Cyclamen is a perennial plant known for its hardiness and longevity. Its resilience allows it to withstand winters and regrow year after year.
A Long-Lived Frost-Resistant Plant
Not only does the cyclamen endure winter's chill, but it can also thrive in full ground despite frosty conditions. Remarkably, this plant can live up to a quarter of a century. When grown indoors, cyclamen blooms for approximately three to three and a half months, with its flowering season often stretching until late March.
Optimal Care for your Cyclamen
Taking care of a cyclamen involves a few simple yet consistent steps. Firstly, any yellow leaves and wilted flowers should be removed to maintain its beauty and health. This plant prefers cool air, ideally not exceeding 15-18°C, and it should be placed by a north or east window, where it will receive adequate light but stay in a cool room.
When it comes to watering, moderation and frequency (2 to 3 times a week) are key. It's beneficial to wait until the cyclamen is dry before watering again, and it's important not to let it dry out completely. Avoid pouring water directly on its flowers and leaves. Additionally, the water used should be at room temperature and dechlorinated.
During the winter months, pay careful attention to the humidity of the air as cyclamens are sensitive to their environment. You can maintain the right humidity levels by placing a container of water near the plant or using colored pebbles at the bottom of the pot with water.
Non-Flowering Cyclamen: Potential Causes
If your cyclamen isn't flowering, it could be due to the plant's need for a change in its environment. It is originally a Mediterranean plant with a preference for distinctive seasonal changes.
Common Enemies: Rot and Mites
The main threats to cyclamen are rot and mites. Rot can be caused by water retention at the base of the rosette and insufficient air circulation, while another type of rot can affect the tubercle of cyclamen.
Determining a Cyclamen’s Health
A cyclamen might appear to be dead with wilting leaves, but don't rush to conclusions. This could be due to overwatering, overheating, or lack of light. If you notice yellowing leaves during spring, it's likely that the plant is simply entering its dormancy stage and not dying.