Begonia

Begonia Care Tips

1. Watering
Begonias like their soil slightly moist but never soggy.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Avoid getting water on the leaves, especially for fuzzy-leaved varieties, to prevent mildew or rot.
Always use a pot with good drainage and allow excess water to escape.

2. Humidity
Begonias enjoy moderate to high humidity but good air circulation is equally important.
Aim for 50–60% humidity.
Use a pebble tray or humidifier if your home is dry, but avoid enclosing the plant in a stuffy environment.
Do not mist directly, especially on hairy-leaf varieties.

3. Temperature
Begonias prefer a warm, stable climate.
Ideal temperature range: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
Avoid temperatures below 55°F (13°C) and protect from drafts or sudden changes in temperature.
Extreme heat can also cause leaf drop or crisping edges.

4. Light
Begonias prefer bright, indirect light.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves, especially in Rex and Angel Wing varieties.
Too little light can result in leggy growth and dull leaf coloration.
Near an east or filtered south-facing window is usually ideal.

Extra Tips
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix—one designed for African violets or amended with perlite and peat works well.
Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer.
Prune dead or leggy growth regularly to encourage bushier, healthier plants.
Begonias dislike cold, wet soil—err on the side of slightly dry rather than overwatered.
Repot when root-bound, typically every 1–2 years, and choose pots only slightly larger than the current one.