Overwintering Lewisia plants can be a bit tricky, but with proper care, you can ensure their survival through the dormant season. During this period, which typically lasts from October to late February, it’s important to keep the plants moist. This means regular watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely. However, it’s crucial not to overdo it, as excessively wet conditions can lead to root rot.
In terms of temperature, Lewisia plants are generally tolerant of cold weather, but they prefer to be kept in an area with temperatures around 40-50°F (4-10°C) during the dormant season. This can be achieved by placing them in a cool but frost-free location, such as an unheated garage or basement. If you’re growing them in pots, you can also bring them indoors and place them near a window where they can still receive some natural light.
While it’s important to keep the plants moist during the dormant season, it’s equally crucial not to let them sit in waterlogged soil. To prevent this, ensure proper drainage by using well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes. If you’re growing them in the ground, consider amending the soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
As the growing season approaches, typically starting in late February, you can gradually increase watering. However, it’s important to monitor the moisture levels and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Lewisia plants have succulent leaves that can store moisture, which helps sustain them during hot weather. Therefore, they are quite resilient in dealing with dry periods.
In terms of watering schedule during the growing season, it’s best to water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry. This may vary depending on your climate and local conditions, so it’s important to monitor the plants closely and adjust the watering frequency accordingly. It’s generally better to underwater than to overwater, as Lewisia plants can tolerate some drought.
As the summer progresses, typically around week 35 onwards, you can start easing off with watering. This is especially important if you live in an area with hot and dry summers. Lewisia plants can go into a period of dormancy during extreme heat, and excessive watering during this time can cause stress to the plants. Therefore, it’s advisable to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, while still ensuring the plants receive adequate hydration.
Overwintering Lewisia plants requires keeping them moist during the dormant season and ensuring they are not exposed to excessively wet conditions. During the growing season, water regularly but avoid overwatering, as the succulent leaves of Lewisia can sustain the plants during hot weather. Monitoring the moisture levels of the soil and adjusting watering frequency accordingly is crucial for their overall health and survival.