Cyclamen are charming, low-growing plants prized for their delicate, upswept flowers and attractive marbled foliage, bringing color to the garden during cooler months. Although often called bulbs, cyclamen grow from a specialized underground storage structure called a tuber. Successful growth hinges on planting the tuber at the correct time, as these plants have distinct periods of active growth and summer dormancy. Knowing the optimal planting time is the first step toward enjoying its unique display of winter or autumn blooms.
Differentiating Cyclamen Types for Timing
Determining the ideal planting time relies on knowing the cyclamen species, as the genus is divided into two groups. The most widely available type is the Florist’s Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum), a tender variety primarily grown indoors as a temporary houseplant. Planting a dry tuber of this type is uncommon, as the plant is typically purchased already potted and actively growing.
Hardy cyclamen varieties, in contrast, are meant for the outdoor garden and are the primary focus for tuber planting. These species tolerate colder temperatures and reliably return year after year, often naturalizing into carpets of color. The planting window for hardy types coincides with the end of their summer dormancy, just before the active growth cycle begins. Gardeners should focus on hardy species like the autumn-flowering C. hederifolium or the winter-flowering C. coum.
Optimal Planting Windows for Hardy Varieties
The best time to plant hardy cyclamen tubers is during their dormant phase, allowing them to establish a robust root system before producing foliage and flowers. This period spans from late summer through early autumn, which is when dry tubers are typically sold. Planting at this time ensures the tuber is ready to respond to the cooler temperatures and increased moisture of the approaching growing season.
For Cyclamen hederifolium, often called the Ivy-leaved Cyclamen, the optimal planting time is late August through September. This species flowers in the autumn, often producing blooms before its striking ivy-shaped leaves appear. Planting the dormant tuber allows the roots to anchor themselves just as cooler weather triggers the plant’s emergence from summer rest.
The other common hardy species, Cyclamen coum, or the Winter Cyclamen, should also be planted during the late summer to early autumn window. Although C. coum flowers in winter or early spring, planting it in September or October gives the tuber several weeks to develop its root structure underground. This establishment phase ensures the plant has the energy reserves needed to produce its leaves and flowers during the cold months, maximizing the chance of successful rooting before the first significant frosts arrive.
Immediate Establishment and Care
Once the planting time is right, proper technique is necessary for the tuber to thrive in its new location. Cyclamen tubers are best planted very shallowly, often with the top of the tuber just below the soil surface or covered by only one to two inches of soil. Planting too deeply can prevent the tuber from flowering successfully in its first year.
The tuber is generally flat or slightly concave, and it must be oriented correctly with the concave or flattest side facing up, as this is where the growth buds are located. Good drainage is required, so the planting site should feature free-draining soil, ideally amended with organic matter like well-rotted leaf mold. Water the newly planted tubers gently to settle the soil, but avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can cause the tuber to rot. This initial watering encourages the tuber to break dormancy and begin establishing roots.