he Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina) has different needs each season. This guide provides month-by-month care instructions to keep your plant vibrant through changing weather conditions.

Part of our Wandering Jew Plant Care Guide (Pillar Page)

1. Spring Care (March-May)

Key Focus: Growth Revival

Essential Tasks:

• Increase watering as daylight lengthens (every 5-7 days)
• Begin fertilizing with balanced 10-10-10 formula
• Prune leggy stems to encourage bushiness
• Repot if rootbound (best time for root disturbance)

Pro Tip: The Missouri Botanical Garden recommends gradually acclimating indoor plants to brighter spring light over 2 weeks.

2. Summer Care (June-August)

Key Focus: Heat & Hydration Management

Adjustments Needed:

• Water every 3-5 days (check soil moisture daily in heat waves)
• Move from hot windowsills to prevent leaf scorch
• Mist leaves in dry climates (early morning only)
• Watch for pests (spider mites thrive in dry heat)

Outdoor Plants: Provide afternoon shade in zones 9-11 (USDA Heat Zone Map).

3. Fall Care (September-November)

Key Focus: Preparing for Dormancy

Step-by-Step Transition:

1. Reduce fertilizing in September → stop completely by October
2. Space out watering (every 10-14 days as growth slows)
3. Trim long vines by 1/3 to conserve energy
4. Bring outdoors plants inside when nights hit 50°F (10°C)

Leaf Color Tip: Cooler fall temps (60-65°F) enhance purple hues.

4. Winter Care (December-February)

Key Focus: Surviving Low Light & Dry Air

Winter Survival Checklist:

• Water sparingly (only when soil is completely dry)
• Place near brightest window (south-facing ideal)
• Use humidifier or pebble tray (40%+ humidity)
• Stop all pruning/fertilizing

Dormancy Note: Growth may pause completely – this is normal!

5. Transition Tips Between Seasons

Spring → Summer:

• Gradually introduce to stronger light over 7-10 days
• Begin pest prevention sprays (neem oil)

Fall → Winter:

• Clean leaves before bringing indoors
• Quarantine for 2 weeks if placed outside

Winter → Spring:

• Resume watering gradually as daylight increases
• Wait until consistent 60°F nights to move outdoors

6. Climate-Specific Adjustments

Expert Resource: University of Vermont Extension notes Tradescantia tolerates brief 40°F exposure but not frost.

7. FAQs

Q: Can I grow Wandering Jew outdoors year-round?
A: Only in USDA zones 9-11. Elsewhere, treat as annual or overwinter indoors.

Q: Why are winter leaves smaller?
A: Normal response to low light. Growth normalizes in spring.

Q: Should I use grow lights in winter?
A: Helpful for 4+ hours daily if natural light is poor.