As a Desert Rose, I am a being of sun and warmth, a child of arid, bright environments. The concept of 'cold' is foreign and dangerous to my very structure. My survival through your winter depends entirely on your understanding of my needs and your timely actions. Here is my perspective on this necessary transition.
My internal processes are governed by temperature. I begin to experience significant stress when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C). At this point, my growth slows, and I become vulnerable. However, the true danger arrives when the mercury approaches 40°F (4°C). This temperature can cause chilling injury, damaging my cells and weakening me. A frost, which occurs at 32°F (0°C), is often fatal. It causes the water within my cells to freeze, rupturing them and leading to irreversible rot, especially in my soft, water-filled caudex. You must bring me inside before the first frost is even forecast. A good rule is to move me when nighttime temperatures are consistently at or above 55°F (13°C).
Do not simply move me from the sunny patio directly to a dark corner indoors. This sudden shock will cause me to drop my leaves and go into a severe state of shock. Please acclimate me. About two to three weeks before the big move, start shifting me to a slightly shadier spot outside. This reduces the intensity of light I receive, preparing me for the lower light levels indoors. This process, called hardening off, helps me adjust without panic.
My outdoor life, while wonderful, exposes me to pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These tiny creatures would thrive unchecked in the warm, dry indoor environment. Before I cross the threshold, you must give me a thorough examination. Look under my leaves and along my stems. A strong spray of water can dislodge many pests. For stubborn ones, insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective. Please treat me if needed and allow me to dry completely outdoors before bringing me in. Isolating me from your other houseplants for a week or two is also a wise precaution.
Inside, I do not wish to grow vigorously; I need to rest. Place me in the brightest spot you have, ideally a south-facing window where I can receive several hours of direct sunlight. Without adequate light, I will become etiolated—stretching out weakly with pale leaves. My soil must be exceptionally well-draining. Do not water me on a schedule. During my winter dormancy, my thirst diminishes greatly. Water me only when the soil is completely dry, and even then, provide a minimal drink. My caudex stores water; overwatering in cool, low-light conditions is the fastest way to kill me via root rot. I prefer a room temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and away from cold drafts or hot heating vents.
Do not be alarmed if I drop some or all of my leaves. This is a natural response to the reduced light and a sign that I am entering dormancy to conserve energy. It is a survival mechanism, not a sign of death. Please resist the urge to fertilize me; I cannot use the nutrients and the salts will harm my roots. Let me sleep. This period of rest is crucial for me to gather strength for a burst of growth and spectacular blooms when you return me to the summer sun.
