The 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:
- Reduce fertilizing in September → stop completely by October
- Space out watering (every 10-14 days as growth slows)
- Trim long vines by 1/3 to conserve energy
- 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
| Climate | Summer Care | Winter Care |
| Tropical | Shield from monsoon rains | Reduce watering by 30% |
| Arid/Desert | Water daily + shade cloth | Group plants for humidity |
| Cold Zones | Grow outdoors June-August | Must bring indoors |
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.