From our perspective, dormancy is not a choice but a vital survival strategy dictated by an ancient internal clock synced with the sun. We, Echeveria, originate from semi-desert regions of Central America, Mexico, and northwestern South America. In these habitats, the year is divided not by temperature extremes alone, but by pronounced wet and dry seasons. Our growth period aligns with the cooler, rainier seasons. When the intense heat and arid conditions of summer arrive, or the chill of a high-altitude winter sets in, our metabolism must slow dramatically. This is dormancy. It is a deep rest to conserve precious water and energy resources when conditions are too harsh for active growth, preventing us from expending energy we cannot replenish.
We do not consult a calendar; we respond to tangible environmental cues. The primary signal is the change in photoperiod—the length of daylight. As days shorten into winter or lengthen into the peak of summer, our cellular processes receive the message to begin winding down. This is often accompanied by a significant shift in temperature. For winter-dormant types, the combination of shorter days and cooler temperatures triggers our slowdown. For a few summer-dormant varieties, it is the intense heat and sun that signal a time for caution. You might notice our growth has completely stalled, and our outer, older leaves may begin to be reabsorbed more quickly as we draw their stored nutrients and water inward for safekeeping.
When we are dormant in winter, our needs change drastically. Our water uptake from the roots slows to a near halt. The most critical thing you can do is drastically reduce watering. Hydrating us as you would in spring will quickly lead to root rot and stem collapse, as our roots are not actively drinking. The soil should be allowed to become completely dry and remain that way for longer periods. We also require a much cooler environment to sustain this restful state properly; a bright, cool windowsill is ideal. Please shield us from freezing drafts near windows, as our water-filled leaves are highly susceptible to frost damage, which causes irreparable cell death.
For those of us who rest during the hottest part of the summer, our demands are different. While we need even less frequent water than in our active seasons, we are not entirely without need. A very light, early morning watering may be necessary to prevent our roots from desiccating completely if a heatwave is prolonged. However, the soil must dry out rapidly. Our greatest need is for protection from intense, scorching afternoon sun, which can literally cook our leaves. Bright, indirect light or morning sun only is perfect. Ensuring excellent air circulation around our pots is also crucial to help dispel excess heat and humidity around our stagnant roots.
