Troubleshooting
Spring Cyclamen problems — and how to fix them
Spring Cyclamen (Cyclamen coum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Tuber rot
From deep planting or summer watering during dormancy. Set tubers shallow and keep them dry while resting.
Botrytis (grey mould)
Grey fuzzy mould on foliage in cold, damp, still air. Remove spent flowers and dead leaves and improve ventilation.
Vine weevil
Grubs eat into the tuber, particularly in pots. Check roots at repotting and apply nematode drenches as control.
Sparse or no flowering
Too deep, too shaded, or dormancy disturbed by summer moisture. Plant shallowly and enforce a dry summer rest.
Prevent spring cyclamen problems before they start
Most spring cyclamen issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for spring cyclamen in general rather than its problems? Read the full spring cyclamen care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Spring Cyclamen problems — FAQ
Why is my spring cyclamen tuber rot?
From deep planting or summer watering during dormancy. Set tubers shallow and keep them dry while resting.
Why is my spring cyclamen botrytis (grey mould)?
Grey fuzzy mould on foliage in cold, damp, still air. Remove spent flowers and dead leaves and improve ventilation.
Why is my spring cyclamen vine weevil?
Grubs eat into the tuber, particularly in pots. Check roots at repotting and apply nematode drenches as control.
Why is my spring cyclamen sparse or no flowering?
Too deep, too shaded, or dormancy disturbed by summer moisture. Plant shallowly and enforce a dry summer rest.