Overwintering guide
How to overwinter bishop's cap cactus
Winter watering
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
The mistake that kills bishop's cap cactus in winter
Bringing bishop's cap cactus into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.
More bishop's cap cactus care
Overwintering bishop's cap cactus — FAQ
Does bishop's cap cactus need to come indoors for winter?
Bishop's Cap Cactus is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Bishop's Cap Cactus will take cool conditions but not a hard freeze, so the aim is a frost-free winter rather than a warm one. An unheated greenhouse, porch, conservatory or bright garage all work well. Keep it cool, bright and on the dry side, and it will hold steady until growth restarts in spring.
When should I move bishop's cap cactus for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water bishop's cap cactus in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills bishop's cap cactus over winter?
Bringing bishop's cap cactus into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.