How to propagate florist’s cyclamen

Why division works here

Not propagation from scratch so much as separation. Each piece already has its own roots and growing point, which is why the success rate is close to total.

Doing it

Unpot, find where the clumps separate naturally, and pull them apart by hand. Cut only what will not yield.

Where it goes wrong

Dividing too small is the usual error. A division needs enough roots to support its own leaves from day one.

The other routes

Slower or lower-yield for this species, but each has a case.

seed

The only method that produces genetically new plants, which is exactly why it is the wrong choice for a named cultivar. Seedlings do not come true to a cultivar. Grow a variegated plant from its own seed and you will most likely get the plain species.

tuber division

The storage organ can be cut so that each piece carries at least one growth point. Rot at the cut. This is the riskiest method here, and buying a second plant is often the better trade.

Before you cut

• The sap is not harmless. Florist’s cyclamen is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans (terpenoid saponins). Keep offcuts and rooting jars away from pets, and wash your hands. What that means for cats.
• Take more than you need. Losses are normal. Three cuttings in one jar costs nothing extra and changes the odds.
• Use a clean blade. Scissors crush the stem and crushed tissue rots. A craft knife wiped with alcohol is enough.
• Do not fertilise a cutting. There are no roots to take it up, and the salts sit in the medium and burn what does form.

Also for this species

Full care entry — light, watering interval, soil recipe and difficulty, with sources. Toxicity to cats and to dogs.