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