How to grow cyclamen? Detailed guide to cultivation methods and precautions
I. Growing environment
1. Soil: Loose, fertile soil is suitable for cyclamen growth. When planting, the potting soil should be sterilized.
2. Fertilizing: Generally, fertilizing once every 10-15 days is enough. When repotting and changing soil, a moderate amount of base fertilizer can be applied. Fertilizing must be done with light fertilizer and frequent applications. When the temperature is high in summer, stop fertilizing.
3. Watering: During the growing period, keep the soil slightly moist. There must be no standing water in the pot. If it does not continue growing in summer, you can water normally.
4. Temperature: The suitable temperature for cyclamen in winter is 10-22°C, and the temperature difference between day and night must not exceed 10°C. It can bloom normally when the nighttime temperature is 8°C, but the flowering period will be shortened. If it is lower than 6°C, it cannot bloom normally.
II. Propagation methods
1. Seed propagation: First disinfect the seeds, then soak them in warm water for 24 hours. When sowing, the spacing between seeds should be 1-2 cm. After watering, place it in a dark environment, preferably with the temperature controlled at 18°C, cover it with plastic film, and it will germinate in about 20 days.
2. Stem cutting propagation: The corm must be more than 3 cm in diameter and have more than two bud eyes before it can be divided. The cutting tool must be sterilized, cut straight down to the root, apply plant ash to the cut surface, and after drying, it can be planted.
III. Common pests and diseases
1. Common pests: aphids, red spider mites and leaf rollers, etc., can be controlled with carbofuran.
2. Common diseases: leaf spot disease, soft rot, etc. When the disease occurs, it can be treated by spraying with a Topsin aqueous solution.