With its brilliant lemon-lime foliage, Lemon Coral sedum makes a gorgeous addition to container gardens. This low-maintenance succulent thrives in pots and planters, making it an ideal choice for deck and patio containers. Here’s everything you need to know about successfully growing Lemon Coral sedum in pots.
Lemon Coral sedum (Sedum mexicanum ‘Lemon Coral’) is a petite evergreen perennial with vivid yellow-green leaves. It forms a trailing mound about 9 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide. The succulent foliage is arranged in tight rosettes on branching stems.
In summer, Lemon Coral sedum blooms with clusters of small star-shaped yellow flowers However, it’s really grown for its foliage. The spiky lemon-lime leaves provide a pop of color and texture perfect for containers
This sedum is hardy in zones 7-11 but often grown as an annual in colder climates. It thrives with minimal care, making it an easy yet standout choice for deck and patio pots.
Choosing the Right Container
Lemon Coral sedum isn’t too picky when it comes to containers. Terra cotta, plastic, concrete, wood – all make fine homes for this plant
Focus on choosing a pot that:
- Is at least 10-14 inches wide to accommodate the sedum’s spread.
- Has drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
- Matches your style and decor.
For a trailing effect, select a container with a wide upper rim or lip. This allows the sedum’s stems to spill gracefully over the edges.
Shallow pots like cachepots or dish gardens suit Lemon Coral sedum well The succulent’s small root system doesn’t require much depth Just pair your shallow container with a drip tray or plant saucer to catch excess water drainage,
Preparing the Right Soil
Lemon Coral sedum prefers fast-draining soil to avoid standing water. A quality cacti/succulent potting mix is ideal. Or you can make your own by mixing:
- 2 parts potting soil
- 1 part perlite or coarse sand
This provides the drainage sedum needs. If your potting mix contains compost or fertilizer, no need to feed the plant further. But in soil-less or nutrient-poor mixes, you’ll need to feed monthly. More on that later!
Before planting, moisten the soil mix well. Sedum plants into damp (not soggy) soil to prevent transplant shock.
Planting and Care
Lemon Coral sedum couldn’t be easier to grow in pots with proper care. Follow these tips for success:
Sunlight
Place containers in full sun for optimal growth. Lemon Coral sedum tolerates partial shade but may stretch and become leggy. Provide a minimum of 6 hours direct sun daily.
Water
Water thoroughly after planting, then allow the soil to partially dry between waterings. Test moisture by sticking a finger 1-2 inches deep into the potting mix. Only water when the top few inches are dry.
Avoid keeping the soil constantly wet, as sedum dislikes soggy feet! But take care not to underwater either. Drought stress causes leaf drop.
Fertilizer
In nutritionally complete potting mix, no fertilizer is needed. But in plain soil or soil-less mixes, feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. This keeps Lemon Coral sedum lush and vibrant.
Temperature & Humidity
Lemon Coral sedum tolerates both heat and cold. It flourishes outdoors during the warm season, then can be overwintered indoors. Avoid drafty spots and protect containers from hard freezes.
Average room humidity suits it well. Misting leaves periodically raises humidity around the plant.
Pruning & Deadheading
Pinch or snip off any dead, damaged, or unsightly growth as needed to keep plants looking their best. Pruning back leggy stems encourages bushier growth.
Remove spent flower heads to prolong bloom and maintain a tidy appearance.
Repotting
Replant in fresh soil every 2-3 years as potting mix ages. Or annually after overwintering dormant plants indoors. Gently loosen old roots before transferring to a container just 1-2 inches larger.
Tips for Stunning Container Designs
Now that you know how to grow healthy Lemon Coral sedum in pots, it’s time for the fun part – using it to create jaw-dropping container gardens!
Here are some designer tips for showstopping combinations:
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Use Lemon Coral sedum as a cascading element in mixed pots and hanging baskets. The trailing stems make it a perfect “spiller” plant.
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Contrast the sedum’s bright color with darker companions like purple heart or, dark red coleus.
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For contemporary chic, match with white and silver foliage plants like dusty miller.
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Incorporate vertical thrillers like ornamental grasses to balance the low-growing sedum.
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Mass several pots of Lemon Coral sedum together for a bold monochromatic display.
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Accent with garden art like ceramics, glass flowers, or decorative watering cans.
With its vivid hues and fluid form, Lemon Coral sedum sparks creativity in container plantings. It’s easy to grow, deer and pest resistant, and brings cheery color that lasts from spring until frost. For low-maintenance pots that pop, look no further than this perfect succulent!
FAQ About Growing Lemon Coral Sedum in Containers
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about cultivating this dazzling succulent in pots:
Is Lemon Coral sedum a true houseplant?
While often overwintered indoors, Lemon Coral sedum is not a true houseplant. It requires high light similar to outdoor conditions. So it’s best grown in a greenhouse or sunroom rather than general indoor settings.
Does it require special care in pots?
Lemon Coral sedum thrives in containers with minimal specialized care. Just be sure to provide well-draining soil, allow it to dry slightly between waterings, and give it ample sunlight.
What size pot does Lemon Coral sedum need?
Select a container at least 10-14 inches wide and deep to accommodate the sedum’s spreading growth habit. Shallow pots or dishes work well.
Should I bring potted sedum indoors for winter?
In zones 7-11, you can leave pots outdoors year-round. In colder climates, bring them into an enclosed patio or unheated garage over winter. Or overwinter as houseplants if sufficient light is provided.
How do I propagate more sedum plants?
Take 3-4 inch stem cuttings in summer, remove lower leaves, and root in potting mix. Or divide established clumps in spring or fall. Propagate indoors or outdoors.
With its low maintenance needs and vibrant color, Lemon Coral sedum is a joy to cultivate. This simple guide covers everything required to get those pots overflowing with chartreuse goodness. Happy gardening!
