Cyclamen care tips

Cyclamen plants thrive in cool conditions, ideally between 16 to 18 degrees Celsius, and should not be placed near radiators or in direct sunlight. They also benefit from being outdoors at night, provided they are protected from frost.

Proper watering techniques

To water a cyclamen, use a saucer under the pot to allow the soil to absorb water through capillarity, or water along the edges of the pot without wetting the leaves or center of the plant. If the soil is very dry, submerge the pot in water for a few minutes. Always remove excess water after 15 minutes to prevent root rot.

Fertilizing and maintenance

During the flowering period, use liquid fertilizer for flowering plants every 15 days. Remove wilted flowers regularly to encourage new blooms. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged, and ensure the saucer is emptied after watering to avoid standing water.

Post-flowering care

After flowering, place the cyclamen in a cool, shaded spot and let it rest. The foliage will eventually die back, and new leaves should appear by late summer. Repot if necessary and bring the plant indoors in early autumn to resume normal care.

Common issues with cyclamen

Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, especially if the leaves are also soft. Cyclamen require regular watering, but the soil should not be saturated. Watering from the bottom using capillary action can help mimic natural conditions and prevent root rot.

Cyclamen species and hardiness

There are several cyclamen species, including the hardy Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum, which can tolerate colder temperatures. The Cyclamen persicum, commonly found in florists, is not frost-hardy and must be grown indoors. Hybrid varieties are also available in a range of colors and are suited for indoor cultivation.

Planting cyclamen

When planting cyclamen, choose a pot with a diameter of about 15 cm and line the bottom with clay pebbles for drainage. Use a mix of universal soil and heather soil or leaf mold. Plant the bulb so that it is partially covered, with the top portion exposed. Plant in late summer or early autumn, spacing bulbs 10 to 20 cm apart in garden beds or containers.

Encouraging re-flowering

After flowering, cyclamen need a rest period. Remove spent flowers and place the plant in a cool, shaded area outdoors or in a cooler room. In autumn, increase watering and return the plant to a warmer, brighter location to encourage new growth and flowering.

Cyclamen in autumn arrangements

Cyclamen can be used in creative autumn arrangements. For example, pair them with decorative cabbages and aromatic herbs in a metal basket for a rustic look. Create a two-tiered arrangement with grasses and sedums in a large pot, or mimic a forest floor with moss and ferns in a wide container for a serene, Zen-inspired display.