If you have a Cyclamen now or you want to try cyclamen for big, bold winter color, here are some care tips to keep in mind for this plant.
First, are you aware that Cyclamen plants are actual a bulb, called a corn, planted in the soil? Keep this information in mind as you continue reading this blog.
Are you curious as to why you can only find blooming Cyclamen in late fall through early spring? That is because Cyclamens grow best in cool, humid environment. Temperatures too warm will cause the Cyclamen to begin to yellow and the flowers short-lived.
Water the soil as soon as it feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, and try not to water the center of the plant. If your Cyclamen becomes too dry, the leaves will wilt down and may fall off if left dry for too long at a time. Bottom line is to touch the soil with your finger to feel for moisture and water accordingly.
Dead-heading a Cyclamen (removing spent flowers) may promote renewed flowering. To do this, cut the dead leaves and spent flowers off with scissors. Be sure to remove completely, as stalks left on may rot and get gray mold disease.
Once the Cyclamen has finished blooming then the plant is ready to go into a dormant state. It looks like it is dying no matter how much care you are giving it. It isn’t dying, it is going to sleep for a few months.
Do you want to try re-blooming your Cyclamen for next winter? It is not that hard to do. The first step is to allow it to dry out. You can take the corns out of the soil and place them in some peat moss. Or, leave the corns in the pot and set the pot in a cool, dark place. You want your Cyclamen to remain dormant for about six months. Come mid-summer you can re-pot the corns or bring out the pot and start watering it again. Once the leaves start to grow, resume normal plant care and it should bloom shortly.
Give it a try. You have nothing to lose. And, if you are successful then you can give yourself a pat on the back for having a “green thumb.”
HAPPY GARDENING!!!!!