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