How to Care for Cyclamen in Winter? Latest Care Tips Explained
Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) has vivid, delicate flowers and a long blooming period, and since it blooms around the Spring Festival, it is loved by a great many people. However, growing cyclamen in winter also comes with many problems, such as failure to bloom and root rot. So how do you care for cyclamen well in winter? Let's take a look.
1. Temperature requirements
Cyclamen has relatively high temperature requirements, especially in late winter, which is exactly its blooming period. It usually grows flower buds in December, so at this time you need to make sure the temperature is not too low, so as not to affect its normal blooming. The temperature needs to be kept between 15-18 degrees. Once it drops below 5 degrees, its growth will slow down, and it will bloom little or not bloom at all. Especially for growers in northern regions, where winter temperatures are relatively low, good insulation work is needed to ensure it can bloom normally. At the same time, also pay attention to keeping the day-night temperature difference within 10-15 degrees, and when growing it indoors, avoid placing it near radiators or heaters, as too high a temperature will shorten its blooming period.
2. Pay attention to water temperature
In winter, watering should not be too wet, to avoid root rot. When the surrounding environment of the plant has not changed, and the flower stems show signs of lodging, water it promptly, but pay attention to the water temperature, as water that is too cold can easily freeze and damage the plant. When using tap water for irrigation, first expose it to the sun for 2-3 days, and water only once it has reached the same temperature as the growing environment. In the south, winter watering should be warmed first, and then done at noon when the temperature is relatively high.
3. Do not fertilize too much
If it has not bloomed for a whole year, then when autumn comes, gradually increase the amount of watering, and in October-November it should be placed in a well-lit area for care. In mid-December, a small amount of fertilizer can be applied, or none at all. The first winter bloom is usually in November, and the second bloom is usually in December. When the plant is budding, you can apply some phosphorus fertilizer, which will make the flowers bloom better.
4. Watch out for pests and diseases
Cyclamen has dense branches and leaves, and diseases occur relatively often. The common disease is gray mold. When you find symptoms of disease on the plant, do not ignore it. First place it in an environment with good air circulation, keep it at a low temperature as much as possible, and reduce watering at the same time; when watering, do not splash water on the leaves. The plant should not have wounds, to prevent pathogens from entering. If there are dead leaves or old leaves, remove them promptly, as this can reduce the sources of pathogens.
The above is an introduction to how to care for cyclamen in winter. We hope it helps you. For more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.