Making the most of autumn light
A seasonal tip for the weeks around the clocks going back
As the days shorten, Aeoniums need all the light you can give them. Without enough, they stretch towards the brightest spot and grow leggy and weak. Growth slows once the clocks go back at the end of October, so the next few weeks are the time to sort out where your plants will spend the winter.
Clean the glass
If you grow under cover, wash the glass of your greenhouse, conservatory or cold frame, inside and out. Take down any summer shade netting, or wash off shading paint. That lets in more of the light there is.
Find the brightest spot
Put your Aeoniums in the brightest place you have, ideally in full sun. Give each pot a quarter turn every week or two, so the rosettes do not all lean one way.
On a windowsill
Keep your plants close to the glass. A small grow light is worth thinking about for the short winter days.
- Aim to have tender varieties under cover by the time the clocks go back.
- Move everything else in before the first hard frost.
Skip the dark corners
A dark garage, shed or spare room is the wrong place for an Aeonium. Without enough light they stretch, go leggy and drop their leaves. We look for somewhere bright, cool, airy and frost-free: a greenhouse, polytunnel, cold frame, porch or conservatory.
Colour changes are normal as the light drops. Dark-leaved varieties such as Aeonium 'Schwarzkopf' turn greener, and Aeonium 'Blushing Beauty' fades from orangey pink towards lime green. The colours come back with the brighter light of spring.
Our Ultimate Aeonium Autumn Care Guide has a checklist for October and November.
If you want a few more plants for the brightest spot, have a look at our Aeonium collection.