Growing Cyclamen Indoors

While it's often seen in the wild growing in forests or even in shady parts of the garden, cyclamen plants are commonly grown indoors as well. These little winter wonders normally bloom anytime between November and February when given the proper growing conditions. These plants provide a nice boost of color just when you need it to uplift your spirits during those dreary winter days. It's certainly the best medicine I've ever had for cheering me up.

Cyclamen prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil, or an equal mix of potting soil/compost, peat moss, and sand or perlite. If you're planting cyclamen, this is best performed during its dormancy periods, which for most species is summer. Plant them only about an inch or so deep, keeping the top portion of the tuber above the soil surface. Water just enough to moisten the soil and keep it in a cool, darkened location, or even a shady spot outdoors (preferably on its side or well protected from rain or other moisture, as too much moisture will rot the tuber).

You will begin to notice new growth some time in the fall, usually around September. At this time you can resume watering, again, keeping the plant moist but not too wet. You may also want to bring outdoor plants inside at this point. Give the cyclamen a boost of low-nitrogen fertilizer about every other week during its active growth and provide the plant with bright, indirect light. Cyclamen also prefer indoor temps of around 60-65 degrees F. and high humidity, especially in winter when the air generally becomes drier. A humidifier can help with this or simply place the pot on a tray of pebbles that's been filled with water.

Prior to blooming, the upright flower stems should have an abundance of buds tucked beneath the foliage. Depending on the species and its growing conditions, cyclamen plants will remain in bloom for about two months. These may be large flowering or small flowering. Flower color ranges from shades of red, pink, and purple to salmon, white, and even bi-colored. As the blooms begin to fade, the foliage will start to yellow. This is normal. The plant is simply going into its dormant period. Decrease the amount of light your cyclamen is receiving as well as hold off on both watering and fertilizing once it's reached its dormancy. Then simply repeat the cycle all over again so you can enjoy your little winter wonders year after year.

Resources: personal experience