Welcome to our Begonia Care page, where you’ll find everything you need to grow and maintain beautiful, thriving begonias. Known for their stunning foliage and vibrant blooms, begonias are perfect for both beginner gardeners and seasoned plant enthusiasts. Whether you’re caring for a classic wax begonia, a trailing rieger begonia, or a striking angel wing variety, the right care will ensure your begonias remain healthy and beautiful.
At Cerbo’s, we take pride in offering high-quality begonias and expert advice to help you succeed. With the right balance of light, water, and soil, these versatile plants will thrive with minimal effort. Explore our care tips and recommendations to keep your begonias flourishing year-round!
General Begonia Care
- Light – Begonias prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so keep them in a location where they can receive filtered light. Some varieties, like rex begonias, may tolerate a bit lower light but still need bright, indirect exposure.
- Watering – Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as begonias are sensitive to root rot.
- Humidity – Begonias thrive in moderate to high humidity. Aim for humidity levels of 50% or higher. If your home is dry, consider misting the leaves, placing a humidity tray underneath, or using a humidifier to provide extra moisture.
- Temperature – Prefers warm temperatures between 60–75°F (16–24°C). Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and keep begonias away from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
- Soil – Use a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix. A peat-based mix with added perlite or vermiculite works well to ensure proper drainage and aeration for the roots.
- Fertilizing – Feed begonias with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
- Pruning – Regularly remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance. Some varieties may benefit from occasional pinching back to encourage bushier growth.
- Repotting – Repot begonias every 1–2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the current one with good drainage.
- Propagation – Begonias can be propagated through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or by division. For leaf cuttings, place them in water or a moist potting mix to encourage root development.
- Pests & Problems – Watch out for common pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If you notice pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil isn’t constantly soggy.