Cyclamen

23 species are native to Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Native habitat ranges from alpine meadows, deciduous woodland, and areas of rock and scrub.

Good drainage is essential (all the above microclimates are likely to have freely draining or rocky soil). Florist’s cyclamen prefers bright indirect light, while Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum can be planted in full sun or light shade since they will be dormant during portions of the year when hot sun might burn them.

In the ground, cyclamen need no supplemental water. When grown in containers, it’s important that the soil does not dry out completely or be allowed to become too soggy. Using a freely draining potting mix, plant the tuber with its crown just above the soil surface, then add 1-2 inches of gravel or grit on top.

Varies some by species. For the two hardy species, Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum, very little maintenance is required. Clear up spent leaves and flowers at the onset of hot weather if desired, and ensure the area receives as little supplemental water as possible (none is best) until the first fall rains bring about active growth.

For florist’s cyclamen (which has been bred from Cyclamen persicum), some special care is required. It can neither tolerate freezing nor having the soil constantly wet, so it must be kept in a protected, covered location.

During cold snaps, more protection may be necessary. Many gardeners will bring them inside, but it is important to keep in mind that prolonged temperatures of 68 degrees or warmer will force it into “summer” dormancy. Therefore, a garage or basement may be the best protection during cold snaps.

Water containerized cyclamen by setting its pot in 2-3″ of water for about 30 seconds, and do so only when dry at least an inch down from the top.

To say the slugs like the leaves may be going too far, but in winter, a slug will eat any leaf it can find. Since cyclamen generally prefer places with some protection from winter rain, slug bait should be a viable control option.

Botrytis (grey mold) prefers many of the same conditions as cyclamen, and can be an especially bad problem for container grown cyclamen. Treatments include strong fungicides and are not always effective, so prevention is of the utmost importance. Avoid overwatering and never pour water onto the crown. When planting in containers, ensure the top of the tuber is above the soil and then cover it with an inch of grit. Cleaning up spent flowers promptly, encouraging good airflow (especially at night,) and avoiding excess nitrogen in the fertilizer will also help prevent botrytis.