Prickly pear cactus are not hardy and must overwinter in a frost-free place. We'll show you what you need to consider.
When summer comes to an end and the first frosty nights threaten, your prickly pear cactus has to leave its outdoor location. The tropical plant shuts down all life functions in the cold season. To ensure that the cactus (Opuntia) survives the winter months well and continues to grow nicely next year, a few precautions are important.
In warm countries, the climatic conditions for the prickly pear are ideal. However, if kept in northern countries with frosty winters, it needs a suitable place to overwinter. The plant stops growing completely at low temperatures. After the winter, the opuntia shows itself to be very vigorous again. So, the most important condition is protection from sub-zero temperatures. The prickly pear cactus tolerates short forest breaks well, but it must not be left outside permanently in winter. The optimum temperature is between zero and six degrees.
The winter quarters should look like this
The wintering place should not only be warm, but also light and well ventilated. It is best to avoid dark basement rooms or heated living rooms, as the prickly pear cactus quickly begins to rot in stuffy air. Overwintering in a so-called cold greenhouse or an unheated conservatory would be ideal. Incidentally, moving to a cool room is also good for the Opuntias, which are otherwise on the windowsill in the living room.
In winter the cactus hardly needs any water
Before the plant moves to its winter quarters, water it vigorously again. During the hibernation, the prickly pear hardly needs any more water. Only provide the plant with a few drops of water when the substrate feels really dried out. It is best to use rainwater, stagnant tap water or filtered water for watering.
By the way: If the cactus shrinks during the winter due to lack of water, that's no problem. As soon as it gets lighter and warmer again in the spring, you can water more again so that the plant becomes taut again.
» Reading tip: Water and fertilize prickly pear cactus - this is how it's done.
Slowly getting used to the warmth after the winter
Do not move the prickly pear to a warmer place immediately after hibernation. A familiarization phase makes it easier for the plant to adapt. Increase the temperature gradually, for example by airing the room regularly during the warmer hours of the day. The rest is done by the sun's rays, which regain their strength in spring. Incidentally, the same slow transition is also good for the prickly pear cactus at the beginning of winter.
Summary:
- choose a dry, frost-free pitch
- pay attention to brightness and ventilation
- Water little or not at all
- ideal temperature range between zero and six degrees
- gradual acclimatization to warmer temperatures after hibernation