potted_plant
Cyclamen care requirements
water
Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; use the bottom-watering method by placing the pot on a tray of water and allowing the soil to absorb moisture from below. Avoid wetting the crown or leaves to prevent rot and disease.
soil
Use well-draining, peat-based or loam-based potting soil with added perlite. Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot and tuber decay.
light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Keep away from direct hot sun but ensure sufficient light to promote flowering. A north or east-facing window is ideal.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Cyclamen
- fiber_manual_recordFuzzy grey-brown mould on flowers, leaves, or stems
- fiber_manual_recordWater-soaked spots that turn brown and mushy
- fiber_manual_recordBlighted flower buds that fail to open
help
Common causes in Cyclamen
Caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea (grey mould), which thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor air circulation, often spreading rapidly on damaged or ageing plant tissue.
healing
How to treat botrytis blight in Cyclamen
Remove and destroy all affected plant material immediately, improve airflow around the plant, and apply a fungicide labelled for Botrytis if the infection is spreading.
shield
Preventing botrytis blight in Cyclamen
Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, water at soil level, deadhead spent flowers promptly, and ensure good ventilation, especially in humid weather.