Plant Care for Begonia


Overview

This is a breakdown of how to care for your Trailing begonias. They thrive in environments that mimic their native tropical and subtropical habitats. They prefer filtered light,moderate humidity, and consistent watering to prevent extremes. These begonias are popular for hanging baskets and containers, where their trailing growth habit can be showcased.


Plant Care of Trailing Begonias

1. Best Light for Begonias 

Begonias do best in indirect light

  • Conditions: Bright, indirect light is best. They thrive in dappled sunlight or a few hours of morning sun followed by shade.
  • Avoid: Direct afternoon sun, this can scorch their leaves.
  • Indoor Placement: Near an east- or north-facing window, or slightly back from a west- or south-facing one with sheer curtains.

2. What Temperature Begonias Prefer

Begonias enjoy the warmth but are not heat tolerant

  • Optimal Range: 60–75°F (16–24°C). 
  • Avoid: Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or drafts, as they are sensitive to cold.


3. How much to Water Begonias

Be careful of overwatering

  • When to water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. They prefer evenly moist soil but are susceptible to overwatering.


4. Humidity Level for Begonias

Begonias will thrive in humidity  

  • Preferred Level: 50–60% humidity. They appreciate higher humidity but can adapt to standard household levels if not overly dry.
  • Tips to Boost Humidity:
    • Use a pebble tray filled with water beneath the plant (without submerging the pot).
    • Group with other plants or use a small humidifier.


5. Soil Type for Begonias

An Aroid Soil will be perfect for your Begonia

  • Type: Well-draining, aerated soil with organic matter. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss works well. Grow Queen has the perfect Craft Aroid Soil Mix. 
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).


6. When to Fertilize Begonias 

Once a month for optimal growth.

  • Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
  • Type: Grow Queen All Purpose Organic Fertilizer is a one stop shop for your begonia. It avoids burn roots and continues to fertilizer at each watering with the active microbes. 


7. Pruning and Grooming Begonias 

Prune away! This will make your Begonia lush and give you propagations.

  • Pruning: Regularly trim leggy or dead stems to encourage bushier growth.
  • Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering and maintain tidiness.


8. When is it time to Repot Begonias

If the plant looks top heavy is a good way to tell.

  • Frequency: Every 1–2 years, or when roots become pot-bound.
  • Timing: Best done in spring.
  • Method: Use a slightly larger pot with fresh soil to encourage growth.


9. Propagation for Begonias

Begonias are one of the easiest to propagate

  • Method: Stem cuttings are the easiest way to propagate trailing begonias.
  • Steps:
    1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
    2. Remove lower leaves and place the cutting in water or moist soil.
    3. Keep in a warm, bright location until roots form (2–4 weeks).


With the right care, your trailing begonia will reward you with a stunning display of foliage and flowers, perfect for elevating any indoor or outdoor space.