Cyclamen

Plant tubers in late summer or early autumn, just below the soil surface with the slightly concave side facing upwards — this is where the growing points sit. Choose a spot in dappled shade with well-drained soil rich in leaf mould. The base of deciduous trees and north-facing walls are ideal positions. Hardy cyclamen tolerate very dry conditions once established, thriving where little else will grow. Do not water during the summer dormancy period. Top-dress with leaf mould each autumn. Self-sown seedlings appear freely once plants are established — ants help distribute the sticky seeds. Avoid disturbing established tubers, as they resent being moved. Buy nursery-grown tubers from reputable suppliers rather than wild-collected stock.

No pruning needed. Remove faded flowers only if you want to prevent self-seeding. Leaves die back naturally by late spring.