Overwintering guide
How to overwinter cotton candy fern
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 cotton candy fern in winter
Bringing cotton candy fern 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 cotton candy fern care
Overwintering cotton candy fern — FAQ
Does cotton candy fern need to come indoors for winter?
Cotton Candy Fern is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Cotton Candy Fern 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 cotton candy fern for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water cotton candy fern in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills cotton candy fern over winter?
Bringing cotton candy fern 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.