Oxalis deppei (Lucky Shamrock) Dormancy Care in Japan

A gardener in Japan bought Oxalis deppei (Good Luck Plant) 2 weeks ago. Leaves drying. Heater on, watered daily, moved to balcony.

Diagnosis: Forced Dormancy + Overwatering

Oxalis deppei requires dormancy. Indoor heat + constant water = confusion, rot risk.

Correct Care Cycle

Phase	Action
Active Growth	Bright light. Water when top 1" dry. Feed 10-10-10 monthly.
Dormancy Trigger	Leaves yellow/die back. Stop water/feed.
Dormancy (1–3 months)	Cool (8–9°C / 46–48°F), dark, dry. Barely moist soil.
Rebirth	New leaves emerge. Warm, bright. Resume water/feed.

Immediate Steps

1. Stop watering. Let leaves wither completely.
2. Move pot to cool (8–9°C), dark place (unheated closet, garage).
3. Check monthly: if bone dry, add tablespoon water.
4. After 1–3 months, if no sprouts, move to warm/bright to force.

Key Point

Heater killed it. Warmth prevents dormancy → plant exhausts itself. Cool rest is mandatory.

Let it sleep. It will wake.