From my perspective, overwintering is not about continued growth and blooming; it is a period of essential rest. I am a tender perennial, meaning my roots cannot survive freezing temperatures. My primary goal during this time is to conserve energy and enter a state of dormancy. I do not require rich soil, fertilizer, or abundant water now. What I desperately need is a cool, bright environment that allows my metabolic processes to slow down significantly without shutting down completely. Think of it as my long, peaceful nap, and you are the caretaker ensuring I wake up healthy in the spring.
Before you bring me inside, you must prepare me for the transition. The lush, sun-loving foliage and long trailing stems I proudly displayed all summer are now a liability indoors. They are prone to pest infestations like spider mites and aphids, and they will struggle in the lower light conditions, becoming leggy and weak. Please, give me a significant pruning. Cut my stems back to about 3-4 inches in height. This might seem severe, but it reduces the leaf surface area through which I lose water, focuses my energy on my roots, and minimizes hiding spots for pests. It is a refreshing haircut that sets me up for a successful rest.
Do not place me in your warm, dark living room or basement. My survival depends on specific conditions. I need a spot that is consistently cool, with temperatures ideally between 45-55°F (7-13°C). An unheated but frost-free sunroom, a bright garage with a window, or a cool guest room would be perfect. This chill signals to my system that it is time to sleep. Crucially, I still need access to bright, indirect light. A south-facing window is best. While I won't grow much, the light fuels the minimal photosynthesis required to keep my core alive. A warm, dark place will confuse me, causing me to expend my last energy reserves on weak, etiolated growth that will ultimately kill me.
My watering needs change dramatically. The goal is to prevent my root ball from completely drying out and turning to dust, but never to keep it moist. Overwatering in cool, low-light conditions is the fastest way to kill me with root rot. Please check my soil every couple of weeks. Water me only when the soil is dry an inch or two below the surface, and then provide just a small drink to barely moisten the roots. Do not soak me. I require absolutely no fertilizer during this period. It would force me to attempt growth I cannot sustain, depleting my energy stores. My only job is to rest.
As the days lengthen and the sun's strength returns in late winter or early spring, you will notice small signs of new growth. This is my signal that I am ready to end my dormancy. Gradually acclimate me to warmer temperatures and brighter light. Once the danger of frost has passed, you can repot me in fresh potting mix, begin a regular watering schedule, and start a diluted fertilizer regimen. With patience and care, I will reward you by bursting back into life, ready to trail and bloom with vigor for another season.
