Dormancy

Cyclamen plants are active growers in the winter months and they go dormant in late spring or early summer. When warm weather approaches, flowering typically stops and the leaves turn yellow. That’s a sign that the plant needs a rest. Some people simply toss out the plant at this point but, if you’re patient, you can encourage a second bloom later in the year. In fact, this is the ultimate lazy gardener plant.

The goal is to mimic the plant’s life in its native habitat. Gradually reduce watering when it stops flowering. Let the leaves turn yellow and wither. Place the plant in a cool spot for a few months where it will remain dry (withhold water entirely). The tuber has stored the necessary energy so you need not worry that the plant will die. When shoots appear in late summer, move the pot to a bright window and begin watering again. It’s that simple.

Cyclamen generally do not need repotting, but if you choose to repot, use a good potting mix and place the tuber close to the soil surface so that it’s slightly exposed. This prevents water from collecting in the tissues, which can rot.

For more information on growing cyclamen, see:

The Cyclamen Society, www.cyclamen.org

The North American Rock Garden Society, //nargs.org/genus/cyclamen