How to Look After Begonias: Essential Care Guide

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Begonia Types And Care Requirements

Begonias are a diverse group of plants that can be categorized into four main types: tuberous begonias, fibrous-rooted begonias, hardy begonias, and foliage begonias. Each type has its own unique care requirements.

• Tuberous begonias are known for their showy, often double flowers and are the most popular type for containers and hanging baskets. They require a well-draining, peat-free, multi-purpose compost. Tuberous begonias thrive in dappled sunshine to partial shade. In summer, it’s important to feed pot-grown tuberous begonias weekly with tomato feed or slow-release fertilizer pellets for optimum growth. In September, stop feeding tuberous begonias to encourage slower growth before the winter season. After the first frost, lift tuberous begonias, remove the excess compost from each tuber, and store them in a dark, cool, frost-free place until March.

• Fibrous-rooted begonias are more compact and have smaller flowers than tuberous begonias. They can be grown in containers or planted directly in the garden. Fibrous-rooted begonias also need regular feeding in summer and can be composted after flowering.

• Hardy begonias are more tolerant of cool temperatures and can withstand some frost. They prefer well-drained soil and thrive in partial shade. Hardy begonias should be fertilized sparingly with diluted fertilizer mixed with compost or peat moss.

• Lastly, foliage begonias are primarily known for their striking patterns and colors in their leaves rather than their flowers. To enhance the beauty of the foliage, it is recommended to remove the flowers. Foliage begonias prefer dappled shade and well-drained soil.

• • Tuberous begonias:
• Showy, often double flowers
• Suitable for containers and hanging baskets
• Require well-draining, peat-free, multi-purpose compost
• Thrive in dappled sunshine to partial shade
• Feed weekly with tomato feed or slow-release fertilizer pellets in summer
• Stop feeding in September to encourage slower growth before winter

• Lift, remove excess compost, and store tuberous begonias in a dark, cool, frost-free place after the first frost until March

• • Fibrous-rooted begonias:
• More compact with smaller flowers
• Can be grown in containers or directly in the garden
• Regular feeding in summer

• Can be composted after flowering

• • Hardy begonias:
• Tolerant of cool temperatures and some frost
• Prefer well-drained soil and partial shade

• Fertilize sparingly with diluted fertilizer mixed with compost or peat moss

• • Foliage begonias:
• Known for striking patterns and colors in leaves
• Remove flowers to enhance foliage beauty
• Prefer dappled shade and well-drained soil

Growing Begonias: Soil, Sunlight, And Watering

When it comes to growing begonias, the right soil, sunlight, and watering conditions are crucial. Begonias prefer porous, rich soil that is slightly acidic. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Ensure the soil is well-drained and not constantly moist.

Begonias thrive in dappled shade or partial shade. They prefer indirect sunlight or shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Avoid exposing them to prolonged periods of direct sunlight as it can cause wilting or browning of the flowers.

Watering is a vital aspect of begonia care. It is important to water regularly, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done about once a week when the top half-inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, stem rot, or powdery mildew, which can harm the begonia plant. Aim to provide some humidity (just under 50%) as it is beneficial for begonias, but avoid excessive moisture.

• Use porous, rich soil
• Ensure good drainage
• Provide dappled shade or partial shade
• Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
• Water regularly, but not excessively
• Avoid waterlogging and overly moist conditions

Feeding Begonias: Frequency And Fertilizer Types

Feeding begonias with the right nutrients is essential for their growth and blooming. The frequency and type of fertilizer depend on the variety of begonia.

For rhizomatous begonias grown indoors, a basic water-soluble fertilizer can be used in the spring. Dilute the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it every two to four weeks.

Tuberous begonias require a 5-1-1 fertilizer applied twice a month during the blooming season. This balanced fertilizer helps promote healthy foliage growth and vibrant flowers.

Hardy begonias should be fertilized sparingly with diluted fertilizer mixed with compost or peat moss. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Storage And Maintenance Of Tubers

After the first frost, tuberous begonias need to be lifted from the ground or pots. Carefully remove any excess compost clinging to the tubers and store them in a dark, cool, frost-free place until March. This period of dormancy allows the tubers to rest and prepare for the next growing season. It is important to inspect the stored tubers regularly for any signs of disease or rot and remove any affected ones. Proper storage and maintenance of tubers are crucial for their long-term health and viability.

Propagation Methods For Begonias

Begonias can be propagated through various methods, including cuttings, dividing tubers, and growing from seeds.

Cuttings are the most common and easiest way to propagate begonias. Simply take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide indirect light until the cutting starts to develop roots.

Dividing tubers is another method used to propagate tuberous begonias. When lifting the tubers in the fall, carefully separate them and transplant them into individual pots. This allows each tuber to grow independently, resulting in more plants.

Growing begonias from seeds is a more time-consuming method as it requires patience and proper care. Sow the begonia seeds in a well-draining compost mix and cover them lightly with soil. Place the tray or pot in a warm and brightly lit area, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist. With time, the seeds will germinate, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots.

• Cuttings: take a healthy stem cutting, remove lower leaves, place in potting mix
• Dividing tubers: separate tubers in fall, transplant into individual pots
• Growing from seeds: sow in compost mix, cover lightly with soil, keep moist and warm until germination.

Common Issues With Begonias: Diseases And Pests

Like any other plant, begonias are susceptible to certain diseases and pests. One common disease is powdery mildew, which particularly affects yellow-flowering begonias starting in May. To prevent diseases, ensure proper spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation. Ventilate greenhouses and provide adequate light to prevent the development of powdery mildew.

Vine weevil can be a problem with potted begonias, as the larvae feed on the roots, leading to weakened plants. Regularly inspect the container plants for signs of vine weevil and treat them accordingly.

Regular deadheading of spent flowers is necessary to maintain the overall health and appearance of the begonia plant. Deadheading removes faded blooms and prevents seed production, allowing the plant to divert its energy towards new growth and blooming.

caring for begonias involves understanding the specific requirements of each type, providing the right soil, sunlight, and watering conditions, feeding them with suitable fertilizers, and taking preventive measures against common issues. With proper care, begonias can thrive and reward you with their beautiful flowers and foliage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you care for potted begonias?

To care for potted begonias, it is important to maintain even moisture in the soil, ensuring it doesn’t completely dry out between waterings. It is recommended to reduce watering in the winter months, and for tuberous begonias, watering should cease in the fall. Overly wet or waterlogged soil should always be avoided. During periods of full growth, applying a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength during alternate waterings will help provide the necessary nutrients for healthy begonias.

Do begonias like sunlight or shade?

Begonias thrive in light shade or part sun conditions, making them adaptable to various lighting levels. While they can tolerate relatively deeper shade, specific varieties like Rex begonias and tuberous Non-Stops prefer a shadier environment. This preference for light shade or part sun indicates that begonias are not particularly fond of direct and intense sunlight but still require some amount of filtered light to flourish.

How often do you water begonias?

To ensure the optimal growth of begonias, it is crucial to maintain a balance of moisture in the soil. Ideally, begonias should be watered every two to four days, depending on environmental conditions. During periods of intense heat and dryness, more frequent watering may be required to prevent the soil from becoming parched. Conversely, when the air cools down and the soil retains more moisture, watering can be reduced in frequency. Monitoring the moisture level and adjusting the watering schedule accordingly will help to create an optimal environment for the flourishing of begonias.

Do begonias like direct sunlight?

Begonias, being adaptable plants, have a tolerance for various light conditions, ranging from full sun to shade. However, it is essential to consider the climate and foliage variation within the begonia species. In colder climates, begonias can withstand more sunlight. On the other hand, in warmer regions, it is crucial to protect them from the intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scald, especially for varieties with green leaves. In general, begonias with darker foliage are better able to handle higher levels of sunlight compared to their green-leaf counterparts.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4