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