From my perspective, the change is not a choice but a deep, instinctual response. As the days shorten and the light becomes less intense, I receive a clear signal from my environment. The sun, my primary energy source, is retreating. The drop in temperature is another critical cue. My metabolic processes, which were so vigorous during the long, warm days of summer, begin to slow down. This isn't a sign of illness or distress; it is a vital survival strategy. In my natural habitat, the tropical understory, the "winter" might be a drier, cooler period where resources are scarce. By entering a state of dormancy, I conserve my energy, retreating into my most resilient part: my rhizome or corm, buried safely in the soil. I am essentially going to sleep to wait for conditions that are more favorable for growth.
As I begin this process, you will notice clear physical changes. Do not be alarmed; this is a natural part of my cycle. The most common sign is that I will stop producing new leaves. The energy that was once directed towards unfurling magnificent new foliage is now being redirected inward. You may then see my older leaves begin to yellow, one by one. This is me reabsorbing the valuable nutrients from these leaves to store in my corm. Eventually, the leaves will wilt and die back completely. In some cases, especially if the environment is particularly cool or dark, I may appear to die back to the soil level, leaving nothing visible above the pot. It can look dramatic, but beneath the surface, my corm is alive and well, simply resting.
Your care for me must shift dramatically during this time. The goal is to keep my corm healthy and dormant, not to force new growth.
Watering: This is the most critical change. My water needs plummet because I am not actively growing or transpiring much water through leaves. You must significantly reduce watering. Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. The key is to provide just enough water to prevent my corm from shriveling up and desiccating. Overwatering is now the greatest danger, as my roots are inactive and highly susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Light and Temperature: While I need less intense light, I still appreciate a bright spot. An east or west-facing window is ideal. Please keep me away from cold drafts, heating vents, or radiators, as extreme temperature fluctuations are stressful. A consistent, cooler temperature (around 60-65°F or 15-18°C) is perfect for encouraging and maintaining my dormancy.
No Fertilizer: You must stop fertilizing me entirely. I have no need for extra nutrients while I am dormant. Applying fertilizer now would be ineffective and could potentially harm my sensitive, resting root system.
When the daylight increases and temperatures begin to warm consistently, you will see the first signs of my awakening. A new growth point, often a pointed spear-like structure, will emerge from the soil from my corm. This is your signal to gradually resume your regular care routine. Begin watering more frequently as the soil dries, and you can start with a diluted, balanced fertilizer once I have established a leaf or two. This gentle reawakening allows me to transition smoothly from my restful state back into a period of vigorous growth, ready to produce another season of beautiful foliage for you.
