Cyclamen 4"

Cyclamen plants (Cyclamen persicum) are beautiful flowering plants prized for their vibrant, butterfly-like blooms and heart-shaped leaves with silvery patterns. They’re commonly grown indoors and are especially popular during the winter months. 

Light Requirements

• Best Light: Cyclamen prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so avoid placing it in a south-facing window without filtered light.
• Indoor Placement: An east or north-facing window is ideal. For outdoor growth, place it in a shaded area that gets morning sunlight.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Cyclamen thrives in cooler temperatures between 50-68°F. Avoid exposing it to heat sources like radiators or vents, as it dislikes hot, dry conditions.
• Humidity: While Cyclamen enjoys moderate humidity, ensure good airflow to prevent fungal issues. Use a pebble tray or mist nearby, but avoid misting the plant directly.

Watering

• When to Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but ensure you don’t let the soil dry out completely.
• How to Water:
  • Water from below by placing the pot in a dish of water and allowing the soil to absorb moisture. This prevents the crown (base of the plant) from getting wet, which can cause rot.
  • Alternatively, carefully water around the edge of the pot, avoiding the crown and leaves.
• Drainage: Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom and causing root rot.

Soil Requirements

• Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix designed for indoor plants with added perlite or sand works well.
• Cyclamen prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.

Fertilization

• During Growth: Feed your Cyclamen every 2-4 weeks during its active growth and blooming period (fall and winter).
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20).
• Dormancy: Stop fertilizing when the plant enters dormancy in late spring or early summer.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Remove spent blooms and yellowing leaves by gently twisting and pulling them off at the base. This encourages new blooms and prevents rot.
• Avoid cutting the stems, as leftover stubs can rot.

Repotting

• Cyclamen rarely needs repotting, as it prefers to be slightly root-bound.
• Best Time to Repot: Repot in late summer or early fall before new growth starts. Use fresh soil to give the tuber nutrients for the next growth cycle.
• How to Repot: Bury the tuber so the top is just above the soil surface. This prevents the crown from staying too wet.

Dormancy Cycle

Cyclamen plants naturally go dormant after their blooming season. Understanding their cycle is key to long-term care:

1. After Blooming: As spring arrives, the plant will start to yellow and lose leaves. This is normal.
2. During Dormancy: Reduce watering significantly but don’t let the tuber dry out completely. Move the plant to a cool, dry location with indirect light.
3. Reactivation: In late summer or early fall, resume watering and fertilizing when you see new growth.

Pest and Disease Management

• Common Pests: Watch for aphids, spider mites, or fungus gnats.
  • Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Diseases: Cyclamen can suffer from crown rot, root rot, or powdery mildew, especially if overwatered or in poor airflow.
  • Ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and maintain good air circulation around the plant.

Tips for Encouraging Blooms

• Keep the plant in cool temperatures during its active growing period.
• Provide consistent watering and light during fall and winter.
• Deadhead regularly to redirect energy to producing new flowers.

Toxicity

• Cyclamen is toxic to pets and humans if ingested, particularly the tuber. Keep it out of reach of children and animals.