You can definitely grow cyclamen from seed! It’s a rewarding process that allows you to experience the entire life cycle of this beautiful plant. However, I must warn you that it requires a bit of patience, as it can take quite some time before you see the gorgeous blooms.
To start, you’ll need to obtain seeds of tender large-flowered cyclamen varieties. These seeds are specifically bred for indoor cultivation and come in a wide array of colors, allowing you to create a stunning display in your home. You can usually find these seeds at nurseries or online stores specializing in seeds.
Once you have your seeds, it’s time to get started. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sow cyclamen seeds:
1. Prepare the soil: Cyclamen seeds require a well-draining soil mix. You can create your own mix by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and sand. This will ensure good aeration and prevent the seeds from rotting.
2. Sow the seeds: Fill small pots or seed trays with the prepared soil mix. Moisten the soil slightly before sowing the seeds. Scatter the seeds evenly on the surface of the soil, and then lightly press them into the soil using your finger or the back of a spoon. Avoid burying the seeds too deeply, as they need light to germinate.
3. Cover and label: Once the seeds are sown, cover the pots or trays with a clear plastic bag or a propagator lid. This will create a humid environment that encourages germination. Don’t forget to label your pots or trays so that you know which variety you’re growing.
4. Provide the right conditions: Cyclamen seeds require warmth and moisture to germinate. Place the pots or trays in a warm location with indirect light, such as a windowsill. Maintain a temperature of around 65-70°F (18-21°C) for optimal germination. Check the soil regularly and mist it with water if it starts to dry out.
5. Be patient: Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so be prepared for a wait. Don’t be discouraged if some seeds take longer to sprout than others. Cyclamen seeds have different germination rates, and some may need more time to break dormancy.
6. Transplanting and care: Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, you can carefully transplant them into individual pots. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the top of the corm (the bulb-like structure) is level with the soil surface. Keep the plants in a cool location with bright, indirect light. Water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, as cyclamen are prone to rotting.
7. Continued care: As the cyclamen plants grow, they will develop a tuber that stores energy for future growth. Keep the plants in a cool spot with a temperature range of 50-65°F (10-18°C). Provide bright, indirect light and avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Water the plants from the base, using a saucer or tray filled with water. This allows the roots to take up water without wetting the corm, which can lead to rot.
8. Blooming: With proper care, your cyclamen plants should start blooming in about a year or more from sowing. The large, colorful flowers will bring joy and beauty to your indoor space during the winter months when many other plants are dormant.
Growing cyclamen from seed can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It allows you to witness the entire life cycle of these lovely plants, from seed to bloom. So, if you’re up for the challenge and have a bit of patience, give it a try!
