Overwintering guide
How to overwinter cretan brake 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 cretan brake fern in winter
Bringing cretan brake 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 cretan brake fern care
- Overwintering cretan brake fern — the species this cultivar belongs to
- Overwintering cretan brake fern — our other guide for the same plant
- Full cretan brake fern care guide
- Cretan Brake Fern temperature range
- How often to water cretan brake fern
- How to prune cretan brake fern
- Common cretan brake fern problems & fixes
Overwintering cretan brake fern — FAQ
Does cretan brake fern need to come indoors for winter?
Cretan Brake Fern is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Cretan Brake 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 cretan brake fern for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water cretan brake fern in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills cretan brake fern over winter?
Bringing cretan brake 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.