From my perspective, this is not a problem to be solved but a vital survival mechanism. As an Adenium obesum, my ancestral roots are in the arid, subtropical regions of Africa and the Middle East. There, winter doesn't mean deep freeze and snow, but a cooler, drier period. My dormancy is a direct, genetically programmed response to shorter day lengths and a significant drop in temperature. I am conserving every ounce of my energy. By shedding my leaves, I halt the energy-intensive processes of photosynthesis and transpiration, preventing water loss through my leaves when the cold soil makes it difficult for my roots to uptake moisture. I am redirecting all my resources into my thick, succulent caudex—my water and energy storage unit—to safely wait out the unfavorable conditions. Please understand, this is a healthy and necessary rest period for me; it is how I prepare for a spectacular burst of growth and flowering when the warm, bright days return.
Your most important job during this time is to respect my dormancy and not try to force me to grow. The first and most critical change you must make is to my watering schedule. As I have no leaves and am not actively growing, my water needs are nearly zero. You must drastically reduce watering. The goal is to prevent my caudex and roots from completely desiccating and shriveling, but not to keep the soil moist. A good rule is to offer a very small amount of water only when my caudex begins to feel slightly soft to the touch, perhaps once a month or even less. Overwatering is the greatest threat to me now, as my dormant roots are highly susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil, which can be fatal.
I need a specific environment to rest properly. Light is still beneficial, so please place me in a bright location, though direct, intense sun is less critical than in summer. A south-facing window is ideal. The temperature is key. I need to be kept warm. My resting period is triggered and sustained by cooler temperatures, but I cannot tolerate frost or prolonged cold. A consistent temperature between 50-55°F (10-13°C) is perfect. Please protect me from cold drafts from windows or doors, as this can cause shock. Do not fertilize me under any circumstances. My system is shut down and cannot process nutrients; any fertilizer applied will simply accumulate in the soil and potentially harm my roots.
You will know my rest is ending when you see tiny new leaf buds forming at the tips of my branches, typically as the days naturally lengthen and temperatures begin to warm in late winter or early spring. This is the signal to gradually resume care. Slowly increase the frequency of watering, but only as the new growth develops. Wait until the new leaves are fully formed and actively growing before you apply a half-strength dose of a balanced fertilizer. Do not repot me while I am dormant; this is a task best saved for late spring, once I am fully active and better able to handle the stress. Your patience and care during my sleep ensure I wake up healthy, strong, and ready to thrive.
