How to cultivate cyclamen to make it more vigorous
Here are some small experiences in green plant maintenance for netizens on how to cultivate cyclamen to make it more vigorous and the correct cultivation methods and techniques. Keep reading!
Cyclamen, also known as the first-rate crown, rabbit ear flower, firewood flower, radish begonia, and spring flower, is a perennial herbaceous bulbous flower of the primrose family and cyclamen genus. Cyclamen has a sturdy shape, moderate height, abundant flowers and leaves, bright colors, a long blooming period, unique flower shapes, and some even have a sweet fragrance.
In recent years, it has emerged in the field of horticultural flower cultivation and has become an excellent choice for decorating rooms and living rooms in early spring, beautifying indoor spaces. Below is a detailed introduction on how to cultivate cyclamen:
1. Soil selection for cyclamen cultivation
The growing medium can be prepared with 3 parts humus soil, 2 parts forest leaf mold, 2 parts炉灰碴 (limestone slag), 2 parts river sand (sandy garden soil), and 1 part decomposed manure, with an appropriate addition of calcium superphosphate and other chemical fertilizers. This type of soil is loose and fertile, suitable for cyclamen growth. 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 methods
2. Fertilization method for cyclamen cultivation
Cyclamen enjoys fertilizer but not too concentrated ones. In addition to applying some base fertilizer during potting, it is generally possible to fertilize once every ten to fifteen days, focusing on applying thin fertilizers frequently. After planting, during the several-month-long vegetative growth period, organic liquid fertilizers can be applied at concentrations of 1:6, 1:8, 1:10, practicing the method of watering flowers with muddy water. After the summer begins, if the temperature cannot be controlled, fertilization should be stopped.
How to cultivate cyclamen to make it more vigorous
3. Watering method for cyclamen cultivation
Cyclamen can tolerate drought. However, during the growing season, the soil should remain moist, and the pot should not accumulate water. Cyclamen does not like overly moist soil, so watering should be frequent but in small amounts. If it does not go dormant in the summer, normal watering can be continued to keep the potting soil slightly dry. After the beginning of autumn, cyclamen enters the reproductive growth stage, at which time phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be applied. If plant stretching is observed, 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 blooming period will be slightly delayed; however, if it drops below 6°C, normal blooming will not occur.
5. Light requirements for cyclamen cultivation
Temperature and light both have a certain impact on the growth and development of cyclamen. Throughout the entire growth process, the main focus is on temperature control to extend the blooming period. By the end of April, when the number of flowers decreases, the potted plants should be moved from the greenhouse to a location with good ventilation, coolness, and scattered light. Changes in climate, suitable temperature, and light can cause cyclamen to produce more flower spikes and continue blooming. In the Yangtze River Valley and its southern regions, leaves gradually turn yellow in May, which is a reflection of increasing temperatures. At this time, watering should be controlled. In the summer, if possible, cooling equipment should be used to lower the ambient temperature.