Begonias are one of the most popular flowering plants due to their wide variety of colors and shapes. While they are relatively low-maintenance, they do require some care to keep them blooming. Here are some tips on how to keep your begonias looking their best.
Light
Begonias prefer bright, indirect light and will not bloom without it. Place your begonias in a spot that gets some direct sunlight each day, but not too much. Too much direct sunlight can cause them to wilt, and can even burn the foliage. Move them to a spot with more shade if they start to show signs of wilting.
Water
Begonias need to be watered regularly to keep them blooming. Water your begonias when the top inch or two of the soil is dry. Water until it drains out of the bottom of the pot, and then discard any excess water that has collected in the saucer. Be sure not to overwater your begonias, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing your begonias is important to keep them blooming and healthy. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. If you are growing begonias in a container, use a slow-release fertilizer. If you are growing begonias in the ground, use a liquid fertilizer.
Humidity
Begonias need high humidity to thrive. If the air in your home is too dry, use a humidifier or mist the leaves of your begonias with a spray bottle a few times a week. You can also group your begonias together with other plants to help increase the humidity.
Temperature
Begonias prefer average temperatures between 65-75F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50F or higher than 80F, but will not bloom in extreme heat or cold. If the temperature in your home is too extreme, you can use a fan or air conditioner to regulate the temperature.
Pruning
Pruning your begonias is important to keep them blooming and healthy. Prune off any dead or damaged leaves and stems to promote new growth. You can also trim back any leggy stems to promote bushier growth. Prune your begonias once a month during the growing season to keep them looking their best.
Repotting
Begonias should be repotted every year or two to keep them healthy. When repotting your begonias, use a larger pot with fresh soil. Be sure not to pack the soil too tightly, as this can cause root rot. Water your begonias after repotting to help settle the soil.
Pests
Pests can be a problem with begonias. Check your begonias regularly for signs of pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If you see any pests, use an insecticidal soap or another natural pest control remedy to get rid of them. Be sure to follow the directions on the product carefully.
Conclusion
With the right care, your begonias will be blooming all season long. Be sure to provide them with the right amount of light, water, and fertilizer, as well as the proper temperature and humidity. Prune them regularly, and repot them every year or two. Finally, keep an eye out for pests and take care of them as soon as you spot them.