How to care for cyclamen
As the most dazzling flowering plant on the windowsill in winter, cyclamen has captured the hearts of many flower enthusiasts with its butterfly-like flowers. However, to achieve the effect of flowering throughout the year and continuous blooming, it is necessary to master five key points in home care. This article will systematically analyze the scientific care techniques for potted cyclamen from substrate preparation to flowering management.
One, Substrate Ratio and Pot Selection
1.1 Breathable Substrate Formula
Using the golden ratio of decayed leaf soil: perlite: vermiculite = 3:1:1, and adding 5% bone meal to increase calcium. Retaining 1/3 of the protective soil when repotting each year can reduce stress reactions.
1.2 Pot Drainage Design
Choose a red pottery pot or a green mountain pot, with a 3cm layer of ceramsite at the bottom of the pot. Test the permeability: the bottom should leak water within 10 seconds after watering.
Two, Precise Fertilization Strategy
2.1 Nutritional Supplements During the Growth Period
Use slow-release fertilizer with N-P-K=10-15-10 from March to May, applying 5-8 granules per pot. Increase phosphorus and potassium fertilizers from September to November, and spray 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution on the leaves weekly.
2.2 Nitrogen Control Techniques During Flowering
Stop using nitrogen fertilizer during the bud formation stage and switch to special flower fertilizer (N-P-K=5-15-30). By rotating the pot 45 degrees weekly to ensure even light exposure, the flowering period can be extended to 120 days.
Three, Temperature and Light Smart Control
3.1 Seasonal Temperature Management
Keep the ideal temperature of 12-18°C in spring and autumn, maintain below 28°C in summer with air conditioning, and not lower than 8°C in winter. Controlling the day-night temperature difference within 5-8°C can promote bud differentiation.
3.2 Light Intensity Adaptation
Full sun care from October to April, and use 50% shading net from May to September. Install smart supplementary lights to ensure at least 4 hours of direct light daily, increasing the photosynthetic efficiency of leaves by 40%.
Four, Comprehensive Pest and Disease Control
4.1 Common Disease Identification
Gray mold disease initially appears as water-stained spots on leaves, which can be treated with 50% iprodione 1000 times solution. Soft rot disease requires timely removal of the affected part and application of plant ash to the cut surface.
4.2 Physical Pest Control
Hang yellow sticky traps to control thrips, and spread diatomaceous earth around the pot to prevent snails. Use 1000 times solution of matrine to pour into the roots monthly to prevent root-knot nematodes.
Through scientific substrate management, precise fertilizer and water control, and smart environmental monitoring, cyclamen can be enjoyed throughout the year. It is recommended to combine with a plant growth monitor to master key data such as EC value and pH value in real-time, allowing this "graceful fairy" to bloom beautifully for you year after year.