BCSS - Forum

I have several cactus seedlings that came up from seed planted in the greenhouse last January and was wanting to know if someone can offer some advice on the care of these small plants during this coming winter. All I read indicates that you should not water cacti in the winter, It would seem that the little plants would die if left to go dry for that period of time. The largest seedlings that I have potted up are approx 2cm in height and there is still some seed germinating. I will keep the seedbed heated and moist so as not to loose these seedlings. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

I keep all my seedlings dry and cold through the winter. I don't lose too many but I only grow plants that will take a temperature a few degrees below freezing (a lot more than you'd probably imagine). Unless you live somewhere warm and sunny I would think that moisture and heat through the winter would lead to etiolation and fungal attack.

Hello,
I keep my seedling trays on the warmest spot of my winter storage room. The thermostat is set to 7-8 C, but because of lamps it is often warmer.
I give the seedlings light from 2 fluorescent lamps, and give a little water every 2-3 weeks.
I do not want them to grow, but also not to dry up too much. I do not loose many, and use this way since many years for a wide range of cacti, and other plants. Some species I believe are more sensitive, Disco, Uebelm. and maybe a few more goes to my office at work for the winter.
I have to be very careful when bringing the seedlings back to the greenhouse in the spring, not to burn them!
Good luck,
Torbjörn

Water if you keep them warm and growing, dry if you keep them cold and dormant. Anything beyond a couple of mm across should survive several months dry. I keep the smaller and more tender yearlings under lights.

Thanks to all for your input, it is appreciated. Happy Cactusing toooo

I give first year seedlings some water during their first winter.