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