From my perspective as a cyclamen plant, dormancy is not an illness but a vital, natural rest period. It is my response to the changing seasons in my native Mediterranean habitat, where summers are hot and dry. As the days grow longer and light intensifies after my blooming period, I begin to conserve my energy. You will notice my flowers fading and no new buds forming. This is my first signal that I am preparing for my annual slumber. My energy is retreating from my showy blossoms and focusing inward, to my most critical part: the tuber buried in the soil.
The most obvious sign of my deep dormancy is the yellowing and withering of my beautiful, heart-shaped leaves. Do not be alarmed; this is a deliberate process. I am actively reabsorbing valuable nutrients and moisture from my foliage back into my tuber. This stored energy is what will fuel my spectacular return next season. The leaves will gradually yellow, wilt, and eventually die back completely. It may look as though I am dying, but I am simply reducing my above-ground presence to survive the challenging period ahead. My entire being is focused on the dormant life within the tuber.
Your care during this phase is crucial but counterintuitive. Once my leaves have yellowed, you can gently remove them by giving them a soft tug. Do not cut them, as this can leave a wound open to rot. The most important change you must make is to drastically reduce watering. My tuber needs to rest in almost completely dry soil to prevent it from rotting. Place my pot in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated location, such as a basement or a cool garage. I do not need light while I am dormant. Please, resist the urge to water me. An occasional tiny sprinkle to just prevent the tuber from shriveling into a husk is all that is needed, but true drought is far safer than any moisture.
I will rest for two to three months. My reawakening is triggered by the cooler temperatures of late summer or early fall. You will know I am ready when you see tiny new growth buds emerging from the top of my tuber. This is your cue to bring me back into the light. Begin by thoroughly soaking my soil and allowing all excess water to drain away. Return me to a bright, cool spot indoors, away from direct hot sun. As my new leaves begin to unfurl, you can resume a regular watering routine from below, and soon, I will reward your patience with a new set of flower stalks, ready to begin my cycle of growth all over again.
