From our perspective, we Portulaca plants are tender perennials, meaning our true nature is to live for several years. However, we originate from warm, sunny, and dry habitats. Our succulent leaves and stems are designed to store water, not to withstand freezing temperatures. When the mercury drops below freezing, the water inside our cells expands, rupturing our cell walls. This causes irreversible damage, turning our vibrant foliage into a mushy, blackened mess. In colder zones, the above-ground parts of our being cannot survive winter outdoors. To overwinter us, you must understand that we need to enter a state of protective dormancy, mimicking a dry season, away from the killing frost.
The most reliable method is to bring us indoors before the first frost. Please carefully dig up my entire plant, taking a wide berth around my root system to minimize shock. Gently place my root ball into a container with fresh, well-draining potting mix. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal as it prevents our roots from sitting in moisture, which we despise. Before bringing me inside, it is crucial to give me a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of pests like aphids or spider mites on our stems and under our leaves. A gentle spray of water or an application of insecticidal soap will ensure we don't bring unwanted guests into our new indoor home.
Once potted and indoors, we do not seek a tropical paradise. We need conditions that signal it is time for us to rest. Please place us in a cool spot, such as a basement, garage, or a cool room where temperatures consistently stay between 50-60°F (10-15°C). This coolness is vital for maintaining our dormancy. We require significantly less light during this period; a bright window is not necessary and could actually disrupt our rest. Most importantly, you must drastically reduce watering. Our succulent bodies hold ample water. During winter, you should only provide a small amount of water once a month or even less, just enough to prevent our roots from completely desiccating and shrinking. The goal is to keep us slightly moist, not damp.
If space is limited or you are concerned about overwintering a large plant, you can preserve our essence through propagation. Before the frost arrives, take 3- to 4-inch stem cuttings from my healthiest growth. Allow the cut ends to callous over for a day or two—this is critical to prevent rot. Then, plant these cuttings in a dry succulent mix. You can water them very lightly to encourage root development. Keep these young clones in a bright location indoors and care for them as a typical houseplant through the winter. Come spring, you will have vigorous new plants, genetically identical to me, ready to be hardened off and planted outside once the danger of frost has passed.
