Cyclamen, those cheeky little floral show-offs, have a reputation for being a bit of a diva in the plant world. They dazzle us with their vibrant blooms and heart-shaped leaves, only to go into a dramatic dormancy period post-flowering. But don't despair, dear gardener! With the right care and a dash of patience, you can revive your outdoor cyclamen and keep the show going year after year.
Understanding Cyclamen Dormancy
First things first, let's clear up a common misconception. Your cyclamen isn't being melodramatic; it's just taking a well-deserved beauty sleep. This dormancy period is a normal part of the cyclamen's life cycle. It's their way of saying, "I've put on a great show, now let me rest my petals."
During this time, the plant may appear to be dead, with wilting leaves and no new flowers. But beneath the soil, the corm (the plant's underground storage organ) is alive and well, storing energy for the next blooming season. So, don't be too quick to write off your cyclamen as a lost cause!
Post-Flowering Care: The Basics
Now that we've established your cyclamen is just catching some Z's, let's talk about how to care for it during this time. The key is to strike a balance between giving the plant enough care to survive, but not so much that it's disturbed from its slumber.
Here's a quick rundown of the basics:
- Watering: Reduce watering but don't let the soil dry out completely.
- Feeding: Stop feeding the plant until new growth appears.
- Location: Keep the plant in a cool, shady spot.
- Pruning: Remove dead leaves but leave the corm alone.
Watering: Less is More
When it comes to watering your dormant cyclamen, think of it as a sleeping beauty. You wouldn't want to be doused with water while you're sleeping, would you? The same goes for your cyclamen. Too much water can lead to rot, which is a surefire way to turn your sleeping beauty into a soggy mess.
Instead, aim to keep the soil slightly moist. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant lightly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. And remember, cyclamen prefer rainwater to tap water, so if you can, collect some rainwater for this purpose.
Feeding: Hold the Fertilizer
While your cyclamen is dormant, it's not actively growing, which means it doesn't need as much food. So, hold off on the fertilizer until you see signs of new growth. This will usually be in the form of new leaves sprouting from the corm.
When it's time to start feeding your cyclamen again, opt for a balanced liquid fertilizer. Apply it every two weeks during the growing season to keep your plant happy and healthy.
Location: Keep it Cool and Shady
Cyclamen are a bit like vampires - they prefer the cool, shady spots. So, if your plant is currently basking in the sun, it's time to move it to a cooler, shadier location. This will help to prevent the corm from drying out and ensure your plant gets the rest it needs.
Remember, though, cyclamen still need some light, so don't banish them to the darkest corner of your garden. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.
Pruning: A Little Off the Top
Pruning your cyclamen is a bit like giving it a haircut. You want to remove the dead and dying leaves to keep the plant looking tidy, but don't get too scissor-happy. The corm should be left alone, as it's busy storing energy for the next blooming season.
To prune your cyclamen, simply snip off the dead leaves at their base. Be sure to use clean, sharp scissors to prevent the spread of disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my cyclamen not flowering?
There could be several reasons why your cyclamen isn't flowering. It could be in its dormancy period, it may not be getting enough light, or it could be over or under-watered. If your cyclamen isn't flowering outside of its dormancy period, try adjusting its care routine and see if that helps.
Can I bring my outdoor cyclamen inside?
Yes, you can bring your outdoor cyclamen inside, but be sure to provide it with a cool, well-lit spot. Cyclamen don't do well in warm, dry conditions, so avoid placing them near radiators or in full sun.
How often should I water my cyclamen?
During the growing season, water your cyclamen when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During dormancy, reduce watering but don't let the soil dry out completely.
When should I feed my cyclamen?
Feed your cyclamen with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Stop feeding during dormancy and resume when you see signs of new growth.
Conclusion
Reviving your outdoor cyclamen post-flowering is a delicate balance of care and patience. Remember, your cyclamen isn't dead, it's just taking a well-deserved rest. With the right care, you can ensure your cyclamen wakes up from its beauty sleep ready to put on another spectacular show.
So, don't be too quick to write off your cyclamen as a drama queen. With a little TLC, this floral diva will be back in the spotlight in no time!
