As a Desert Rose plant (Adenium obesum), my survival is intrinsically linked to warmth and sunlight. When temperatures in colder US states begin to drop, it triggers a profound biological shift within me. My primary concern is the cold, which I am genetically unequipped to handle. To ensure I see the spring, you must understand my needs from my perspective.
I do not experience winter like a deciduous tree. Instead, I enter a state of forced dormancy. When temperatures consistently fall below 55°F (13°C), my metabolic processes slow dramatically. I stop growing and may begin to drop my leaves. This is not a sign of illness; it is a vital survival strategy. By shedding leaves, I conserve water and energy, reducing the demand on my system when sunlight is too weak for efficient photosynthesis. Do not be alarmed by this natural process. It is my way of saying, "I am shutting down to survive."
My greatest threat is frost and freezing temperatures. My sap is watery, and my cells are not fortified against ice crystals. When water within my cells freezes, it expands, rupturing the cell walls and causing irreversible damage, often seen as soft, mushy black spots on my caudex and stems. This damage is frequently fatal. I must be moved indoors long before the first frost is forecast. A consistently warm environment above 50°F (10°C) is my absolute minimum for survival, though I am much more comfortable and stable if kept above 60°F (15°C).
During my dormancy, my water needs are minimal. With no leaves and suspended growth, I am not actively transpiring. My thick, succulent caudex is designed to store water for long periods. The most dangerous thing you can do is continue to water me as you did in the summer. Soggy, cold soil will lead to root rot, as my roots are inactive and cannot absorb the moisture. Please water me only sparingly, perhaps once a month or even less, just enough to prevent my roots from desiccating completely. The goal is to keep my caudex firm, not plump.
While I am dormant, I still benefit from bright, indirect light. A south-facing window is ideal. This minimal light helps maintain basic cell function without prompting new, weak growth that would be vulnerable in the low-light conditions. Furthermore, the indoor environment can be very dry due to heating systems. While I am a desert native, extremely dry air can desiccate my stems. Placing my pot on a pebble tray with a small amount of water can create a slightly more humid microclimate around me without affecting the soil moisture.
As daylight hours lengthen and outdoor temperatures steadily remain above 55°F (13°C), I will begin to show signs of awakening, typically with small leaf buds. This is the time to gradually reintroduce me to more water and eventually, a balanced fertilizer. Do not move me directly into full sun; acclimate me slowly over a week or two to prevent sunburn on my tender new growth. This careful transition allows me to exit dormancy safely and begin a new season of growth.
