Growing succulents in zone 6? Is that possible? We tend to think of succulents as plants for arid, desert climates, but there are a number of hardy succulents that tolerate chilly winters in zone 6, where temperatures can drop as low as -5 degrees F. (-21 C.). In fact, a few can survive punishing winter climates as far north as zone 3 or 4. Read on to learn about selecting and growing succulents in zone 6.
Succulent Plants for Zone 6
Northern gardeners have no shortage of beautiful succulent plants for zone 6. Here are a few examples of zone 6 hardy succulents: Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ – Autumn joy sedum has grayish green leaves and large, pink flowers that turn bronze in fall. Sedum acre – A groundcover sedum plant with bright yellow-green blooms. Delosperma cooperi ‘Trailing Ice Plant’ – A spreading groundcover with reddish purple flowers. Sedum reflexum ‘Angelina’ (Angelina stonecrop) – Angelina stonecrop is a groundcover with lime green foliage. Sedum ‘Touchdown Flame’ – Touchdown flame has lime green and burgundy red foliage with creamy yellow flowers. Delosperma Mesa Verde (Ice Plant) – Ice plant has grayish green foliage and pinkish salmon blooms. Sedum ‘Vera Jameson’ – Vera Jameson has reddish purple leaves and pinkish blooms. Sempervivum spp. (Hens-and-Chicks) – Hens and Chicks are available in a huge variety of colors and textures. Sedum spectabile ‘Meteor’ – Sedum 'meteor' has bluish green foliage and large pink blooms. Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’ – Sedum 'purple emperor' has deep purple foliage and long-lasting, purple-pink flowers. Opuntia ‘Compressa’ (Eastern Prickly Pear) – Prickly pear have large, succulent, paddle-like pads with showy, bright yellow blooms. Sedum ‘Frosty Morn’ (Stonecrop -Variegated Autumn) – Stonecrop, this variety has silvery gray leaves, and white to pale pink flowers.
Succulent Care in Zone 6
Plant succulents in sheltered areas if winters tend to be rainy. Stop watering and fertilizing succulents in autumn. Don’t remove snow; it provides insulation for the roots when temperatures drop. Otherwise, succulents generally require no protection. The key to success with zone 6 hardy succulents is to select plants suitable for your climate, then provide them with plenty of sunshine. Well-drained soil is absolutely critical. Although hardy succulents can tolerate cold temperatures, they won’t live long in wet, soggy soil.