1/31/2000

Contacts:
Cindy Haynes, Horticulture Extension, (515) 294-4006, chaynes@iastate.edu
Elaine Edwards, Extension Communication Systems, (515) 294-5168, eedwards@iastate.edu

Yard and Garden Column for the Week Beginning Feb. 4

Cool Plants for Cool Homes

By Cindy Haynes
Extension horticulturist
Iowa State University Extension

As the temperature drops outside, temperatures indoors often dip as well. But just because you have drafty windows in your home doesn't mean you can't enjoy pretty posies this winter. Just like those individuals that enjoy the cold weather, there are a few flowering plants that prefer the cooler side of life as well. Three "cool" flowering plants that appear on florists' shelves this time of year are cyclamen, cineraria and primrose.

Cyclamen

Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) is a popular and wonderful houseplant during the winter. They have attractive marbled or mottled heart-shaped leaves that skirt bright pink, lavender, red or white flowers. They are available in three plant sizes; small (miniature), medium (intermediate) and large (standard) to suit almost any coffee or end table. The flowers themselves are unique as the petals curve backward, giving each blossom a butterfly or windswept appearance.

If given good care, the cyclamen will bloom for several weeks. Cool temperatures and a moist soil are the keys to cyclamen success. They prefer temperatures between 50 degrees and 60 degrees F with bright indirect light. Watering is a little tricky since they prefer moist soils while blooming, but do not tolerate wet soils. It is best to check the potting soil daily. If the soil surface is dry to the touch, then water thoroughly. If the soil is still moist, wait and check again the following day. Avoid watering the corm directly since it is susceptible to over watering and rot. Warm or room temperature water is best to prevent damage to the foliage.

In its native Mediterranean habitat, cyclamen grows in cool sites with annual moist and dry cycles. After blooming, the leaves yellow and the plant declines. At this time, gradually reduce the amount of water applied to simulate the dry season and initiate dormancy. The dormancy or rest period should last approximately 6 to 8 weeks during late spring or early summer. Plants are normally kept in a cool, shaded location during the dormant phase and during the summer. By mid- to late summer, resume watering gradually as the leaves reappear. Keep the soil moist but not wet and fertilize periodically. In fall, plants can be returned to that drafty window for best blooms.

Cineraria

Cineraria (Senecio x hybridus) is another beautiful flowering plant that likes to stay cool. Masses of daisy-like flowers put on a spectacular show in late winter and early spring. Flower colors are vibrant red, pink, white, lavender, and true blue. Some varieties have flowers with contrasting white centers. Slightly lobed, rough, green leaves provide a nice contrast to the cheery blossoms.

Cinerarias prefer night temperatures between 45 degrees and 50 degrees F and day temperatures between 55 degrees and 65 degrees F. Consistent soil moisture and bright indirect light are required for a long bloom display. Like the cyclamen, check the potting soil daily to determine if the plant needs water. Cinerarias wilt rapidly in response to dry soils. They are unforgiving of drought conditions and often die quickly after wilting. While cinerarias will bloom for several weeks indoors if properly maintained, they are difficult to force into bloom again. Therefore, once they have finished flowering, plants are normally discarded.

Primrose

Several species and colors of primrose (Primula) brighten store shelves in late winter or early spring. Some plants are small and mounded with large flowers resting directly on top of the foliage. Others have smaller flowers that encircle the stems several inches above the leaves. Flowers are available in a wide range of primary and pastel colors. Some flowers have contrasting centers or "eyes." The leaves are wavy, medium to light green and frame the flowers well.

Primroses bloom for several weeks indoors at temperatures between 45 degrees to 60 degrees F. Well-drained soils with consistent moisture that are best. While primroses are very attractive while in bloom, plants decline quickly after blooming and are normally discarded. In some areas of the country, primroses are hardy outdoors. However, they are do not survive outdoors in Iowa.

So while you are watching the snow fall and listening to the wind howl this winter, you can enjoy the bright, cheery blossoms of the cyclamen, cineraria and primrose as they warm your heart. Unlike many tropical plants, these cool plants like that drafty window.

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