6 - Cyclamen persicum

Question 1

What must you do to a cyclamen seed before you sow it?

Answer 1

Soak it for 12 hours to soften the testa.

Question 2

How do you sow Cyclamen persicum seeds?

Answer 2

• In individual modules or seed trays
• Using a peat based sowing media (e.g. John Innes seed compost)
• Keep them moist but not wet
• Keep them at a 21-24C.

Question 3

What happens once the seeds germinate?

Answer 3

• A corm will begin to form
• Plants should be potted on using John Innes No.1, taking care not to bury the corm.

Question 4

What is the ideal growing conditions of Cyclamen persicum?

Answer 4

• 15-18C
• Well ventilated
• Kept moist by capillary irrigation
• Spaced so foliage is not touching.

Question 5

What are the feeding requirements of Cyclamen persicum?

Answer 5

• Feed with a balanced John Innes liquid feed as required, with a higher level of potassium at the flowering stage.

Question 6

Explain the potting on of Cyclamen persicum.

Answer 6

• Plants can be potted into 14cm half pots using John Innes No.3 compost, as required.

Question 7

Name two pests that affect Cyclamen persicum and their symptoms.

Answer 7

Vine weevil Rounded larvae have brown heads and eat the roots of the plant. In severe infestations all roots are eaten and the plant collapses. The plant will also wilt in warm conditions.

Sciarid fly The larvae are small, long and almost transparent. Tunnel within the root system and eat the roots until they are shredded. Adult flies can be seen on the surface of the growing media.