From our point of view, the term "dormant" is a bit of a simplification used by humans. We Echeverias don't experience a deep, unconscious sleep like a deciduous tree. Instead, we enter a period of significantly slowed growth, a state of rest triggered by the shorter day length and cooler temperatures of winter. Our internal processes, from photosynthesis to water uptake, downshift to a near-standstill. This is not a sign of distress but a vital survival strategy to conserve energy when sunlight—our primary fuel—is less abundant and conditions are less than ideal for active growth.
You will notice clear physical signs of this rest period. Most noticeably, our growth will completely halt. You will not see any new leaves emerging from our center (the rosette). Our vibrant colors, often intensified by sun stress, may fade to a more solid green or blue-green hue as we receive less intense light. This is because we are producing less of the protective pigments like anthocyanins. Crucially, we may even reabsorb and shed some of our oldest, lower leaves. This is a normal process where we pull nutrients and moisture from these leaves to sustain our core, so a few dried leaves at our base are no cause for alarm.
This is the most critical adjustment you must make for our well-being. With our metabolic functions slowed, our need for water plummets. Our soil must be allowed to dry out completely and remain dry for much longer periods. In our native habitats, winter is often a dry season, and our roots are highly susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil. During deep winter, you may only need to offer us a small sip of water once a month, or even less, just enough to prevent our roots from desiccating completely. The key is to ensure our pot and soil have excellent drainage.
While we are resting, we still require as much bright, indirect light as you can provide. A south-facing windowsill is ideal. Without sufficient light, we will etiolate—stretch out unnaturally—as we desperately reach for a light source, weakening our structure. Furthermore, we appreciate a cooler environment during this time. Temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C) are perfect, as they help maintain our dormant state. It is imperative to keep us away from both freezing cold, which will cause irreparable cell damage, and sudden bursts of heat from radiators or heating vents, which can confuse our natural cycle.
Please understand that winter is our time off. We cannot process fertilizer in our dormant state; providing it will only lead to a harmful buildup of salts in the soil and can damage our root system. Any repotting or propagation should also be avoided. These activities require energy and root growth to recover from, which we are simply not equipped to expend until the longer, warmer days of spring signal us to wake up and begin our active growth phase once more.
