How to Grow Cyclamen Plant
Cyclamen is a popular, easy to grow plant, that is grown both indoors and
out. Cyclamen are members of the Primrose family, and are native to Europe,
Northern Africa and Western Asia. There are 20 species of cyclamen plants,
most of which are hardy. They have attractive, dark green, heart shaped leaves.
Flowers bloom profusely in a wide range of colors.
It's easy to take care of cyclamen plants. Because they grow well in semi-shaded
areas, they make good houseplants. Most varieties grow about 4-6 inches,
making them good candidates for indoor pots and containers.
When grown as outdoor plants, we recommend they be placed in areas around
trees and in rock gardens, similar to their native habitat.
Propagation of Cyclamen Plants:
Cyclamen is most often propagated from its tubers (roots). Dig up tubers
and divide into sections. Each section must have at least one eye. Replant
divided tubers, planting just below the soil level.
Cyclamen seeds can also be harvested from spent flower blooms. Horticulturalists
use this method to cultivate new varieties.
How to Grow Cyclamen:
Cyclamen plants grow well in a variety of soils and a wide pH level. They
do their best in a rich, well drained soil, with a slightly acidic soil pH.
Prior to planting, mix in compost and organic matter to the planting
area.
Plant cyclamen tubers just below the soil level, no more than 1 to 2 inches
deep.
Water plants well, and allow the soil to dry a little between waterings.
Use bottom watering for indoor plants. Do not allow the soil to remain wet
and soggy, as root rot will likely occur.
Add fertilizer monthly. For indoor plants, use fertilizer spikes or liquid
fertilizer.
Different varieties of cyclamen will bloom at varying times and frequency.
To promote blooms, add a fertilizer high in phosphorous, and increase the
light level.
Insects and Disease:
Cyclamen experience few insect and disease problems. Root rot is the most
common. It can be avoided by well drained soil. Houseplant pots need to have
a hole in the bottom for good drainage.
Hardiness:
Most varieties of cyclamen are hardy. However, there are a few that will
not survive a frost. If you are not certain as to the hardiness of the variety
you have, cover plants, or bring them indoors when cold weather arrives.
Give your houseplants a boost.
Several varieties of specifically
formulated plant fertilizer spikes.
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