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Root Rot in Cyclamen
verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
Cyclamen persicum is a winter-blooming indoor plant known for its delicate, butterfly-like flowers that range from white to pink, red, and purple, held above attractive mottled foliage
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Cyclamen care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to root rot in Cyclamen. Check each one as a potential cause.
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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.
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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.
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Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity (50–70%). Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray with water, but do not mist the plant directly to avoid crown rot.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Cyclamen
- fiber_manual_recordBrown, mushy roots
- fiber_manual_recordYellowing leaves
- fiber_manual_recordWilting despite moist soil
- fiber_manual_recordFoul smell from soil
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Common causes in Cyclamen
- fiber_manual_recordOverwatering
- fiber_manual_recordPoor drainage
- fiber_manual_recordFungal pathogens
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How to diagnose root rot in Cyclamen
Remove plant from pot. Healthy roots are white/tan and firm. Rotted roots are brown/black and mushy.
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How to treat root rot in Cyclamen
Trim all rotted roots with sterile scissors. Treat with hydrogen peroxide solution. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
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Preventing root rot in Cyclamen
Always use pots with drainage holes. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings. Use well-draining compost.