Begonia care and facts

Scientific division

Begonia belongs to the Begoniaceae family and the genus includes over 2000 known species, making it one of the largest in the plant kingdom. There are also countless hybrids and improved varieties. They are often divided into three main groups: leaf begonias, which are grown for their decorative leaves, tuberous begonias, which bloom profusely with large, colorful flowers, and rex begonias, which are particularly popular for their unique leaves in shades of pink, silver, purple, and green. Some well-known species are Begonia rex , Begonia maculata with its spotted leaves, and Begonia semperflorens , which is often used as a summer flower.

Origin

Begonias are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, but most species come from Central and South America and Asia. In nature, they grow in moist forest environments, often in shady places close to the ground or on rocks where they are protected from strong sun. This origin explains their requirement for even moisture, high humidity and protection from direct sun in the home environment.

Begonia in the home

Begonias offer a fantastic variety. For those who love color and form, there are both species with spectacular leaves and varieties with flowers in almost every color. They are perfect for creating life and dynamics in the home, regardless of whether you want a classic flowering plant on the windowsill or a more dramatic leaf begonia as a decorative detail. Begonias are available in both easy-to-care varieties and more advanced species suitable for collectors, making them accessible to all levels of plant interest.

Location and light

Begonias prefer a bright but sheltered location. Direct sun, especially during the summer, can burn the leaves, while too dark a location will cause the plant to grow slowly and fail to flower. An east or west-facing window is often perfect. Leaf begonias such as Begonia rex often prefer an even more sheltered location and thrive well a little way into the room with lots of indirect light.

Temperature

Most begonias thrive best in temperatures between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. They are sensitive to cold and should not be placed where the temperature drops below 15 degrees Celsius. Drafts and cold windows during the winter can cause the leaves to turn yellow or the plant to stop growing.

Humidity

Begonias do best in relatively high humidity, preferably between 50 and 70 percent. If the air is too dry, the edges of the leaves can turn brown and flowering will be impaired. A good tip is to group the begonia with other plants or place it on a dish with Leca balls and water. The leaves should not be sprayed directly because many varieties are sensitive to water on the leaf surface and easily get spots. Instead, it is better to increase the humidity around the plant.

Watering

Watering is often the biggest challenge with begonias. They want even moisture but are sensitive to overwatering. The soil should never be soggy but not completely dry either. Let the top layer dry slightly before watering again. Tuberous begonias need less water during the winter dormancy period while foliar begonias want even moisture all year round. Use soft water and water directly into the soil, not over the leaves.

Fertilization

Begonias appreciate regular feeding during the growing season from spring to early autumn. A balanced flowering plant food every two weeks works well for flowering varieties. For leafy begonias, a green plant food that contains more nitrogen can be used. During the winter when growth is slower, fertilizing should be reduced or paused.

Transplantation

Begonias are replanted in the spring if they have outgrown their pot. Use an airy soil mixture that is rich but well-drained. A good mix is ​​potting soil mixed with peat and perlite. Rex begonias especially like airy soil because their roots are sensitive to standing water. Choose a pot that is not too large, otherwise the soil will easily become too wet.

Pest

Begonias can be attacked by aphids, thrips and spider mites. Mealybugs can also occur, especially on rex begonias. Prevent infestation by keeping the plant in good condition, avoiding too dry air and keeping the leaves clean. In the event of an infestation, you can treat with soapy water or biological pesticides. If the soil is kept too wet, fungal diseases can occur, which manifest as black spots or wilting leaves. Good drainage is therefore very important.

Proliferation

Begonias are fascinating because they can be propagated in several different ways. Stem cuttings are common and are taken by cutting a piece of a stem with at least one leaf and one node. The cutting can be placed in water or directly in moist soil until it develops roots. Leaf begonias can also be propagated by leaf cuttings. In this case, a large leaf is cut off, placed in moist soil and small incisions are made in the leaf veins. New plants develop from these incisions after a few weeks. Tuberous begonias can be divided during the dormant period by cutting the tuber into parts with at least one eye per part. The parts are then allowed to dry before planting in new soil. Propagation is a fun way to get more plants and to preserve unusual varieties.