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