What To Know
- This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right cyclamen to caring for them to ensure a vibrant display of blooms.
- You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or misting the leaves regularly.
- As the blooming season comes to an end, your cyclamen will enter a period of dormancy.
Cyclamen, with their delicate, heart-shaped flowers and captivating color palette, are a delightful addition to any home or garden. But knowing how to plant cyclamen correctly is crucial for their success. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right cyclamen to caring for them to ensure a vibrant display of blooms.
Understanding Cyclamen Varieties
Before you dive into planting, it’s essential to understand the different types of cyclamen.
- Hardy Cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum): These are the most cold-hardy varieties, suitable for outdoor planting in zones 5-9. They prefer shady conditions and well-drained soil.
- Persian Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum): These are the most common type found in stores. They are typically grown as houseplants and are less cold-hardy, thriving in zones 8-10.
- Other Cyclamen Varieties: There are other less common varieties, such as Cyclamen purpurascens and Cyclamen repandum, each with unique characteristics and growing needs.
Selecting the Perfect Cyclamen
When choosing your cyclamen, look for healthy plants with vibrant foliage and firm tubers. Avoid plants with wilting leaves or signs of disease. Here’s a checklist for selecting the best cyclamen:
- Check for Healthy Foliage: The leaves should be green, plump, and free from any spots or discoloration.
- Examine the Tubers: The tubers should be firm and free from soft spots or mold.
- Look for Flowers: Choose plants with open blooms or buds, indicating healthy growth.
- Consider the Size: Select a cyclamen that fits your desired space and container size.
Preparing the Planting Site
The success of your cyclamen depends heavily on the chosen planting site. Here’s how to prepare the perfect spot:
- For Outdoor Planting: Choose a shady location with dappled sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or leaf mold to improve drainage and fertility.
- For Indoor Planting: Select a pot with drainage holes and a size slightly larger than the cyclamen’s tuber. Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix.
Planting Your Cyclamen
Now, you’re ready to plant your cyclamen. Follow these steps for a successful planting:
- Planting Depth: Plant the tuber with the top half exposed. Bury the bottom half of the tuber in the soil.
- Spacing: For outdoor planting, space the tubers 6-8 inches apart.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy.
Caring for Your Cyclamen
Once your cyclamen are planted, providing proper care is crucial for their continued growth and blooming. Here’s a guide to caring for your cyclamen:
- Watering: Water your cyclamen regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Feed your cyclamen with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Light: Provide your cyclamen with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
- Temperature: Cyclamen prefer cool temperatures, between 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing them near heat sources.
- Humidity: Cyclamen thrive in humid environments. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or misting the leaves regularly.
Troubleshooting Common Cyclamen Problems
While cyclamen are relatively easy to care for, they can experience some common problems. Here’s how to address them:
- Yellowing Leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or lack of nutrients. Adjust your watering schedule and fertilize as needed.
- Wilting Leaves: This can be caused by underwatering or excessive dryness. Water your cyclamen thoroughly and ensure the soil is moist.
- Pest Infestations: Cyclamen are susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Time to Enjoy Your Blooming Cyclamen
With proper care, your cyclamen will reward you with a vibrant display of blooms for weeks or even months. Enjoy the beauty of their delicate flowers and the captivating colors they bring to your home or garden.
The End of the Story: Your Cyclamen’s Journey
As the blooming season comes to an end, your cyclamen will enter a period of dormancy. This is a natural part of their lifecycle. Here’s what you can do:
- Allow the Leaves to Die Back: As the leaves begin to yellow and wither, allow them to die back naturally. Don’t force them off.
- Reduce Watering: Gradually reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.
- Store the Tubers: For hardy cyclamen, leave the tubers in the ground. For Persian cyclamen, gently lift the tubers and store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How long do cyclamen blooms last?
A: Cyclamen blooms can last for several weeks, or even months, with proper care.
Q: Can I plant cyclamen outdoors in all climates?
A: Only hardy cyclamen varieties can be planted outdoors in colder climates. Persian cyclamen are best suited for indoor growing or milder climates.
Q: What should I do if my cyclamen has brown spots on its leaves?
A: Brown spots on cyclamen leaves can be caused by fungal diseases, overwatering, or sunburn. Adjust your watering schedule, ensure good drainage, and avoid direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my cyclamen?
A: Fertilize your cyclamen every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: Can I propagate cyclamen from seed?
A: Yes, you can propagate cyclamen from seed. However, it’s a lengthy process that requires patience and specific conditions.
