Garden Q&A: I planted cyclamen in pots. Will they bloom every year?
Cyclamen Persicum
I have planted cyclamen in my pots this year. They look lovely but will they come on each year?
With some time and effort, yes, but if left to their own devices probably not. The cyclamens which are sold in garden centres throughout the country during December are really regarded as winter bedding plants to brighten up the garden for one winter season.
However, if you keep deadheading the plants and remove any dead or dying leaves you will strengthen the plants and extend their flowering period.
They like to be planted slightly proud of the soil surface and they need a very well-drained soil in which to thrive.
These cyclamen are cultivars of the Persian Cyclamen, C. persicum and they are perennial in their native habitats of southeast Europe, Africa and Asia where they grow mostly on open hillsides and mountains.
This will tell you that they need a good open position with lots of sunshine and well-drained soil — so provide them with as much of both as you can to give them the best chance of coming on year after year.
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