From my perspective as a cyclamen plant, the fading of my vibrant blooms is not an end, but a crucial transition. I have expended a tremendous amount of energy to produce those flowers for you. Now, I am entering my natural period of dormancy, a summer rest that is vital for my long-term health and my ability to rebloom next season. This is not a sign of dying; it is a necessary phase of my life cycle where I redirect energy from flowering to my most important asset: my tuber.
As my flowers and leaves begin to yellow and wither, please understand this is my signal. I am deliberately drawing nutrients back into my tuber for storage. Your role is to help me by gradually reducing your watering. Do not abruptly stop, as this can shock my system. Simply water less and less frequently as my foliage dies back. Cease fertilizing me entirely. I have no need for extra nutrients now, and they would only sit in the soil and potentially harm my roots.
Once my leaves have completely yellowed and you have gently removed them, I require a specific environment for my dormancy. I need a period of dryness and cooler temperatures. Please move my pot to a cool, dark place such as a basement or a garage where temperatures ideally stay between 50-65°F (10-18°C). Do not water me during this time. My tuber is resting, and moisture will only encourage rot, threatening my very existence. Let me sleep undisturbed for two to three months.
You will know I am ready to awaken when you see tiny new growth buds emerging from the top of my tuber. This typically happens in late summer or early autumn. When you see this sign, it is time to gently bring me back to life. Repot me in fresh, well-draining potting mix, ensuring my tuber sits slightly above the soil line. Begin watering me carefully, initially moistening the soil around the edges of the pot to avoid rot. Place me in a cool, bright location with indirect light.
As my new leaves begin to unfurl and grow, you can resume a regular watering routine. Water me from below by placing my pot in a saucer of water for about 15 minutes, allowing me to drink what I need. This keeps my tuber crown dry and prevents rot. Once I have established a good set of leaves, you can begin feeding me with a half-strength, high-potassium fertilizer every few weeks to support the development of a new, spectacular set of flower buds. With this care, I will reward you with another season of beautiful blooms.
