After planting a freshly purchased cyclamen, the world usually looks rosy. But the joy is only short-lived if the cyclamen is not looked after and cared for. Then he quickly runs out of breath. Here are care instructions.
How do I properly care for my cyclamen?
To properly care for cyclamen, the soil should be kept moderately moist and waterlogging should be avoided. Fertilize after flowering and water in winter too. Remove wilted flowers and ensure good drainage.
What is the significance of watering?
When dealing with cyclamen, watering is a priority. This plant does not tolerate dry substrate. On the other hand, it also cannot cope with accumulating moisture. Finding the middle ground can sometimes not be easy.
The soil should be kept moderately moist. It is important that the soil never dries out, especially during the flowering period between August and March. Otherwise the flowering will only last for a short time.
Before planting your cyclamen, ensure good drainage. Water generously, but not too zealously. It is also recommended to water from below and not directly onto the tuber, which usually protrudes slightly from the ground. If the tuber is watered, there is a risk of rot.
Does a cyclamen need regular fertilizer?
- fertilize after flowering
- Use compost or other complete fertilizer outdoors
- use liquid fertilizer in the pot (€8.00 on Amazon)
- Add liquid fertilizer in a weak concentration to the irrigation water
- in the pot: fertilize every 2 weeks during the main growing season
- Stop fertilizing from April
Are there any diseases or pests that pose a danger?
Cyclamens are generally he althy. But under stress, in the wrong location and with a lack of care, they can become vulnerable to pests. Particularly worth mentioning here are black weevils, which gradually eat up the leaves and deposit their larvae on the plant.
Cyclamen mites occasionally appear in the pot in the apartment. It's best to check your cyclamen regularly for mites. Then you can intervene quickly in the event of an infestation before it is too late
When growing in pots at home, an infestation with gray mold, a fungal disease, can also occur. This is especially the case if the cyclamen is too moist and cool (especially in winter).
How to cut the cyclamen?
The cyclamen does not need any shape or pruning. Only its withered flowers should be plucked out regularly for their appearance. Old stems can be twisted or pulled out with a jerk. It is important not to cut off the old stems!
Is wintering necessary?
Since cyclamen are hardy, they do not necessarily need winter protection. But if you want to be on the safe side, cover your cyclamen in the garden with a layer of compost in the fall or place brushwood over the root area. This serves as protection from the winter sun. Cyclamens in pots should be watered regularly, even in winter.
Tips & Tricks
Normally you don't have to repot the cyclamen. If you still want to do it, you should wait until the flowering period is over 6 to 8 weeks.
