How to Cultivate Cyclamen Flowers
A comprehensive introduction to the cultivation of cyclamen flowers and the methods and techniques of growing cyclamen, let's follow the editor to see the specific content!
Cyclamen is a perennial plant from places like Greece, with propagation methods including seeding, dividing tubers, and tissue culture. Due to the susceptibility of cyclamen tuber cuts to bacterial infection and rot, seeding is the main propagation method for cyclamen. Cyclamen, also known as Solomon's seal, rabbit's ear flower, and rabbit flower, is suitable for pot cultivation. Below is an introduction to the planting and management methods of cyclamen.
Ⅰ. Seeding Planting Method
1. Prepare planting substrate
Cyclamen prefers loose, organic-rich soil, and a mixture of leaf mold, loam, and river sand in a ratio of 5:3:2 can be used. The soil should be disinfected before planting.
2. Select and treat seeds
Select plump, glossy brown seeds in September to October, and soak the seeds in a constant-temperature environment for 3 to 4 hours to promote germination. The water temperature for soaking should be around 30°C. After germination, avoid direct sunlight, and once a true leaf appears, the seedlings can be transplanted into pots.
3. Sowing process
Plant the seedlings on the prepared planting substrate with a spacing of 5 centimeters between them, and water once after planting.
4. Post-planting care and transplantation
The seedlings should be placed in a location without direct sunlight to grow, and after a period, appropriate lighting and watering can be supplemented. Maintain a temperature between 15 to 18°C and enhance ventilation. After the seedlings have grown 12 true leaves, they can be transplanted again, with 1/3 to 2/3 of the tuber exposed.
Ⅱ. Growth Environment Management
1. Lighting
Cyclamen enjoys light, and during the flowering and growing periods, it is important to maintain adequate lighting, especially in winter. Regularly rotate the pot to promote even lighting.
2. Watering
Cyclamen prefers moisture but is not tolerant to waterlogging. Watering should keep the soil slightly moist, with moderate watering. Avoid flooding and stop watering in summer while maintaining relatively high humidity in the air. After summer, water thoroughly once to promote cyclamen revival.
3. Temperature
Cyclamen prefers warmth, can tolerate low temperatures, and fears high temperatures. The optimal growth temperature for cyclamen is between 16 to 20°C. During flowering, keep the daytime temperature below 20 to 25°C. In summer, cyclamen enters a dormant period and should be placed in a shaded area with a temperature not exceeding 30°C.
4. Fertilization
Fertilize every 10 to 15 days, and after fertilizing, water the plant. Fertilizer and water should not splash on the plant. During the growing period, fertilize every 10 days with a dilute fertilizer. Apply 1 or 2 more fertilizations before flowering, and stop fertilizing during flowering. Pay attention to supplementing soil calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
5. Leaf arrangement
To maintain good ventilation and light penetration between the leaves, it is necessary to arrange the leaves properly. This can also make the flower colors more vibrant. The method is to pull the longer leaves to the outside and keep the shorter leaves inside, allowing the tuber to be partially exposed to the sun.
6. Soil and potting
Cyclamen prefers fertile, loose soil rich in trace elements. When repotting, add a base fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium.
7. Disease and pest control
Common diseases and pests of cyclamen include wilt and gray mold. It is important to control these promptly, especially when watering and fertilizing, as clean water is necessary. If a diseased plant is found, it should be treated promptly to prevent the spread to other plants. Fungicides such as methyl thiabendazole suspension and carbendazim wettable powder can be sprayed to prevent diseases.
The above information provides a comprehensive introduction to the cultivation of cyclamen flowers and the methods and techniques of growing them for your reference and understanding!