Caring for hardy cyclamen

Cyclamen are a lovely plant for colour at this time of year. To get the best out of them, here are some tips to keep them healthy and thriving:

Location: Plant hardy cyclamen in a partially shaded area with some sunlight. They prefer cool conditions, so avoid full sun.

Soil: Use well-draining soil, ideally a mix of leaf mould compost, and grit. This will help prevent waterlogging, which can rot the tubers.

Watering: Water sparingly during the growing season (usually autumn and winter) and let the soil dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to rot.

Fertilising: Feed with a balanced, diluted fertiliser every few weeks during the growing season.

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep it away from the base of the plants to prevent rot.

Winter Care: Hardy cyclamen can tolerate frost, but in extreme conditions, a protective layer of mulch or leaves can help insulate them.

Propagation: You can propagate hardy cyclamen by seed, which can be sown in spring or early summer, but be patient as they take a while to germinate.

Dormancy: After flowering, the leaves may die back. This is normal; reduce watering until the next growing season when new leaves appear.

With a little attention, your hardy cyclamen will flourish and bring lovely blooms to your garden!