How to Care for Succulents Indoors During the Winter

Succulents are plants with fleshy, moisture-filled foliage and are capable of storing water for extended periods of time. Cacti are considered succulents, along with numerous other plants, such as aloe vera, sedum and jade. Succulents grow actively during spring and summer, when temperatures are warm and there are many hours of sunlight. During winter, their development slows or stops completely, meaning their growing requirements change. This is also true for succulents grown indoors, as they are exposed to several hours less natural light each day as well as a drier atmosphere due to the use of winter heat.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Stop fertilizing your indoor succulents completely in early fall, when the plants stop growing. Add no additional fertilizer until growth begins again in spring.

   • 2

     Move potted succulents away from vents, as exposure to frequent bursts of hot air from the furnace may damage the plants.

   • 3

     Position the planters in a location protected from exposure to cold air from frequently opened exterior doors.

   • 4

     Relocate the succulents to a brighter location if the change of season results in insufficient exposure to sunlight.

   • 5

     Water only when the top inch of potting mix dries out during winter months. Provide just enough moisture to dampen the soil at each watering.