Florist Cyclamen

There are approximately 20 species of cyclamen. Most are tender (not able to withstand frost) with only a few hardy species. All are members of the primrose family. Florist cyclamen are tender, cool-season plants that bloom in a wide range of brilliant colors. The blooms are white, red, pink, rose or lavender and appear to hang upside down over the heart-shaped, mottled, green/gray foliage. A plant with a lot of buds can keep blooming for 3-4 months.

Plant Care:

When the flowers have faded, follow the stem down to the crown and firmly pull it out with your fingers. This will ensure continued blooming; Damaged and yellowing leaves should also be removed this way.

Water: Cyclamen prefer to be kept moist, so water frequently and thoroughly. Keep soil evenly moist to the touch, but not saturated. Don't let the plant sit in water. Avoid watering the crown of center of the plant. If the plant dries out too much, water it thoroughly, then set the plant on its side for an hour. This will help the flowers stand uptight.

Light: Cyclamen prefer bright, indirect, light. An east or west window will provide adequate light.

Temperature: Cyclamen prefer cool temperatures. Ideal daytime temperatures are 55-65 degrees and 45-55 at night.

Humidity: High humidity indoors during the winter is crucial. To maintain humidity, fill a large plate or broad, shallow pan or tray with water. Set the Cyclamen on an inverted dish, just out of the water.

Fertilizer: While flowering, feed about once or twice a month with Jack's Classic Blossom booster fertilizer.

Re-blooming: After the flowers have faded, the leaves will begin to yellow and wither. At this point, stop watering and allow the cyclamen to become completely dormant. Store the dormant tuber in a cool, dry location through the summer months. In autumn, when small leaves begin to emerge, place the cyclamen in a bright location and resume watering. Oftentimes the flowers are not as large, or vivid as when the plant was originally purchased. Frequently gardeners will discard the plant after its initial bloom.