Container Grown Cyclamen Outdoors: How to Grow Them Successfully
Are you looking for a way to brighten up your outdoor space during the cooler months? Look no further than container grown cyclamen! These beautiful plants are perfect for adding some color and cheer to your porch, patio, or garden. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully grow cyclamen in containers outdoors.
Choosing Containers and Soil
The first step to growing container-grown cyclamen outdoors is choosing the right container and soil. Cyclamen prefer well-draining soil, so make sure to choose a pot with drainage holes. Terra cotta pots are a great choice because they allow for good air flow to the roots.
When it comes to soil, cyclamen prefer a slightly acidic mix that is rich in organic matter. You can use a pre-made potting mix, but be sure to add some perlite or sand to improve drainage. Alternatively, you can create your own mix using equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Planting Cyclamen
Once you have your container and soil ready, it's time to plant your cyclamen. Start by filling the container about two-thirds full with your potting mix. Then, place your cyclamen tuber on top of the soil, making sure to position it so that the nose (where the leaves will emerge) is facing up. Cover the tuber with more soil until it is just below the surface.
Water your cyclamen thoroughly after planting, making sure to moisten the soil all the way to the bottom of the pot. Cyclamen prefer to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged, so be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Light and Temperature Requirements
Cyclamen prefer cool temperatures and indirect light. They do best when grown in a spot that receives bright, filtered light for a few hours each day. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and flowers.
During the day, cyclamen prefer temperatures between 60-68°F (15-20°C). At night, they prefer temperatures around 50°F (10°C). If you live in an area with very hot summers, you may need to move your cyclamen to a cooler spot or bring them indoors where temperatures are more comfortable.
Maintenance and Care
Cyclamen require minimal maintenance once they are planted. Make sure to keep the soil evenly moist and fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms, but be careful not to damage the stems or leaves.
If your cyclamen becomes overcrowded or stops flowering, you may need to divide the tubers and repot them in fresh soil. This is usually done in late summer or early fall, before the plant starts to go dormant.
Pest and Disease Control
Cyclamen can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, and root rot. To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the soil evenly moist and avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of pest infestation, such as webbing or sticky residue on the leaves, treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. If your plant develops root rot, it may be necessary to repot in fresh soil and trim away any damaged roots.
Container grown cyclamen are a beautiful and easy way to add some color to your outdoor space during the cooler months. By following these simple tips for choosing containers and soil, planting, light and temperature requirements, maintenance and care, and pest and disease control, you can grow cyclamen successfully in containers outdoors. Happy gardening!
Cyclamen, Container Gardening, Outdoor Plants, Gardening Tips
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