From my perspective, the time you call my "dormant period" is not a failure; it is a critical part of my life cycle. After my vibrant blooming display, my leaves will naturally begin to yellow and wither. This is my way of saying I am exhausted. I have expended a tremendous amount of energy producing flowers and need to redirect my remaining resources to my most vital part: my tuber, which is my underground storage organ. This period of rest, often through the hot summer months, allows me to conserve energy and prepare for my next growth cycle. Please do not mistake this for dying; I am simply sleeping deeply.
When my foliage has died back completely, I need you to help me simulate my native Mediterranean summer habitat. Move my pot to a cool, dark place such as a basement or a garage where temperatures ideally stay between 50-65°F (10-18°C). It is crucial that you significantly reduce watering during this time. My tuber prefers to be almost completely dry, needing only a very slight amount of moisture every few weeks to prevent me from desiccating into a husk. Overwatering now would be a death sentence, causing my tuber to rot. Let me rest undisturbed in this quiet, cool darkness for two to three months.
As the days begin to shorten and the air cools in late summer or early autumn, I will start to stir. You will notice tiny new leaves emerging from the top of my tuber. This is your signal that my dormancy is ending and I am ready to be awakened. Do not jump straight to fertilizing or heavy watering. Gently bring my pot back into a location with bright, indirect light. A north or east-facing windowsill is perfect. Begin watering me slowly and carefully, moistening the soil but avoiding pouring water directly onto my tender new growth or my tuber's crown, as this can lead to rot.
Once I am actively growing new leaves, I need the right fuel and conditions to support the immense effort of flower production. Begin feeding me with a half-strength, high-potassium fertilizer every two to four weeks. This specific nutrient is like a signal to my system to prioritize blooming. I thrive in cool temperatures, ideally between 60-68°F (15-20°C) during the day and even cooler at night. This temperature differential is a key environmental trigger that tells me it is the right season to produce flower buds. Please keep me away from heat sources and direct, hot sunlight.
My watering needs are specific. I am highly susceptible to crown and stem rot if water sits on my tuber or in the center of my leaves. The best way to hydrate me is through bottom-watering. Place my pot in a saucer of water for about 15-20 minutes, allowing me to draw up the moisture I need through my drainage holes. Then, discard any excess water. Always allow the top inch of my soil to dry out between waterings. This method keeps my crown dry and happy, creating the perfect conditions for strong root health and, ultimately, a spectacular display of flowers for you.
