How to cultivate cyclamen to make it bloom more
This article provides a brief introduction to the knowledge of cyclamen cultivation to make it bloom more beautifully and the correct cultivation methods. Let's take a look together!
Cyclamen, also known as yipinjuan, rabbit ear flower, blazing flower,萝卜海棠 (radish begonia), and spring flower, is a perennial herbaceous bulbous flower of the primrose family. Cyclamen has a healthy shape, moderate height, and abundant flowers and leaves with bright colors. The flowering period is long, the flower shape is unique, and some even have a sweet fragrance.
In recent years, it has emerged in the field of horticultural flower cultivation, becoming an excellent choice for decorating living rooms and enhancing the beauty of indoor spaces in early spring. Below are detailed instructions on how to cultivate cyclamen:
1. Soil selection for cyclamen cultivation
The growing medium can be prepared with 3 parts humus, 2 parts forest leaf mold, 2 parts炉灰碴 (ash residue), 2 parts river sand (sandy garden soil), and 1 part decomposed manure, with an appropriate addition of calcium superphosphate and other chemical fertilizers. This soil is loose and fertile, suitable for cyclamen growth. When cultivating, the growing medium must be fumigated and strictly disinfected at high temperatures. The size of the cultivation container should be gradually increased according to the size of the bulb, and large pots should not be used for small seedlings.
Cyclamen cultivation method
2. Fertilizing method for cyclamen cultivation
Cyclamen enjoys fertilizer but not excessive amounts. In addition to applying some base fertilizer when potting, it can generally be fertilized once every ten to fifteen days, focusing on applying thin and frequent fertilizers. After planting, during the long period of vegetative growth, organic liquid fertilizers can be applied with concentrations of 1:6, 1:8, or 1:10, using the method of watering with turbid water. After the summer, if temperature control is not possible, fertilization should be stopped.
How to cultivate cyclamen to make it bloom more
3. Watering method for cyclamen cultivation
Cyclamen can tolerate drought. However, the soil should remain moist during the growing season, and water should not accumulate in the pot. Cyclamen does not like overly wet soil, so watering should be frequent but in small amounts. In the summer, if it does not enter dormancy, normal watering can be continued to keep the potting soil dry. After the beginning of autumn, cyclamen enters the reproductive growth stage, and phosphorus-potassium fertilizers should be applied. If plant growth becomes excessive, switch to applying calcium superphosphate or wood ash extract to control vegetative growth and promote bud differentiation and flowering.
4. Temperature requirements for cyclamen cultivation
The optimal growing temperature for cyclamen in winter is between 10-22°C, with a temperature difference of 8-10°C between day and night. If the night temperature is controlled at 7-8°C, it can also bloom, but the flowering period will be slightly delayed; however, if it drops below 6°C, it will not bloom normally.
5. Light requirements for cyclamen cultivation
Temperature and light both have an impact on the growth and development of cyclamen. Throughout the growth process, mainly consider extending the flowering period by manipulating the temperature. By the end of April, when the number of flowers decreases, the potted plant should be moved from the greenhouse to a well-ventilated, cool area with scattered light. Climate changes, suitable temperature, and light will also cause cyclamen to produce a batch of flower stems and continue to bloom. In the Yangtze River Valley and its southern regions, leaves gradually turn yellow in May, which is a reflection of increasing temperatures. At this point, watering should be controlled. In the summer, if possible, cooling equipment should be used to lower the ambient temperature.