as Kamchatka Stonecrop).
Pick the perfect location: Sedum thrives in full sun, making it important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, sedum prefers well-drained soil, so choose a spot with good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots. If your soil is heavy or clayey, consider adding organic matter to improve drainage.
Prepare the soil: Once you’ve selected the right location, it’s time to prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the planting area. Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5, which is ideal for sedum.
Planting the sedum: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your sedum plant. Place the sedum in the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant to remove any air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil.
Spacing: When planting sedum, it is important to space the plants adequately to allow for proper air circulation and growth. The spacing requirements will depend on the specific variety of sedum you are planting. As a general rule, aim for a spacing of 6 to 12 inches between individual plants. However, allow for slightly wider spacing for larger varieties.
Watering: After planting, water the sedum thoroughly. This will help the roots establish and prevent them from drying out. Keep the soil evenly moist in the first few weeks, but avoid overwatering, as sedum is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Once established, sedum is drought-tolerant and requires watering only during prolonged dry spells.
Staking: Some taller varieties of sedum may require staking to keep them upright. Use bamboo stakes or other suitable materials to support the plant. Install the stakes early in the growing season to prevent damage to the roots later on. Tie the plant to the stake using soft twine or plant ties, making sure not to constrict the growth of the sedum.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the sedum plants to retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Avoid mulching directly against the plant stems, as this can promote rotting. Leave a small gap between the mulch and the plants to allow for air circulation. Mulching also helps regulate soil temperature, keeping the roots cool in hot weather and warm in colder climates.

Watering And Care Tips For Newly Planted Sedum

Newly planted sedum requires proper watering and care to ensure healthy growth. Here are some tips to help you care for your sedum plants:

Watering frequency: In the first few weeks after planting, water the sedum thoroughly to help establish the roots. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. As sedum is a drought-tolerant plant, reduce the frequency of watering once the plant is established. Water only during prolonged dry spells or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Watering method: When watering sedum, it is best to use a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose. This method allows water to reach the roots directly, without wetting the foliage excessively. Avoid overhead watering or using sprinklers, as this can increase the risk of fungal diseases and rot in sedum.
Fertilizing: While sedum is relatively low-maintenance and can grow well without fertilization, adding a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring can promote healthier and more vigorous growth. Follow the package instructions for the correct dosage and apply the fertilizer around the base of the plants. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to weak growth and increased susceptibility to diseases.
Pruning: Sedum plants generally do not require extensive pruning. However, you can trim back overgrown or leggy stems in early spring to encourage bushier growth. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node. Removing spent blooms can also help prolong the flowering period and maintain a tidy appearance.
Winter care: Most sedum varieties are hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures. However, in regions with harsh winters, it is advisable to provide some winter protection. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate the roots and help prevent frost heaving. Avoid cutting back the foliage until early spring, as the dead stems provide some protection to the plant.

Adding Mulch To Your Sedum Garden: Benefits And Techniques

Mulching is an important aspect of sedum gardening that offers a range of benefits. Here’s why you should consider adding mulch to your sedum garden and some techniques to follow:

Benefits of Mulching:

Moisture retention: Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering. This is especially useful during hot and dry periods when sedum may suffer from drought stress.
Weed suppression: Mulch acts as a barrier, preventing weed seeds from germinating and competing with sedum for nutrients and moisture. A layer of mulch helps to keep the garden beds neat and weed-free.
Soil temperature regulation: Mulch insulates the soil, keeping it cooler in hot weather and warmer in cold weather. This helps to moderate soil temperature fluctuations and provides a more favorable growing environment for sedum.
Erosion control: Sedum is often planted on slopes or in areas prone to erosion. Mulch helps to prevent soil erosion by reducing runoff and holding the soil in place.

Mulching Techniques:

Choosing the right mulch: When selecting mulch for your sedum garden, choose organic materials that will break down over time, such as shredded bark, wood chips, or compost. These materials enrich the soil as they decompose. Avoid using plastic or synthetic mulches, as they do not provide the same benefits and can hinder water and air movement in the soil.
Preparing the soil: Before applying mulch, remove any weeds or debris from the planting area. If necessary, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist before mulching.
Applying the mulch: Spread a layer of mulch around the sedum plants, leaving a small gap (about 1 to 2 inches) around the base of each plant to prevent moisture buildup and rot. Apply the mulch to a depth of 2 to 4 inches, taking care not to bury the sedum stems. Rake the mulch evenly, avoiding thick layers that can suffocate the plants.
Maintaining the mulch layer: Over time, the mulch may break down and become compacted. To maintain its effectiveness, check the mulch layer regularly and add additional mulch as needed. Refresh the mulch annually to replenish nutrients and maintain its appearance.

Dealing With Common Pests And Diseases In Sedum Plants

While sedum is generally considered a hardy and disease-resistant plant, it can occasionally be affected by pests and diseases. Here are some common problems you may encounter and how to deal with them:

1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the new growth of sedum plants, sucking the sap and causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To control aphids, start by spraying the affected plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests. If the infestation persists, use insecticidal soap or neem oil as directed on the label. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on aphids.

2. Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can be a nuisance in sedum gardens, causing damage to the foliage by feeding on it. To control these pests, remove any debris or hiding places near the sedum plants, as they provide shelter for slugs and snails. Handpicking the pests in the evening when they are most active can also help reduce their population. Additionally, you can create barriers around the plants using copper tape or diatomaceous earth to deter them.

3. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of sedum plants. It is caused by fungal spores and is favored by high humidity and poor air circulation. To prevent powdery mildew, plant sedum in locations with good air movement and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew occurs, remove and dispose of the affected plant parts and apply a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew control.

4. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of sedum plants, often caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and a rotten odor. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil has good drainage and avoid overwatering. If root rot occurs, remove and dispose of the infected plants and improve the soil drainage before replanting.

Planting and caring for sedum can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can ensure that your sedum plants thrive in your chosen location. Remember to provide the necessary watering and care for newly planted sedum, and consider mulching to maintain a healthy and aesthetically pleasing garden. Lastly, stay vigilant for common pests and diseases that can affect sedum, and take appropriate measures to prevent and treat these issues. With proper care, your sedum garden will be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space.

Propagating Sedum: How To Multiply Your Plants

Sedum, a genus of succulent plants, is known for its striking foliage and vibrant flowers. It is a versatile plant that thrives in various growing conditions, making it a popular choice among gardeners. With its low maintenance requirements and ability to tolerate drought, sedum is perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

One of the wonderful aspects of sedum is its ability to propagate easily, allowing you to multiply your plants and create beautiful displays throughout your garden. Here are some methods you can use to propagate sedum:

Stem Cuttings

Begin by selecting a healthy sedum plant and sterilizing a sharp knife or pair of shears.
Identify a stem that is at least two inches long and free from damage or disease.
With a clean cut, snip the stem just below a leaf node.
Remove the lowest leaves to leave a clean, bare stem.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
Plant the stem in a well-draining soil mix, making sure to bury at least one leaf node.
Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight.
Maintain moisture levels and mist the cutting occasionally to increase humidity.
Within a few weeks, roots should start to form, indicating that the cutting has successfully rooted.
Once the roots are established, you can transplant the newly rooted sedum into a pot or directly into the ground.

Leaf Cuttings

Select a healthy and plump leaf from a mature sedum plant.
Using a clean, sharp knife or pair of shears, gently remove the leaf from the stem, ensuring that a small portion of the stem is attached.
Allow the leaf cutting to callous over for a day or two. This will help prevent rotting.
Fill a pot or tray with a well-draining soil mix, such as a blend of potting soil and perlite.
Place the leaf cutting on top of the soil mix, burying the attached stem slightly into the soil.
Water the cutting lightly and mist it to increase humidity.
Place the pot or tray in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
After a few weeks, tiny rosettes will start to emerge from the base of the leaf cutting.
Once these rosettes have grown to a substantial size, you can carefully transplant them into individual pots or directly into the ground.

Division

Dig up a mature sedum plant, ensuring that you dig deep enough to preserve the root system.
Shake off excess soil to expose the root ball.
Using clean and sharp gardening shears, divide the root ball into sections, ensuring that each section has its own set of roots and stems.
Replant the divided sections in their desired locations, making sure to provide adequate spacing between each plant.
Water the newly divided sedum thoroughly to promote root establishment.
Maintain regular watering until the plants become established.

Creative Ideas For Using Sedum In Landscaping

Sedum is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance the beauty of your garden and landscape. Here are some creative ideas for incorporating sedum into your outdoor space:

Ground Cover

Sedum varieties with low-growing habits, such as Sedum spurium (Dragon’s Blood) or Sedum rupestre (Angelina), can be used as ground covers. These varieties spread rapidly and form dense mats of colorful foliage, creating a stunning carpet effect. The vibrant colors and textures of sedum ground cover will add visual interest to rock gardens, slopes, or any sunny spot in your garden.

Rock Gardens

Sedum’s ability to tolerate rocky, dry conditions makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens. You can combine different sedum varieties that vary in height, color, and texture to create a visually stunning display. Plant taller sedums towards the back for height and use low-growing varieties towards the front to create a cascading effect. The contrasting foliage and flowers of sedum will add visual appeal and create a naturalistic feel in your rock garden.

Living Walls And Green Roofs

Sedum is a popular choice for living walls and green roofs due to its ability to withstand harsh growing conditions and its low maintenance requirements. These innovative gardening techniques allow you to create vertical gardens or cover rooftops with sedum, providing insulation, reducing heat, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the building. Sedum varieties with dense growth habits, such as Sedum kamtschaticum (Orange Stonecrop) and Sedum album (White Stonecrop), are ideal for these applications.

Border Plantings

Create borders and edgings in your garden using beautiful sedum varieties. The low-growing sedum species, such as Sedum reflexum (Blue Spruce Stonecrop) or Sedum dasyphyllum (Corsican Stonecrop), are perfect for defining the edges of pathways or borders. Their compact size and attractive foliage add a touch of elegance and structure to your garden design.

Container Gardens

Sedum can also be incorporated into container gardens to add a pop of color and texture. Choose a well-draining soil mix suitable for succulents and select a container with adequate drainage holes. The container can be anything from a traditional terracotta pot to a more unique and creative vessel. Mix different sedum varieties that complement each other in terms of color and growth habit to create an eye-catching display.

Maintaining And Pruning Sedum For A Healthy And Beautiful Garden

Sedum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. However, some basic maintenance practices can help keep your sedum healthy and looking its best:

Watering

Sedum is a drought-tolerant plant, and overwatering can be detrimental to its health. Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, and make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions. Established sedum plants typically require watering once every two to three weeks, depending on the climate and soil conditions.

Fertilizing

Sedum generally does not require frequent fertilization, as excessive nutrients can cause leggy growth and reduce the intensity of its natural colors. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to provide some nutrients for healthy growth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and quantities.

Pruning

Pruning sedum is not necessary for its overall health but can help maintain its shape and appearance. Remove any dead or damaged foliage regularly to keep the plant looking tidy. In late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges, you can cut back taller sedum varieties to around two inches above the ground to encourage compact, bushier growth.

Winter Care

Most sedum varieties are winter hardy, and their foliage often adds visual interest to the garden during the colder months. However, some sedums may benefit from a layer of mulch or blanket of evergreen boughs to protect the plants from extreme temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles.

Incorporating Sedum In Container Gardens: Tips And Tricks

Sedum is an excellent choice for container gardens, and here are some tips and tricks to ensure successful growth:

Container Selection

When choosing a container for sedum, select one with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The container should be large enough to accommodate the sedum’s root system and allow room for growth. Consider the aesthetic aspect as well, as the container can add to the overall visual appeal of your garden.

Soil Mix

Use a well-draining soil mix formulated for succulent plants, or create your own by combining standard potting soil with additional perlite or coarse sand. This ensures that excess water can drain freely and prevents the roots from sitting in soggy soil.

Watering And Drainage

Water your sedum container thoroughly and allow any excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Be mindful not to overwater, as sedum prefers drier conditions. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Placement

Most sedum varieties require full sun to grow and flower their best. Place the container in a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. If you live in an area with extremely hot summers, consider providing some afternoon shade to protect the sedum from scorching.

Temperature And Winter Care

In cooler climates, it is important to consider the temperature hardiness of the sedum variety you choose for your container garden. Some sedum species are more frost-tolerant than others. If your sedum is not cold hardy, you can bring the container indoors before the first frost or provide protection by wrapping it with burlap or placing it in a sheltered location.

Maintenance

Regularly inspect and remove any dead or damaged foliage from the container. Prune back overgrown stems or leggy growth to encourage bushier growth. If the sedum becomes overcrowded in the container, it may be necessary to divide and repot it every few years.

Conclusion

Planting sedum can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to create a visually stunning garden filled with vibrant foliage and blooms. Whether you choose to propagate sedum, use it in landscaping, or incorporate it into container gardens, the versatility and low-maintenance requirements of sedum make it an excellent choice for any gardener. With the information provided in this article, you now have the knowledge and techniques to successfully plant and care for sedum, bringing beauty and elegance to your outdoor space.

FAQS

What Kind Of Soil Is Best For Planting Sedum?

Sedum thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.

When Is The Best Time To Plant Sedum?

Sedum can be planted in spring or fall when the weather is cooler. This allows the plant to establish its roots before facing extreme temperatures.

How Much Sunlight Does Sedum Need?

Sedum is a sun-loving plant and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade, but may not flower as abundantly.

How Often Should Sedum Be Watered?

Sedum is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. It is best to water deeply once a week and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Can Sedum Be Planted Indoors?

Yes, sedum can be grown indoors in a sunny window. Choose a compact and low-growing variety and use a well-draining potting mix. Be sure to water sparingly to prevent root rot.