Succulents love the sun, but when winter arrives, things change a bit. So, how much sunlight do succulents need in this season? Let’s discover!
If you’re wondering how much sunlight your succulents need during the colder months, you’re not alone. Winter can bring new challenges when caring for succulents, but don’t worry—your plants can still thrive with the right care.
The Dormancy Factor
In winter, many succulents go dormant, which is their way of coping with shorter days and colder temperatures. When succulents are dormant, they stop growing and require less sunlight compared to the warmer months. However, they still need some light to stay healthy, so it’s important not to ignore their sunlight needs completely.
How Much Sunlight Do They Need?
Even though succulents don’t need as much sun in the winter, they still need about three to four hours of indirect sunlight every day. If they don’t get enough, you’ll start to notice them becoming “leggy,” where the stems grow long and thin as they stretch toward the light.
A bright spot near a south or east-facing window works best, as these spots get the most sunlight during the day. While direct sunlight can be too intense in the summer, the softer winter light is ideal for succulents, keeping them beautiful without causing any sunburn.
If your home doesn’t get enough natural light in the winter, consider using grow lights. These lights can mimic the sun, giving your succulents the light they need to stay healthy indoors. It’s an easy solution if you live in a place with shorter daylight hours during the colder months.
Indoor Care—Direct or Indirect Sunlight?
While succulents generally love direct sunlight during the warmer months, in winter, too much direct sunlight through a window can still be too harsh. Bright, indirect sunlight is your best bet for keeping your succulents healthy indoors. Find a spot where they get plenty of light but are shielded from the full force of the sun, especially if your windows let in a lot of light.
Should You Move Succulents Outdoors in Winter?
In winter, outdoor succulents are a different story. If you live in a place where temperatures drop below freezing, it’s best to bring them indoors. Cold-hardy succulents like Sempervivum can survive low temperatures, but tender succulents will suffer if left outside in freezing weather. Always keep an eye on the forecast and move your plants inside before the first frost to protect them from the cold.
The Right Spot and Temperature Control
Where you place your succulents indoors during winter matters. Make sure they get enough light, but also keep them in a spot where the temperature stays steady. Succulents prefer temperatures between 50-55°F in the winter, so ensure they’re not sitting too close to drafty windows or cold areas that could shock them.
Bonus Winter Tips
- Watering Less: Since succulents aren’t actively growing in winter, they need less water. Overwatering is the main culprit for root rot, so make sure the soil dries out between waterings.
- Watch for Pests: Winter heating can bring dry indoor conditions, attracting pests like mealybugs. Check your succulents regularly, and if you spot pests, dab them with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol.
- Repot Only If Needed: Winter isn’t the best time for repotting, as your succulents are not actively growing. Wait until spring if you need to repot them.
So, how much sunlight do succulents need in the winter? The answer is not as much as in the summer, but still enough to keep them happy. So, now you have the whole guideline to take care of your succulents. Try these tips and do share your stories with us in the comments below!
