Carolina

Hi!

Bought a DC back in July and it was going pretty good....until....

As the nights got cooler, I began to bring it in, putting it back out in the mornings when the temps rose high enough. Now, many of the lower leaves have yellowed and I've cut them off, only to be left with about 6 leaves, a couple of which look sickly.

My thoughts were to try and overwinter in the house, knowing to cut back on the watering. I'm now beginning to second-guess that decision since he seems to be doing so poorly so soon.

It's my understanding that in order to have any chance for fruit that I can't let it go dormant. Any thoughts, suggestions.... helpful hints?

Bananavilla

If you can't provide the ideal Light Level and Temperature through winter, you are better off letting it go dormant. As long as the stem stays firm and doesn't rot or freeze you will be good to go for an early spring start.
I would just bring it in and cut back on water. If the leaves start looking too shabby cut them all off excecpt for if there is one unfurled coming out of the trunk. This complete stalk/potted root system will be ready to shoot out new growth as soon as spring temps arrive.
Mike

Carolina

Thanks for responding, Mike.

I'm wondering what exactly constitutes dormancy. Should I keep it away from light and heat? Would trying to keep it from going dormant cause more harm than good?

Can I hope for fruit next year?

Thanks in advance.

Bananavilla

I wouldn't worry too much about the exact state that it is in. Bring it in, keep it as warm as you can. If it get's enough light to stay healthy in appearance or keep growing - GREAT! If not, trim the leaves and don't worry about it. Just don't let that stem freeze and you have a good chance for fruit.
Mike

Carolina

Thanks alot for the help. Really appreciate your time.

saturn

I overwinter all mine in the house.
Sometimes, after bringing them in, they look really crappy. Sometimes they start to look better, sometimes they look pretty ratty all winter. Generally they perk up come next spring.
I do not think it is true that letting it go dormant does anything to fruiting potential. Just puts it on hold

saturn