Cyclamen plants, admired for their distinctive flowers and attractive foliage, bring vibrant color to indoor spaces and gardens. Like many flowering plants, cyclamen naturally produce seeds within specialized structures known as seed pods.
Identifying Cyclamen Seed Pods
Cyclamen seed pods typically form after flowering, developing at the base of spent blooms. The flower stems often coil downwards, drawing the developing pods closer to the soil.
Initially green and firm, mature pods change color to yellow, brown, or black, and their texture softens. A key indicator of maturity is when the pod feels slightly squishy or pliable. Some pods may also begin to show small cracks or start to split open, signifying that the seeds are ripening and almost ready for dispersal. Observing these visual cues helps gardeners determine the optimal time for collection.
Harvesting Cyclamen Seed Pods
Harvesting cyclamen seed pods at the correct stage is important for obtaining viable seeds. The ideal time for collection is when pods have fully matured, indicated by their color change to yellow, brown, or black, and a noticeable softening of their outer casing. Unripe pods will remain hard and firm to the touch.
To collect the pods, gently twist them from the plant or use small snips to cut the stem just below the pod. Care should be taken to avoid damaging nearby foliage. Since cyclamen seeds have a sticky, sugary coating that attracts ants, harvesting promptly once ripe helps prevent natural dispersal by insects. If immediate harvesting is not possible, tying a small paper bag or a piece of nylon pantyhose over the developing pod can help catch any seeds that drop.
Extracting and Storing Cyclamen Seeds
After harvesting, seeds need to be extracted from their pods. Ripe cyclamen pods often split open easily, allowing the small, sticky seeds to be gently squeezed out. These freshly extracted seeds are covered in a sticky substance that contains a germination-inhibiting hormone. This coating needs to be removed to encourage successful germination.
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water with a tiny drop of dish soap for about 24 hours. Then, thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove all residue. After cleaning, air-dry the seeds completely to prevent mold formation during storage. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dark, and dry location, preferably in breathable containers like paper envelopes, which allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Properly stored cyclamen seeds can remain viable for several years.
Propagating Cyclamen from Seeds
Propagating cyclamen from seeds begins with proper seed preparation to enhance germination rates. Soaking cleaned seeds in lukewarm water for at least 24 hours helps soften their outer coat, facilitating water absorption. Some growers also suggest soaking in a very dilute solution of bleach or liquid seaweed to reduce potential pathogens. After soaking, seeds can be lightly dried on a paper towel for easier handling.
For planting, use a well-draining, sterile seed starting mix, a blend of peat and perlite or equal parts seed compost and sharp grit. The soil pH should ideally be slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 5.8. Sow prepared seeds on the surface of the growing medium, or gently push them down and cover with a thin layer of compost or grit. Cyclamen seeds require complete darkness to germinate; cover planting trays with black plastic or place them in a dark environment.
Maintain consistent moisture in the growing medium, avoiding waterlogging. An optimal temperature range for germination is between 16°C and 20°C (60°F-68°F); temperatures above 20°C (68°F) can inhibit the process. Germination can be slow and erratic, typically taking anywhere from one to two months, though some seeds may sprout in as little as three weeks, while others can take up to a year. Fresher seeds generally germinate more quickly.
Once germination appears (usually a small root or radicle), immediately move trays to an area with bright, indirect light. Protect young seedlings from direct sunlight, which can be too intense. Continue to keep the soil consistently moist, watering from the base to prevent fungal issues. Maintain cool ambient temperatures, ideally around 10°C (50°F) at night and 21°C (70°F) during the day.
When seedlings have developed three to four true leaves and are large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into individual pots, mindful of their delicate root systems. Growing cyclamen from seed to a flowering plant is a patient endeavor, often taking two to three years.