CARROLLTON — Winter’s darkness is slowly lifting, and houseplants are beginning their quiet comeback, says University of Extension field horticulturist Kathi Mecham. Early February, according to Irish folklore, is when life begins to awaken underground.
“Beneath the frozen soil, things are starting to happen,” Mecham said. Tree sap begins to flow, snowdrops push upward, and roots slowly resume growth. As days lengthen and indoor light increases, houseplants respond with signs of new growth as well.
Mecham explained that during winter, the sun sits lower in the sky, bringing shorter days and longer nights. Reduced and less intense light signals plants to rest. Growth slows, water needs decrease, and in some cases, leaves may drop entirely — an expected part of the dormancy cycle. “No need to be alarmed.
This is normal, and with special care, these plants will rebound in the spring,” Mecham said.
Some plants completely die back during dormancy:
Caladiums grow from tuberous corms and thrive in heat but not direct sun. Grown for their spectacular red, pink and white heart-shaped leaves, they bring vivid color to shade gardens. Caladiums are sensitive to cold and should be dug after the first frost and stored in moist peat in a dark place. For a head start, start them indoors in April, keeping soil temperatures above 70 degrees before planting outside.
Elephant ear, a group of tropical perennials, also lose all their leaves during dormancy. Their large heart-shaped leaves range in color from green and blue-green to burgundy and nearly black. They go dormant in cooler weather and must be stored in a dark location until growth resumes.
Cannas and dahlias lose their leaves after frost. Their tubers can be dug, dried and stored until spring.
Amaryllis lose their leaves in fall and require a resting period in a dark environment. When brought back into light, green leaf tips will emerge from the bulb. The flowers can be 4 to 10 inches across and range in color from white and pink to deep red, with apricot and salmon also popular.
Cyclamen can bloom for up to three months, producing flowers in white, pink, lavender and red. They prefer cooler temperatures and bloom through winter, but go dormant in late spring. When leaves fade, reduce water and fertilizer. Repot the tuber after summer dormancy. Cyclamen remains a favorite Valentine’s Day plant.
Shamrock plants grow from tubers and need cool conditions and bright light. Without enough light, stems become weak and leggy. They can be moved outdoors into partial shade after the risk of frost has passed. Overwatering can lead to root rot. In late fall, yellowing foliage signals dormancy. Stop watering and fertilizing, store in a cool, dark place, and resume care once new growth appears.
“Whether plants go dormant in winter or summer, the signs are similar,” Mecham said. “There will usually be reduced growth or yellowing and complete leaf drop. Less water is needed, and the risk of overwatering is greater. Dormant plants do not need fertilizer. Be patient, and soon you will have beautiful foliage or flowers — or both.”
