Cyclamen care: watering, light and repotting
Also called persian cyclamen, florist's cyclamen · Cyclamen persicum · Primulaceae family
4 d in winter
How often to water the cyclamen?
Allow about 30 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 4 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
A winter plant: it likes it cool (54–61 °F, 12–16 °C). Water from the saucer, never onto the bulb. It rests in summer, almost dry.
What light does it need?
The cyclamen likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every year, ideally in September, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from January to December, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 8–12 in (20–30 cm).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Leaves and flowers collapsing
Cause: Room too warm. What to do: Move it to your coolest room.
Foliage yellowing in spring
Cause: Going dormant. What to do: Stop watering until September.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the cyclamen?
About every 30 days in spring and summer, and every 4 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the cyclamen?
The cyclamen likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the cyclamen?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the cyclamen?
Every year, ideally in September, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the cyclamen safe?
The cyclamen is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the cyclamen needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.