We sense the days lengthening and the soil warming. This is our signal to break dormancy. Our roots become more active, eagerly seeking water and nutrients. Please gradually increase your watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry completely between drinks. This is also the ideal time for you to repot us if we have outgrown our homes; fresh, well-draining soil invigorates our growth. You can place us in a spot with bright, indirect light, and by late spring, we can often tolerate some direct morning sun. This is our prime growing season, so we may appreciate a diluted, half-strength fertilizer to support new growth.
The intense sun and heat are here. While we love light, a sudden move into harsh, afternoon sun can scorch our leaves. Please provide us with some afternoon shade, especially in the hottest zones. Our water needs are highest now, but the rule remains: water deeply only when the soil is bone dry. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent pests and rot in the humid summer air. You might notice our growth slowing during the peak of the heat, a natural response to conserve energy. Continue to monitor us for mealybugs or aphids, who also find us delicious in the summer.
As the air cools and nights grow longer, we begin our beautiful transition. This is when many of us develop our most vibrant stress colors—hues of red, purple, and orange. It is a sign we are preparing for our rest. You should significantly reduce watering now, as we will take much longer to dry out in the cooler temperatures. Please stop fertilizing entirely; we do not need nutrients for new growth as we are hardening off and getting ready to sleep. This is a critical time to check our structure for any signs of weakness before winter. If you have moved us outdoors for the summer, please bring us inside before the first frost, which is deadly to us.
We are sleeping. Our growth has almost completely halted, and our metabolic processes have slowed. Our water requirements are minimal. Overwatering now is the greatest threat to our survival, as cold, wet roots will quickly lead to rot. Water us very sparingly, only enough to prevent severe shriveling, and always ensure we are in the warmest, brightest spot you can provide indoors, away from cold drafts. A south-facing window is ideal. We do not need any fertilizer. Please simply let us rest and enjoy the quiet season, conserving our energy for the burst of spring that will eventually return.
