Overwintering Coleus, Spikes & Wasabi: What Survives Indoors

Your "annuals" don't have to be disposable. Coleus, spikes (Dracaena), and 'Wasabi' coleus can overwinter indoors with the right conditions.

Survival Assessment

• Coleus (roots only): If stems are alive, they'll resprout
• 'Wasabi' coleus (half leaves): Good chance with bright light
• Spikes (Dracaena): Excellent candidates—easy to overwinter
• Brown, collapsed spikes: Likely dead if frozen

Indoor Care Protocol

1. Light: Bright east, south, or west window (unobstructed)
2. Water: Deep soak every 5–7 days—saturate entire root ball
3. Drainage: Never let pots sit in standing water
4. Humidity: Mist occasionally or use pebble trays

Realistic Expectations

Annuals overwintered indoors often look rough by March. They're surviving, not thriving. Come spring, cut back hard, repot in fresh soil, and they'll explode with new growth.

The Annual Advantage

Remember: annuals give maximum summer impact with zero winter obligation. If overwintering feels like a chore, compost them and start fresh next year—no guilt needed.