Overwintering a Cup and Saucer Vine can be a bit tricky, as it is a perennial climber that is not frost-tolerant. However, with proper care and attention, you can try to hibernate the plant indoors and ensure its survival through the winter.
1. Pruning: Before bringing the plant indoors, it is important to prune it back. This helps reduce its size and also encourages new growth once spring arrives. Trim the vine by removing any dead or damaged branches, and also cut back the long, sprawling stems. Be careful not to remove too much foliage, as the plant still needs some leaves to photosynthesize and produce energy.
2. Potting: Once pruned, carefully transplant the Cup and Saucer Vine into a suitable pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current rootball, ensuring it has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients and aeration for healthy growth.
3. Location: Find a suitable spot indoors where the vine can receive adequate light and cool temperatures. Ideally, place it near a south-facing window that receives bright, indirect sunlight for several hours a day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement it with grow lights to ensure the plant receives sufficient light energy.
4. Temperature: Cup and Saucer Vine prefers cool temperatures, ideally around 60-65°F (15-18°C). Avoid placing it near heat sources or drafty areas, as extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant. A cool room or an unheated porch can be a good location if the temperature remains relatively stable.
5. Watering: During winter, the plant’s water requirements decrease. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but do not let it completely dry out. Stick your finger into the soil to check its moisture level before watering. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Adjust your watering frequency accordingly based on the humidity levels in your indoor environment.
6. Fertilizing: While the plant is in its dormant phase, it does not require regular fertilization. You can suspend fertilizing until spring when new growth emerges. Once the plant starts actively growing, you can resume regular feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions.
7. Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the plant’s overall health and watch for any signs of pests or diseases. Spider mites can be a common problem when overwintering indoor plants, so regularly inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of infestation. If necessary, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
8. Dormancy and Spring Care: During winter, the Cup and Saucer Vine enters a dormant phase. It may lose some leaves, but this is normal. Reduce watering further during this period, as the plant’s growth slows down. As spring approaches, increase watering gradually and resume regular care to promote new growth.
By following these steps, you can increase the chances of successfully overwintering a Cup and Saucer Vine indoors. However, keep in mind that this plant is typically grown as an annual in areas with frost, so it may not thrive indoors for an extended period.
