How should dormant plants be maintained during winter?

Dormant plants should be stored in a cool, dark place during the winter to simulate their natural resting period and prevent them from breaking dormancy prematurely. In this state, plants require minimal light and warmth, as they are not actively growing. The cool temperatures reduce metabolic activity and help protect the plants from the stresses of winter.

Maintaining plants in a warm area or under a heat lamp can lead to them waking up from dormancy, which can cause damage or death, especially if they are not adequately cared for at that time. Storing them in bright light is also not suitable, as light can trigger growth signals, contradicting the objective of keeping the plants dormant. Hence, the optimal environment for dormant plants is cool and dark, allowing them to rest until the appropriate conditions for growth return in the spring.