How to Care for a Cyclamen Flower

Cyclamens arrive at the nurseries already potted in a growing medium.

The cyclamen flower requires special care to keep it thriving as a houseplant. Native to the Mediterranean, it grows from tubers, similar to and often classified with bulbs, though technically not a bulb. The cyclamen flowers appear in colors of white, pink and red. The flowers bloom in cool, damp weather when in its natural habitat. Because of its fussy nature, cyclamen takes a dedicated houseplant enthusiast to keep it in optimal health. Cyclamens often are given as gifts, but the givers might want to make sure the receiver doesn't mind giving it the care it requires.

Things You'll Need

• Potted cyclamen plant
• Water soluble fertilizer

Instructions

1. Place the cyclamen plant in a room with cool and adequate air circulation. During autumn to spring, cyclamen requires bright light. When placed in a Southern window, monitor frequently for sunburn. Move to a different area if sunburn appears.

2. Maintain room temperatures at 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night and less than 68 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. A dry room temperature of 70 degrees or higher will result in a poor blooming period. The leaves yellow when less than optimal temperatures are present.

3. Water cyclamen carefully. It doesn't like dry or water-logged conditions. When the surface of the soil feels dry, its time to water the plant. Soak cyclamen thoroughly and make sure the water drains out completely. Let it dry out partially, then give it the next soaking. There's a fine line between watering too much and not watering enough, so maintain proper moisture conditions.

4. Fertilize cyclamen every three to four weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Remove dead leaves and stems by giving them a sharp tug. Take care not to yank part of the tuber out of the soil.

Tips & Warnings

• Most people discard cyclamen after the bloom cycle because of the difficulty of maintaining them.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: Cyclamen Care; Jean Galligan; 2001