From my roots to my tender apical buds, I am in a state of complete dormancy. If you have moved me to a cool, dark place like a garage or basement for the winter, I appreciate it. I need this period of rest. Please check on my soil moisture; it should be barely damp, never bone dry or soggy. My branches may look lifeless, but trust me, the spark of life is still within, waiting for the right signal to awaken.
As the days lengthen, I begin to sense the change. You may notice tiny, green buds swelling on my stems. This is the time for my rebirth. Gently bring me into a warmer, brighter space and give me a light pruning. Remove any dead or spindly growth to encourage a strong, bushy shape. You can also repot me now if my roots have filled my current home, using a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Begin watering a little more frequently as I start my new growth.
My energy is surging! I am producing new leaves at a rapid pace. This is the time to provide me with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks to support this vigorous growth. I am still sensitive to cold nights, so please keep me sheltered until all danger of frost has passed. Acclimate me slowly to the outdoors, a process you call "hardening off," to prevent my delicate new leaves from getting sunburned.
This is my moment to shine! I am covered in my intricate, dancing blossoms. To keep this spectacular show going, you must be diligent. I am thirsty and need regular, deep watering, especially in hanging baskets where my soil dries out quickly. The heat can be stressful, so I prefer a location with bright morning sun and protective afternoon shade. Continue feeding me regularly; I am using immense energy to produce these flowers. Please deadhead my spent blooms; this tells me to produce more flowers instead of seeds.
The intense heat is subsiding, and I often experience a renewed burst of blooming. You can begin to reduce my fertilizer to help me prepare for my dormant period. As nighttime temperatures start to consistently dip below 50°F (10°C), it is time to think about bringing me back inside. Carefully check my leaves and soil for any pests before making the move. Place me in a bright, cool location indoors.
My growth has slowed to a crawl. I am entering my essential period of dormancy. I do not need fertilizer now. Water me sparingly, only enough to prevent my soil from completely drying out and my stems from shriveling. I am happy in a cool, frost-free location like an unheated garage, basement, or a cool room in your house. Here, I will rest, gathering my strength for the beautiful cycle to begin again.
