Growing cyclamen from seeds can be a rewarding and exciting experience. These beautiful flowers, which belong to the Primulaceae family, can be propagated easily from seeds. September is the ideal time to sow the seeds, depending on the type of cyclamen you are planting.
The first step in sowing cyclamen seeds is to soak them overnight in water. This softens the outer coating of the seeds, helping them to germinate more quickly. After soaking, the seeds can be sown in containers filled with a well-draining medium, such as a mixture of moss and perlite. It is important to lightly cover the seeds with this medium, as they need darkness to germinate.
After sowing, the containers should be placed in a warm spot with partial shade. It is important to keep the soil moist but not overly wet. Over-watering can cause the seeds and seedlings to rot. Furthermore, it is advisable to use a fungicide to prevent diseases such as fusarium wilt. The seedlings usually start to appear within a couple of weeks.
As the seedlings grow, they can be transplanted into separate containers to give them more space. It is important to provide them with a well-draining medium and regular irrigation. Fertilisers can be used, but care should be taken to avoid over-fertilisation, as this can harm the young plants. The cyclamen tubers can be planted outside in a sheltered spot once the threat of frost has passed.
Collecting cyclamen seeds can be a fascinating activity for plant enthusiasts. The seeds can be stored for several years in a cool, dry place until they are ready for sowing. There are many different species and varieties of cyclamen, each with its own unique characteristics and growth requirements. For more information on growing cyclamen from seeds, refer to the Cyclamen Society’s factsheet.
How to sow cyclamen seeds: a step-by-step guide from the Wiltshire University:
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- Soak the seeds overnight in water to help with germination.
- Fill containers with a well-draining medium, such as a mix of moss and perlite.
- Lightly cover the seeds with the medium and keep in a warm, partially shaded spot.
- Regularly water the seeds, keeping the soil moist but not overly wet.
- After a couple of weeks, the seedlings will start to appear. Transplant them into separate containers as they grow.
By following this method, you can enjoy the beauty of cyclamen flowers in your garden or home. So go ahead, start sowing cyclamen seeds and learn about this alternative method of propagation.
Source: Wiltshire University (https://www.wiltshireuniversity.com/gardening-tips/sowing-cyclamen-seeds)
Culture factsheet
Introduction: Cyclamen seeds can be sown indoors or outdoors depending on the type of cyclamen and the climate. This culture factsheet provides information on the method of propagation, planting, and the initial growth period of cyclamen seeds.
Method of propagation:
Start by soaking the seed-coats in warm, soapy water for 24 hours. This helps to soften the seed-coats and improve germination. After soaking, drain the water and place the seeds in a plastic bag or container with moss or other starting materials. Keep the seeds in a dark place where the temperature is 15-20°C (59-68°F) for a period of 5-6 weeks. This period of darkness helps to break the dormancy of the seeds.
Planting:
After the initial dark period, the seeds can be planted in pots or in the ground. Make sure the soil has good drainage and is well-fertilized. Place the seeds on the soil surface and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Growth:
Cyclamen seeds will usually germinate within 2-3 weeks after planting. The seedlings should be grown in a warm, partially shaded area. Keep the seedlings watered regularly and provide some protection from extreme weather conditions. Cyclamen tubers can be grown indoors or outdoors depending on their hardiness. If grown outdoors, cover the tubers with a layer of fleece or plastic during the winter months to protect them from frost.
Summary:
Cyclamen seeds can be sown indoors or outdoors depending on the type and climate. Soak the seed-coats beforehand to improve germination. After the initial dark period, plant the seeds in well-fertilized soil with good drainage. Provide regular watering and some protection if grown outdoors. Cyclamen tubers can be grown indoors or outdoors depending on their hardiness.
For more information, refer to the society’s guidelines on cyclamen cultivation.
Summary
In order to successfully sow cyclamen seeds, it is important to thoroughly collect and prepare the materials needed. Sowing cyclamen seeds can be done in September, either indoors or outside, depending on the hardiness of the type of cyclamen being grown. Many caution must be taken when handling the seed-coats, as they inhibit germination. The seeds should be soaked in water until they have swelled to roughly twice their initial size. Starting the seeds in a glasshouse or dedicated flower frame with good drainage and irrigation is recommended. The seeds can then be sown in a seed tray or individual pots filled with a mixture of loam, sand, and leaf mould. The seedlings will need a dark period of about 2 weeks to germinate. After this period, they can be brought into the light. It is important to monitor the moisture levels of the growing medium, as well as provide proper ventilation, to avoid damping-off. The cyclamen seedlings can be potted on when they have grown large enough to handle, and they can be planted in the ground in late spring or left in their pots for a year before planting. Overall, sowing cyclamen seeds requires careful attention to detail and patience, but it is a rewarding process that can result in beautiful cyclamen flowers.
Introduction
Sowing cyclamen seeds is an exciting and rewarding experience for any gardener. While cyclamen tubers are readily available at garden centers and nurseries, sowing seeds allows you to grow a wider variety of cyclamen varieties, including the popular F1 hybrids. However, caution should be exercised, as sowing cyclamen seeds can be a bit more challenging compared to tubers. In this article, you will learn about the materials needed and the step-by-step method for sowing cyclamen seeds and growing them into beautiful flowering plants.
Choosing the Right Seeds
Before you start sowing cyclamen seeds, it’s important to choose the right seeds. Cyclamen seeds can vary in size, color, and germination requirements, so it’s essential to do some research beforehand. Depending on the variety, some cyclamen seeds may need a period of cold stratification or require partial sowing on the surface of the growing medium.
Preparing the Growing Medium
Preparing a suitable growing medium is crucial for the successful germination of cyclamen seeds. A well-draining soilless mix is ideal for cyclamen seeds, as it ensures proper root development and minimizes the risk of waterlogged conditions. Many growers prefer a dedicated seed-starting mix or a mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite.
Proper sterilization of the growing medium is also important to prevent diseases and pathogen contamination. It can be done by lightly dampening the mixture and placing it in an oven at 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82 degrees Celsius) for around 30 minutes. Allow it to cool thoroughly before using it for sowing the seeds.
Another method to ensure optimal drainage is to add materials like horticultural grit or sand to the growing medium. This improves the soil structure and drainage, preventing waterlogged conditions that can lead to rotting of the seeds or seedlings.
When to sow
Knowing when to sow cyclamen seeds is crucial for successful growth. According to the Royal Horticultural Society’s factsheet on sowing cyclamen seeds, the ideal period for sowing is from September to April, with the best time being in early autumn. The choice of when to sow depends on the type of cyclamen, as there are different species and varieties.
For species such as Cyclamen hederifolium and Cyclamen coum, it is recommended to sow the seeds in containers outdoors. These species prefer a period of chilling before germination occurs, and this is best achieved by sowing the seeds outside and leaving them through the winter. The containers should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. To protect the seeds from birds or other pests, cover the containers with a thin layer of plastic or mesh. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be moved to a more suitable location for further cultivation.
On the other hand, species such as Cyclamen persicum or “florist’s cyclamen” can be sown indoors. These species do not require a chilling period and can be sown whenever desired. The best method for sowing is to lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or moss, then water lightly from the bottom. Placing the pots in a propagator or covering them with plastic can help to create a moist environment. Seeds will typically germinate in two to five weeks.
In summary, the timing for sowing cyclamen seeds varies depending on the species. For species like C. hederifolium and C. coum, it is best to sow them in containers outdoors during the autumn months. For species like C. persicum, they can be sown indoors at any time of the year. Regardless of the species, providing good drainage, the right level of moisture, and proper care will contribute to successful germination and growth.
For more information on the cultivation and growing of cyclamen seeds, please refer to the source below:
Source:
Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) factsheet: “Sowing Cyclamen Seeds”
Culture plan LATINIA® F1
When it comes to sowing cyclamen seeds, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. The Latinia® F1 variety is an ideal type of cyclamen for gardening, and here are some tips on how to successfully grow them:
- Starting with the seeds, it is best to collect them from mature plants that are at least 2 years old. The seeds should be carefully collected from the seedpods, making sure not to damage them.
- Before planting, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water for about 24 hours. This helps to soften the seed coat and improve the chances of germination.
- For planting, use a well-draining soil mixture. Fill small containers or seed trays with the soil, and place the seeds on top of the soil. It is important to only lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, as they need light to germinate.
- If you are starting the seeds indoors, make sure to keep them in a warm location with a temperature of around 68°F (20°C). You can use a plastic bag or a glasshouse to create a mini greenhouse effect and provide the necessary warmth and humidity.
- Germination generally takes around 2 weeks, but it can vary depending on the conditions. Keep an eye on the soil moisture, making sure it doesn’t dry out. If necessary, mist the soil lightly with water.
- To prevent the growth of fungi, such as Fusarium, it is important to practice good hygiene. Clean all tools and containers before use, and avoid over-watering the plants. If any signs of mould or disease are noticed, take appropriate action to control it.
- Once the seedlings have grown a few true leaves, they can be potted up into larger containers or directly planted into the ground. Choose a site with partial shade and well-draining soil.
- Cyclamen plants generally prefer a cooler environment, so it is important to avoid placing them in direct sunlight or in excessively warm locations.
- Regularly monitor the moisture levels of the soil and water the plants accordingly. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it is important to strike a balance.
Following these guidelines can help ensure successful cultivation of LATINIA® F1 cyclamen plants. Enjoy gardening and the beauty they will bring to your outdoor or indoor space!
