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