Sedum telephium subsp. maximum 'Gooseberry Fool'

Autumn-Spring · Planting

Prune flowering stems

Two choices: in mid-late autumn cut spent flowered stems back to near ground, avoid damaging the very young growth at the base. Or leave them for the architectural effect of the their foliage, and cut back in spring, avoiding the young growth.

Spring - late · Outdoors

Feed with slow release fertiliser

Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)

This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water in dry periods

Established plants in the ground can cope with 7-10 days of dryness, and shrubs often manage 2 to 3 weeks. Water one section of the garden thoroughly each day rather than a little everywhere. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather.

Spring · Planting

Divide when too large

The plant can be divided in alternate years. Clumps may be divided into two or more pieces. Rhizomes can be cut whilst small bulbs or offsets are detached. The new plants can be grown in a container or planted in the ground.

Spring - mid · Planting

Prune to the ground

Plants that have been left all winter for the architectural effect of their foliage can be cut to the ground in spring, being careful not to damage the young growth that will just be emerging.

Compost · Planting

Multi-purpose compost

Use a good quality peat-free multi-purpose compost when growing in pots and containers.