Greetings, caretaker. I am your Crassula, a resilient being of succulent leaves and sturdy stems, hailing from sun-drenched, arid lands. The arrival of winter signals a time of deep rest for me, a period of dormancy that is as crucial as the vibrant growth of spring and summer. To guide you through this quiet season, I will explain my needs from my own perspective, focusing on the two elements most vital to my survival during the cold months: water and temperature.
In my growing seasons, I am an active being, stretching new leaves and roots, eagerly drinking the water you provide. But as daylight wanes and temperatures drop, my internal processes slow to a near standstill. I am not sleeping, but I am resting deeply. During this dormancy, my need for water diminishes dramatically.
Think of my soil as an extension of my roots. The single most important rule for my hydration in winter is to ensure my soil is completely dry before you even consider offering more water. I would much rather be too dry than too wet. When my soil remains damp for extended periods in the cold, my roots, which are also resting, cannot absorb the moisture. They begin to suffocate and rot in the cold, waterlogged environment. This root rot is a silent, swift killer that can claim my life from the ground up before you even notice a problem in my leaves above.
A good practice is to test the soil moisture by feeling it deep down, not just on the surface. When in doubt, wait a few more days. My plump leaves are designed to store water for long periods; I will draw upon these reserves. You might notice my lower leaves softening slightly or even wrinkling a little—this is my signal of thirst, a much safer indicator than a calendar. When you do water, do so thoroughly but sparingly, mimicking a light winter rain in my native habitat, and always ensure any excess water can drain freely from my pot.
My fleshy leaves and stems are filled with water, and this makes me exceptionally vulnerable to freezing temperatures. When the water inside my cells freezes, it expands, rupturing my cell walls and causing irreversible damage. This manifests as blackened, mushy, and translucent leaves—a state from which I cannot recover.
My absolute minimum survival temperature is around 40-45°F (4-7°C). However, for me to remain truly healthy and avoid stress, I prefer a stable winter environment between 50-55°F (10-13°C). This cool period is actually beneficial; it reinforces my dormancy and helps prepare me for robust growth when warmer days return. The greatest danger is not necessarily a brief, light chill, but a sustained freeze or a sudden, severe drop in temperature.
My placement is therefore critical. Please keep me away from drafty windowsills where icy air can seep in at night. Similarly, while I appreciate bright, indirect light, do not let my leaves touch a cold windowpane, as this can cause localized frost damage. A spot near a bright, interior window in a cool room is ideal. Beware, also, of placing me too close to heat sources like radiators or fireplaces. The intense, dry heat can shock my system and cause me to break dormancy prematurely, leading to weak, etiolated growth.
You must understand that my need for water and my surrounding temperature are inextricably linked. The cooler my environment, the less frequently I will need water. A Crassula kept in a consistently warm house (above 68°F or 20°C) may not enter full dormancy and may require slightly more frequent watering, though still less than in summer. Conversely, if I am in a very cool spot (near my minimum of 45°F), I may need water only once a month, or even less.
The key is to observe me. My leaves will tell you everything. Firm, plump leaves mean I am content. Slightly soft, wrinkled leaves suggest I am ready for a drink. But soft, mushy, or blackening leaves are a cry for help—they signal either overwatering, cold damage, or both. By respecting my natural cycle of winter rest and adjusting your care to these two fundamental factors, you will ensure I emerge from the cold season strong and ready to thrive.
