Question
I have this plant and need to know how to take care of it.
It has beautiful purple flowers and feels as if its a succalent plant.  

Please help.
Thank you

Answer
Hi Preddy,

In general, Cyclamen bloom during the cooler months and tend to go into semi-dormancy during the warmer months. This is the opposite of most other flowering plants. However, given the right conditions Cyclamen will bloom off-and-on all year long.

Cyclamen prefers lots of bright indirect light. Right in an unshaded north window would be great. Do not repot it because its root system is small and it needs to be potbound to bloom.

Water it thoroughly, then wait until the top half-inch of soil is dry before watering thoroughly again. It will wilt if it gets too dry so avoid letting it get that dry.

Cyclamen like cool temps as low as 45 degrees F. so try to keep it below 70 degrees. 55 degrees F. is the preferred temperature for flower production. If the temps become warmer than 70 degrees, it will go into dormancy and develop lots of yellow leaves. If that happens, reduce water (give it just enough water to keep it from completely drying out) and light until cooler temps return. By the way, the experts differ on this. Some say stop watering entirely and keep it in a cool, dry, dim place for 4 months starting in June.

Spider mites can be a problem so be vigilant and treat them promptly if they appear. Fertilize your Cyclamen monthly at half-strength when it is growing vigorously.

Some experts advise against top watering in order to avoid getting the corm (the hard bulb-like structure out of which the leaves grow) wet. I always top water and have not had a problem with this.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]