Begonia: home care - important points (photo). Creating conditions for flowering begonias at home all year round

If you are a beginner florist, then begonia will be the right choice for your home green corner. This plant is not only beautiful, but also unpretentious. Everyone can learn how to care for it, and it, in turn, will endow with its sunny appearance and refreshing aroma.

To properly care for begonias, you need to familiarize yourself with the rules for planting, watering and finding her a cozy place in the house. If you take into account all the nuances, then the plant will delight you for about 4 years.

What conditions are needed for begonias

Indoor begonia grows in pots. They need to be located away from heating devices. Best of all, the plant feels in a corner specially designated for plants. The optimum air temperature for begonias is room temperature. If it is summer outside, then it should not exceed 20-22 degrees, if it is winter, then it should be below 15-16 degrees.

The air in the room should not be dry. Otherwise, it is better to turn on the humidifier. As for the lighting, it should not be too bright. sunlight necessary for every plant, but for begonias, its excess can harm. Moreover, protect the plant from direct rays, which will dry out tender leaves and petals.

AT different time year, the mode of watering begonias is different. If it doesn't need a lot of water in winter and thrives in slightly damp soil, it should be watered more frequently in summer. But, nevertheless, it is necessary to ensure that the soil is not too wet, otherwise the roots may rot.

The same applies to the flowering period of begonias. When the petals open, she needs more moisture than usual. But after the inflorescences fall, you can return to the previous drinking regimen.

It is impossible to say the exact amount of watering, it depends on air quality and time of year. Your plant will let you know when it feels comfortable and when it needs to be watered.

Pay attention to the quality of the water with which you are going to irrigate the begonia. Ordinary tap water will not work due to the high chlorine content. To reduce it, boil, pass water through a filter or let it stand.

Begonia should be watered no more than once a day and preferably at the same hour. In summer, this can be done every day, and in winter 2-3 times a week. To keep the plant comfortable, water with warm water. Refrain from spraying the leaves, as they may change color.

Fertilizers for begonias

An important point in the care of room begonia is top dressing. It helps to prolong the life of the plant, to please us more often with its flowering, saves from pests and diseases. But fertilizer is no less important for young shoots grown at home.

To choose the right top dressing, you need to look for the inscription "for indoor plants", and also pay attention to the composition. It should contain magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron. Avoid chlorine content. Presented in gardening stores today wide selection fertilizers that meet all necessary requirements. In addition, there is special formulations designed specifically for this type of plant.

You should also pay attention to the time for which fertilizers are intended. Some are introduced during the period of budding, others in the second half of flowering. On average, begonias are fertilized once a month, but if necessary, you can do this more often, but with a less concentrated solution.

To plant begonia at home, you need to purchase the tubers of this plant. They are available at any store that sells gardening supplies. You will also need soil for indoor plants, fertilizer for tubers and several pots of different diameters.

The optimal tuber size is slightly larger matchbox, you can also ask for seedlings with a broken sprout, so the begonia will begin to delight you with its flowering much earlier.

Before planting, it is necessary to prepare a pot: pour expanded clay on the bottom, and then soil. The tuber should be placed on the ground with the flat side down, it is from there that the roots will appear. The other side has a concave shape and an uneven surface that the kidneys form. A purchased tuber should not be heavily sprinkled with earth, otherwise it may not sprout. It is especially important to leave the middle open so that the sprouts can easily make their way up.

The earth around the tuber should be periodically moistened, and the pot should be kept in a well-lit place with room temperature. When the sprout rises 5 cm from the ground, it should be half filled. A month later, the begonia will acquire the features of an "adult" plant, and may soon bloom.

The first flowers last for a long time - summer and almost all autumn, so you will have time to enjoy its unusual velvety petals. Also, begonia can be planted in the garden for the warm season, just pick up right sort and choose a place protected from direct sunlight.

Begonia has gained well-deserved popularity among gardeners. It is not whimsical in care and blooms throughout the warm period of the year and gives beauty and joy. Propagating begonias is also quite simple.

seed propagation
Growing begonias with seeds should begin in January. Seeds are poured onto the soil and covered with glass or film. It is worth irrigating them with a spray bottle and keeping them in the light, but not in the sun, and at room temperature.

After a month, the first sprouts will appear, they should be transplanted into a pot with a small diameter. For all the time that the begonia grows, it needs to be transplanted 3 times. By the end of August, the first flowers will appear that will delight you all autumn.

Begonia grown from seeds is prepared for wintering at the end of October. It is necessary to remove dried and yellowed leaves from it and rearrange it in a place well lit with artificial light.

Reproduction by cuttings
To get begonia cuttings, it is necessary to plant tubers at the beginning of winter, which are called uterine. After about a month, the cuttings should be carefully disconnected, and the fusion sites should be disinfected.

After that, they need to be dried a little and planted in the soil. The roots of the cuttings will give about 3-4 weeks after planting, and then they can be distributed in separate pots. At the same time, new tubers are not formed, and such begonias should be cared for in the same way as seed begonias.

Reproduction by tubers
To get several begonias from one tuber, it is necessary to divide it into 2 or 3 parts so that 1-2 sprouts remain on one piece. After that, they are planted in the soil, lightly sprinkled with earth and periodically watered. A month later, roots form, and the sprouts increase by 3-5 cm. Now they can be planted in small pots, and after a while they can be moved to containers with a large diameter.

Before the start of winter tuberous begonia should be cut at a height of about 2 cm from ground level, pull out the roots and clean well. During the crescent, the tubers need to be dried, and then placed in a box and sprinkled with peat. So the begonia is stored in the cellar or refrigerator until the time of planting.

Begonia transplant

As root system the plant is developing, the container in which it is planted needs to be changed. If you immediately place it in big pot, then the part that is underground will begin to rot. Therefore, experts recommend replanting begonias at least once every two years.

Begonia transplant scheme:

  • lay a newspaper on the table and place a plant pot next to it;
  • take a knife and run it along the walls, disconnecting the ground from them;
  • then turn the pot over the newspaper, carefully holding the begonia stem at the base;
  • pull out the roots and shake them off the ground;
  • lay the bottom of the new pot with expanded clay and cover with earth with a layer of 1 cm;
  • place a begonia in it and gently sprinkle with soil, fixing the roots and part of the stem;
  • press the ground a little, 2-3 cm should remain from the edges of the walls.

Begonia is stressed after transplantation, so provide it with comfortable conditions. The air temperature in the room should be at 22 degrees, the lighting is not too bright, and the air is humid. Do not immediately water the plant after transplantation, wait a few days until it "takes root" in a new place. For a couple of months, it should be watered no more than once every seven days.

If you decide to arrange a small Botanical Garden or just love indoor plants, begonias should definitely appear in your apartment. This plant does not need special care, but blooms very beautifully for a long time. It will bring coziness and summer mood to your home.

Video: the basics of successful begonia care

The begonia flower has over 900 varieties and is widely distributed as a houseplant. There are three-meter giants among them, and there are very small centimeter crumbs. This magnificent beauty is named after the governor of Haiti, Begon, because the plant comes from the tropics.

Types of begonias - diversity created by nature and people

Before deciding how to care for begonia at home, you need to decide what kind of plant you like.
The main types of begonias are divided into two huge groups - flowering and deciduous, further the classification is as follows:
Flowering varieties:

    • tuberous begonia in the photo may be without leaves - they fall from this plant, and a new generation grows from tubers. Luxurious and abundant flowering, flowers 5-15 cm, the most different shades, terry or simple, two-color, with a border;

    • bushy, in need of a period of sleep. The most common species is the ever-flowering garden begonia (see photo), planting and caring for which is not difficult. The ever-flowering begonia pleases with its delicate flowers almost all year round, but it must be renewed by cuttings every 3 years, as the stems stretch and become unattractive;

  • evergreen begonia.

Decorative and deciduous varieties, characterized beautiful leaves with interesting colors

    • when you see the royal begonia in the photo, you will understand why it is in the lead in the group of decorative and deciduous. These are heart-shaped leaves with heterogeneous colors of green, brown and red tones;

    • spotted;

    • brindle;

    • Cleopatra;

  • Mason's begonia.

The ampelous begonia will attract attention even from the photo, the planting and care of which is the same as for the rest of the species of this plant. Ampel begonia belongs to the tuberous and is used in vertical gardening, as it forms an attractive flower garland up to half a meter in length. When the plant is not blooming, it pleases with attractive leaves.

Advice! Caring for the ampelous variety is simple - you should plant the plant in a pot with soil made of sand, humus and turf, and place it near a well-lit window.

The basic requirements of begonias are light, watering and humidity, temperature

In order for your plant to be as wonderful as the begonia in the photo, home care should be provided according to the following recommendations:

  1. Lighting. It is better to place pots with begonias on the southeast or southwest windows. The place should be bright, but without direct sun, because under the sun's rays, burns will appear on tender leaves.
  2. Temperature. In order for you to enjoy a photo of begonia flowers grown by yourself, you need to know that the plant is thermophilic. In summer, the optimal temperature regime for it is 18-20 ° C, and in winter the thermometer should not fall below 18 ° C.
  3. Watering. Abundant regular watering is needed only in summer, when it is hot. In autumn and winter, watering is reduced to moderate. Begonias do not like waterlogging, therefore they are watered only when upper layer the substrate will dry out by 1.5 cm. And it is better to use soft, pre-settled water.
  4. Humidity. Do not spray begonias, as brown spots appear on the leaves. However high humidity is very important for the plant, and therefore the containers are placed on a tray with wet moss.

Advice! You can also put vessels with water or wet expanded clay next to the plants.

Rules for transplanting begonias. Selection of soil and fertilizers

Care and cultivation of begonias require proper fit and regular replanting. In order for the plant to feel good, good drainage will be required, and the soil should be loose and light, but at the same time nutritious. The most commonly used mixture with the following composition:

  • leaf ground - 2 hours;
  • turf - 1 hour;
  • peat - 1 hour;
  • humus - 1 hour;
  • sand - 1/3 tsp

If we are talking about planting young plants, you can use a soil mixture of leaf and peat soil in a ratio of 1: 1 for them.

Advice! Ready soil, bought in a store, you can independently supplement with chopped sphagnum moss.

Young plants should be placed on sunny side, and leaves will quickly begin to appear on them. And after 1.5 months the first buds will appear and open beautiful flowers begonias as in the photo.

Transplant mature plant stands no more often than every two years, and young - annually, in the spring. The pot should become cramped, and only then is the transplant carried out. An exception is if you bought a begonia in a store - then a transplant is desirable immediately, since during this operation you can assess the condition of the plant's root system.

Important! The soil is not poured under the very top of the container, since the begonia forms additional roots, and they should be covered with new earth.
From the moment the buds appear, the plant is fertilized. This requires a universal complex fertilizer suitable for flowering indoor plants. The frequency of top dressing is twice a month.

Begonia propagation methods

Begonias can be propagated by cuttings of stems and leaves, as well as dividing the bush, and tubers or seeds collected after flowering are used to propagate tuberous varieties. Most often propagated by cuttings in the spring:

  • you need to choose a strong and healthy leaf or stalk;
  • place it in a moistened mixture of sand and peat (proportion 3: 1). Planted immediately to prevent drying of the cut;
  • the container is taken to a dark place for 1.5 months until a new begonia is born.

Important! The leaf stalk for breeding begonias must be at least 5 cm, and the stem - not shorter than 7 cm.

But for begonias, tuberous planting and care are somewhat different. To propagate the plant by tubers, it is necessary to provide proper storage tubers: they are placed in sand or peat in the fall and kept at a temperature of + 8 ... 10 ° C all winter, and in the spring they are planted in containers with a suitable substrate and drainage. Tubers in the substrate deepen only half. Further, the plant is provided with moderate watering. For several weeks, the tuber will germinate, fix roots in the ground, and only then will it release shoots. As soon as the shoots appear, the desired layer of earth is poured on top of the tubers and the containers are transferred to the light. Already in the middle of summer, the plants will be covered with flowers, and by winter they will form new baby tubers.

Possible difficulties in caring for begonia

Various consequences improper care at home for ever-flowering begonia can be seen in the photo.

The most common troubles are:

  • the plant sheds buds and leaves - it lacks moisture;
  • if the leaves are too pale, then the plant does not have enough light;
  • when it is too wet and cold, gray rot can appear on begonias - mold. Then all the affected parts are removed, and the plant is treated with a fungicide;
  • can settle spider mite or aphids, which will draw juices from the plant. Such begonia must be washed soapy water tobacco or chamomile, and also treated with insecticide or pyrethrum preparations.

Begonia (Begonia) is a unique herbaceous plant in the number of species and varieties that differ in shape, color of flowering, size and habitats. In the Begoniev family there are perennials and annuals, which are represented herbaceous plants, undersized shrubs and full-fledged semi-shrubs.

Begonia can be found in countries with a tropical and subtropical climate - in Africa, America and Southeast Asia, and even on the island of Madagascar. Types of begonias amaze with a range of sizes and shapes. Most small plant it can be only a few centimeters in height, and the largest reaches a three-meter mark. Begonia has adapted to different conditions growth. It can grow in moist wooded soils, and on the roots of old trees, and in crevices of cold rocks.

Begonias are native to the Antilles. The plant was discovered there back in 1687 by members of one of the scientific expeditions organized by Michel Begon. Subsequently, plants unknown at that time, found and described by the French botanist Charles Plumier, who also participated in this trip, were named after him.

In horticulture, there are 125 species of this flower and a large number of hybrid forms, as breeders have done a huge and active work over the past decades. The total number of begonias is approaching a thousand copies. Among this large family you can find decorative begonias, both flowering and deciduous. Tuberous large-flowering begonias obtained by hybridization are very popular.

In the second half of the nineteenth century in different countries new species of begonias were found. For example, in India - royal begonia, in Peru - Veitch's begonia, in Bolivia - Pierce's begonia and Bolivian, in the highlands South America– . But flower growers and gardeners give the greatest preference to begonias of Belgian varieties.

Types of begonia

For growing in room conditions hybrid forms of begonias are most suitable. decorative qualities have both flowering and deciduous plant species. Among flowering species, two categories of plants are found. Some are evergreen, while others are shedding leaves. Evergreens do not bloom as spectacularly as the other species, but all year round delight with juicy green foliage. Those specimens in which the foliage dies off have a beautiful and lush bloom, but tuberous propagation will be required to grow the next generation of flowers.

Location and lighting

Lighting for deciduous species begonias should not be very bright, partial shade, especially in hot and sunny summer period, because Sun rays when hit on the leaves of begonias, they leave burns. Flowering begonia species prefer brighter lighting at any time of the year, but it must be protected from direct sun with a white cloth or thin paper and also take advantage of the blinds.

Temperature

The temperature regime of begonia content changes with the seasons. In warm spring and summer months the plant needs a temperature in the range of 20-25 degrees, and in the remaining months - from 18 to 20 degrees of heat.

Air humidity

Humidity has for the development of begonias great importance. Its level should be constantly close to 60%. You can maintain such humidity with the help of additional water containers that will stand next to a houseplant or a special electrical appliance which will humidify the air. The liquid will constantly evaporate and maintain required level humidity.

Another way to moisten can be a container with wet moss or peat, in which you need to place a pot of begonia. But the spraying habitual for other colors will have to be abandoned, since the begonia may die from such water procedures. Drops of water that fall on the leaves of a plant will leave stains behind. Brown color and cause leaves to fall.

Watering

Watering begonias requires plentiful or moderate - depending on the season. On hot summer days, the plant needs a lot of moisture, and in cold autumn and winter, the number of waterings and their volumes decrease. Excess and lack of moisture in the soil can lead to negative consequences. Therefore, the next watering is recommended only when the soil dries out by two centimeters. Water should not stagnate in the soil, so you need to regulate its volume during irrigation. Water for irrigation should be only purified or thawed and approximately equal to the air temperature in the room.

The soil

The optimal composition of the soil for growing begonias: 2-3 parts of leafy soil, 1 part of sand, black soil and peat.

Top dressings and fertilizers

Complex dressings must be applied twice a month, starting from the period of begonia budding and throughout the entire flowering period. This applies to decorative flowering types of begonias. But for decorative and deciduous representatives, nitrogen-free fertilizers are needed, because this nutrient contributes to the active development of the leaf mass and inhibits the flowering process.

Transfer

Tuberous varieties of begonias are planted in the soil in early spring. Transplantation of rhizomatous flower species is carried out as the houseplant grows. Do not transplant begonias with dry soil in a pot or immediately after moistening it. A favorable time for transplanting is the next day after watering.

It is worth taking care in advance of the volume and composition of the soil mixture for a new flower container. The composition of the soil should include: sand, peat and black soil in equal proportions, as well as two parts of leafy or garden soil. On the day of transplanting, the soil in the flower container should be only slightly moist.

Begonia must be removed from the pot along with an earthy clod and carefully (you can use a small thin stick) release the root part from the ground. The plant should stand for some time in a weak manganese solution (only its root part), and then it is necessary to get rid of damaged or rotted parts of the root with a sharp knife. All small roots entangled in a lump, as well as diseased parts of large roots, are subject to pruning. It is recommended to sprinkle the places of cuts with crushed activated or charcoal.

The begonia is placed in new pot with a soil mixture and sprinkled with earth almost to the very top, immediately watered abundantly. Over the next week, the earth will gradually settle, the top layer will dry out a little, after which you can add the missing amount of soil. In these 6-7 days, watering is not carried out, they are replaced by daily spraying.

Immediately after transplantation, it is recommended to prune the plant. This will contribute to the formation of a shrubby form and less evaporation of moisture. Begonia should spend the first week in a new container indoors without drafts and in shady conditions.

Begonia care during dormancy

Begonia tuberous species after the end of flowering should gradually go into a dormant period. To do this, it is necessary to gradually reduce the number and volume of irrigation until the aerial part dries completely. indoor flower. All dried parts of the plant are completely removed, and the flower is placed in cool conditions with a temperature of 10 to 12 degrees Celsius for 2.5-3 months. At the same time, watering should be continued, but in minimal quantities and very rarely.

The beginning of spring is auspicious time for breeding begonias.

Reproduction by seeds

Sowing seeds is recommended to be carried out in the last week of winter or at the very beginning of spring. Small seeds are scattered on the surface of the earth in a box, without crushing them with soil, covered with glass and placed in a warm (about 25 degrees Celsius) room in a well-lit place. Soil irrigation is carried out using a sprayer. For sowing, it is desirable to use freshly harvested seeds, although they retain their germination capacity for three years after harvest.

The picking of young seedlings is carried out twice. The first time - after the formation of the third full-fledged leaf, and the second time - 1.5-2 months after the appearance of the seedlings. Young plants are transplanted into small individual pots.

From the moment the seedlings appear until the beginning of April, it is necessary to illuminate the plants with fluorescent lamps due to the short daylight hours and the lack of natural light. It's about 4-5 hours a day.

Early sowing of seeds (approximately in the first week of January) contributes to the formation of large tubers and active flowering already in the first summer season. With late sowing, small tubers are formed (about 1 centimeter in diameter), and flowering does not occur in the same year.

Reproduction by tuber division

The tubers of a mature plant should be cut into several pieces, sprinkled with crushed charcoal, left to dry, and then germinated in seedling boxes or flower pots.

Reproduction by cuttings

On the cut cuttings of begonias, at least three leaves should remain. Places of cuts must be sprinkled with activated charcoal (powdered). Rooting of the plant occurs within a month at a temperature of at least 20 degrees and good soil and air moisture. The location of the flower needs to be shaded.

Reproduction by dividing the bush

Suitable for this method bush varieties begonias. The bush is divided along with the root part and planted in separate pots. At the time of rooting, begonia should be in a bright and warm room.

Reproduction by division of the rhizome

This method of reproduction can be used during the spring transplant of the plant. After separation, each part of the plant should have a shoot with or without a bud and a root. Charcoal needed for sprinkling cuts on the roots to prevent the appearance of rotting of the root part. All parts of begonias are planted in individual containers and follow all the rules for caring for an indoor flower.

Great harm to begonias is caused by: spider mites, nematodes and aphids. Gray rot can be formed due to the appearance of a fungus. Pest control measures - pruning of the affected parts, treatment with fungicides.

The plant is sick due to a violation of the rules for caring for it. The most common diseases:

  • Withering and dropping of buds and leaves - due to lack of humidity in the air and soil.
  • Drying of the tips of the leaves - improper watering.
  • The pallor of the leaf mass is a lack of light.
  • Twisting and drying of the leaves, the appearance of white bloom (signs fungal disease- powdery mildew) - due to an excess of humidity in the room and water condensate on the leaves.

Control measures - regular airing of the room, moderate lighting, timely fertilization.

Growing flowering indoor begonia (video)


In the hustle and bustle of fast-flying working days filled with stressful situations and numerous problems, it is so important to have an island of peace, beauty and harmony, where the soul rests. An activity that will bring the desired relaxation and peace can be growing begonias at home.

Varieties of this ornamental plant many, and each of them is good in its own way. Some captivate the eye with carved leaves unusual shape and color, others - huge double flowers. Very effective appearance at the tuberous begonia, luxurious ampel varieties. Possessing a catchy sensual beauty, these flowers do not require special attention. Planting and caring for them is quite within the power of even those who are just starting to get acquainted with the intricacies of breeding indoor plants.

Lighting and temperature

It is best to place a begonia pot near a window facing the east or west side. A flowering plant needs a lot of bright light to grow quickly and maintain a rich leaf color. But being in the sun will not do him any good: exposure to direct sunlight can lead to burns. Therefore, in spring and summer in the daytime, he needs to provide light shading.

You can do this using the following materials:

  • floral film;
  • paper;
  • tracing paper;
  • gauze;
  • sunscreen;
  • roller blinds.

Care for decorative and deciduous varieties of begonias in relation to choice optimal location for the pot is slightly different. They do not need bright lighting, at home it is preferable to place them in partial shade, even at a small distance from the window.

A flowerpot with a flower cannot be often moved from place to place. The plant gets used to certain lighting and temperature, and constant changes in these factors will adversely affect its development and flowering.

Although begonia originates from the shores of southern countries, it does not like extreme heat. AT summer time at home, the most comfortable temperature for a flower is in the range of 21-23 ° C. In winter, it should be at least 15-18°C. The plant is very negative about hypothermia: its growth slows down greatly.

Watering rules

Proper care of begonias involves following the rules for watering a flower.

  • In spring and summer, especially during extreme heat, indoor begonias are watered often and plentifully, making sure that water does not get on the leaves. Doing so better in the morning when the air is still warm. Water must be defended, it must be soft and warm (at least 20 ° C). After intensive moistening, the earth should be slightly loosened. The next watering is carried out if the soil has dried out from above to a depth of 1-1.5 cm. It is impossible to allow the soil to dry out, but moisture should not stagnate in a pan or in a pot so that the roots of the plant do not rot.
  • With the onset of winter, watering becomes rare and moderate. At this time, care for begonias at home will be better if the pot with plants is slightly insulated. It is impossible that the root system of the flower is supercooled, otherwise it may die.

The homeland of begonias is the tropics and subtropics with a humid climate, so dry indoor air adversely affects them. When water gets on the leaves of the flower, they become covered with ugly dark brown spots, so spraying the plant is not recommended. There is another effective method humidify the air at home. Expanded clay is poured into a shallow container and water is poured, adding fresh water as it dries. A pot of begonias is placed on top of the pellets. Evaporation will provide her with the necessary humidity, which should be at least 50-60%. Instead of expanded clay, you can use peat or moss.

Trimming and pinching

Caring for begonias at home includes mandatory pruning. It allows you to rejuvenate the bush, form a luxurious crown and improve flowering. The first pruning is carried out when the plant reaches 6-7 cm in height, removing the top sharp knife. Thanks to this procedure, dormant buds are activated in bush begonias, and side shoots begin to develop intensively in the lower part of the stem.

After pruning, the flower is placed in a shaded place and sprayed with water several times a day. Reduce the frequency of watering at this time. You can return to the previous regime of soil moisture after the active growth of the seedling is outlined.

The next pruning is done when the length of the side shoots is 10 cm. When choosing a place for the cut, you need to focus on the direction of the buds. The top one remaining on the branch should face outward. Further care behind a young bush is to periodically shorten overgrown shoots and remove dried or damaged stems and leaves.

Another way to give the plant a decorative and well-groomed appearance, and its crown the desired shape, is to pinch the shoots. They do it either before flowering begins, or after it is completed, pinching off top point growth of the main stem by 1-2 cm.

Fertilizer

Growing a healthy and strong plant at home is impossible without top dressing. Until the end of the growing season, when the rest time comes for the begonia, it is carried out regularly, every 1.5-2 weeks.

The nutritional composition is chosen depending on the variety of the flower.

  • Caring for decorative leafy begonias involves the use of fertilizers containing a lot of nitrogen. It is necessary for rapid growth and intensive formation of new leaves. Well proven means such as "Kemira", "Uniflor-growth",. Bred and apply them strictly according to the instructions.
  • Care flowering plants carried out with the help of complex compositions with great content potassium and phosphorus and minimal nitrogen. Thanks to these elements, indoor begonia will give a lot of buds, and flowering will be long. Mixtures "Bud", "Ovary", "Healthy" are in demand. They begin to make them from the moment the bush blooms.

If the plant is not fed, its appearance deteriorates. The color of the stems and leaves becomes pale, the buds become smaller, their number decreases, they may not appear at all, the flowers quickly fade. The bush itself looks stunted and emaciated. But also overdo it with the introduction nutrients not worth it, their excess is harmful to plants.

Decorative leafy varieties of begonias stop fertilizing with the advent of autumn. For flowering forms the end time of top dressing is determined by the duration of flowering. If the plant is covered with buds late autumn or even in winter, they continue to be fed until they wither.

Winter period in the life of begonias

Tuberous begonias for the winter require mandatory pruning. With the advent of autumn, the plant is watered less frequently. When the leaves on the bush dry up, its aerial part is removed with a sharp knife at a height of 1-2 cm from the surface. October is considered the ideal time for the procedure.

Then the flowerpot with tuberous begonia is placed in a dark place. It can be a basement, a cellar, a glazed loggia. In an apartment for storing a plant, the space under the bathroom is suitable. For wintering to be successful, the air should not heat up above 15°C. Occasionally, the soil in the pot is moistened so that it does not dry out completely.

Winter for begonias is a dormant period. At this time, the plant accumulates energy and strength in order to active growth please abundant flowering. It's not worth worrying about. It is not recommended to transplant plants, move them to another place, turn them. With a cold snap, their growth slows down, they no longer need fertilizer.

Landing Features

At home, planting begonias, depending on the variety, is carried out in one of two ways:

  1. seeds;
  2. tubers.

Planting by seeds is acceptable only for two varieties of the plant: ever-flowering and decorative-flowering. Sow them in February using convenient containers. They are filled with leafy soil, peat and sand (2:1:1). Soak the seeds hard nutrient soil no need, just roll them a little. Then the container with seedlings is covered with glass or film.

For germination and uniform development of seedlings, it is necessary special care: temperature in the region of 20-22 ° C and periodic moistening of the soil with a spray gun. After 2-3 weeks after sowing, the seedlings dive. Do this very carefully so as not to damage the delicate stems. In a month, young shoots can be planted in a permanent pot.

Growing tuberous begonias will require more attention. To obtain strong flower, the care of which will not bring much trouble, it is better to plant tubers that have already sprouted. This is not difficult to achieve, it is enough to decompose them into wet tissue in a warm place with good lighting. When the roots are formed - and you won’t have to wait long for their appearance - the tubers are planted in pots. They should not be deeply deepened, it is enough to dig in 1-2 cm. The most favorable time for the procedure is March.

Transfer

For all types of begonias, including tuberous, acidified soils are preferred. Plants are undemanding to the composition of the soil, it can be easily prepared at home. A guarantee of health and active flower growth is good drainage. It will be provided by a layer of medium-sized gravel, peat moss or ordinary sand. Sheet earth is poured on top, it should fill the container halfway. The remaining space is occupied by peat and black soil, mixed in equal proportions. Then it remains only to plant the plant in the ground.

If the begonias become crowded in a pot, you need to change it to a more spacious one. Do it better in early spring. The flower is carefully removed, its roots are carefully cleaned of old soil and briefly dipped in a weak solution of potassium permanganate. After disinfection, carefully examine the root system of the plant. If there are areas with signs of rot, they are removed.

The flower will take root faster if, during transplantation, its roots are not immediately completely covered with earth. Leave some room for the top of the pot. When the roots are dry, you can add fresh soil and cover them.

After transplanting, which is stressful for plants, begonias will need more attention and care. They need to be watered more often and thoroughly. Do not immediately put the flowerpot on a brightly lit window sill, it is better for the flowers to stay in the shade for some time. They usually take root in a new pot within 1 month.


Begonia is one of those plants that can safely be called universal. Its cultivation is possible both in the open air in the garden and at home. It will decorate any window, balcony, veranda, front garden, steps in front of the house. The forms and varieties of the plant are so diverse that even the most capricious grower will find a variety that will suit his taste. A special place in women's hearts belongs to tuberous begonia.

It is difficult to find another flower that combines bizarre sophistication and amazing unpretentiousness. Worth a gift indoor begonias just a little time and care, and they will definitely thank you with magnificent fragrant flowers or thick carved foliage, the beauty of which will not leave anyone indifferent.

The most popular decorative and deciduous and decorative flowering plant is begonia. It perfectly absorbs toxic substances, helps to cleanse the bronchi. In addition, the flower contributes to the creation Have a good mood. How to care for begonia at home?

Types of begonias and care

Today, more than 900 varieties and types of flowers, about 2000 hybrids are known. All crops for cultivation are divided into 2 groups - flowering (tuberous, bushy, evergreen) and deciduous. Caring for begonias at home is simple and unassuming. The plant does not need frequent transplanting and certain temperature. In order for the flower not to bloom ahead of time, certain rules should be followed:

  • moisten the soil daily in extreme heat;
  • create optimal temperature;
  • the pot must be placed on a saucer with peat and moistened periodically;
  • water in the summer 2 times in 5 days;
  • it is necessary to feed once every 2 weeks after the moment of flowering;
  • reduce winter watering to a minimum.

Elatior

most popular blooming view plants is begonia Elatior, which is distinguished by the duration of flowering, a wide variety of shades. Under proper conditions, it can bloom at least all year round almost continuously. The flower is very fond of light, although it is not able to withstand the direct rays of the sun, so it is necessary to put the pot on the north window. If you have Elatior begonia, home care should be as follows:

  • not allowed near front door;
  • loose breathable soil is required;
  • waterlogging is unacceptable;
  • it is better that the transplant is carried out a month after the purchase;
  • daily spraying with warm water is necessary.

Rex

A hybrid species of the family - begonia Rex or royal, comes from India. The small, fleshy stem of the plant is strewn with reddish bristles. The leaves are large, pointed, asymmetrical, have a serrated edge. Rex does not require special conditions, but to save bright color necessary:

  • use soil with medium acidity;
  • avoid standing water;
  • choose a wide pot with drainage holes;
  • water regularly and moderately settled water;
  • put the plant on a western window with diffused sunlight.

Ampelnaya

Subspecies tuberous plants- ampelous begonia, often used for vertical gardening. Hanging shoots 50 cm long, as a rule, are strewn with many crimson, white, yellow, orange flowers. In order for the plant to bloom well, you must:

  • place the flower in the sun, but so that the rays are scattered, not direct;
  • water the pot abundantly and regularly;
  • make sure that the soil remains slightly acidic, i.e. constantly introduce nitrogenous fertilizers;
  • watering closer to autumn should be gradually reduced to moderate;
  • ventilate the room.

coral

Such perennial, like coral begonia, can reach a height of 90 cm and 50 cm in width under room conditions. This variety has pink flowers, straight bare stem, leaves - green with silvery patches. To flowering plant felt great, it should be in soil that allows moisture and air to pass through. It is also necessary:

  • choose the right durable pot (it is better to buy a clay one);
  • plentiful in summer, water regularly;
  • avoid direct sunlight, only in winter should be exposed flower pot on the window, because lack of light will cause the leaves to fade;
  • to maintain humidity, it is necessary to spray the air.

red-leaved

A variety of leafy plants is Fista or red-leaved begonia. It has a short green stem, long smooth leaves that are red on the inside. With proper care, a bush plant can turn out. Flower needed:

  • provide compost soil for planting;
  • reduce watering in winter to once every 10 days;
  • in summer, it is periodically necessary to spray the air around the pot with water;
  • find a place in the house with diffused bright light.

Brindle

Houseplant - tiger begonia - attracts attention with its compactness and beauty. Like hogweed, it belongs to decorative group and is valued for the uniqueness of its leaves. White small flowers appear only in winter, some flower growers prefer to remove them, because. they have no aesthetic value. The plant is not capricious, but there are features that help the flower feel comfortable:

  • so that the leaves do not dry out, the flowerpot must be placed on a pallet with wet expanded clay;
  • the air temperature should be +18 in winter, no more than 22 in summer;
  • direct sunlight should be avoided, it is better to place the pot on the north window;
  • it is necessary to carry out watering as the earth dries up, while the water should be warm settled.

It is considered the most beautiful representative of the decorative leafy species. On its heart-shaped terry leaves is an image of a five-fingered dark cross. In summer and spring, small flowers of an emerald hue appear on the bush. In order for the plant to be comfortable, it is necessary:

  • protect it from drafts;
  • systematically water, moisten the soil;
  • monitor the drying of the soil;
  • provide the tree with dense diffused light;
  • make sure that moisture does not get on the leaves;
  • create additional care with artificial lighting.

Cleopatra

A lover of diffused saturated lighting begonia Cleopatra or American maple has leaves olive color and erect branching stem. Like collar and cuff species, this plant does not tolerate dry air and excessive watering. For proper development, the bush should be rotated regularly so that the sides receive uniform light. Care rules:

  • does not tolerate stagnant moisture, tk. the entire root system can rot;
  • should be watered only with warm settled water;
  • Cleopatra loves a damp atmosphere, but at the same time she does not tolerate moisture on the leaves.

reproduction

Many gardeners are often interested in how to propagate begonia and grow it? Planting is carried out by tubers and seeds, propagated vegetatively - by dividing the bush, cuttings of stems and leaves. The most common is cuttings. This method is used in spring and summer: stem cutting must be at least 7 cm, planting material immediately after the cut should be planted in a moist substrate. Put the container with the cuttings in a dark place. After 60 days, the plant will take root and you can plant it.

To breed tuberous species, you need to take tubers or seeds. For this:

  • in the fall, tubers should be removed from the ground;
  • cut the entire sheet;
  • clean the roots
  • place peeled tubers in peat;
  • the temperature regime should be approximately 11 degrees.

Diseases

  • powdery mildew. At the same time, the leaves appear white coating which is constantly growing. The flower may even begin to drop leaves. Causes of occurrence: low humidity air, heat.
  • Gray rot. The leaves are covered with watery, sticky gray spots. Over time, they begin to curl and rot. Reason: too abundant watering, high temperature, humidity.

Watering

Like any subtropical plant, begonia needs a lot of moisture, although at the same time it does not tolerate stagnant water. To provide optimal conditions for growth, you need to know how to water the begonia:

  • you can not spray the leaves, because. water can cause brown spots;
  • a special moisturizer should be used;
  • in winter, next to the flower, you can put a bowl of water;
  • watering the plant should be carried out evenly with settled water, in the morning or evening once every 3 days;
  • in winter and autumn, the intensity of watering should be reduced, as a rule, to once a week.

Landing

Many flower growers are interested in the question of how to plant a begonia so that it takes root well. This indoor flower will definitely require nutritious soil (2 parts of leafy soil, one part of black soil and peat). Growing a flower from seeds is troublesome, so it is better to take tubers. For this you need:

  • lay a layer of coarse-grained river sand on the bottom of the pot;
  • fill half of the container with sheet earth;
  • pour a mixture of black soil and peat on top;
  • tubers should be planted in the soil with a convex side;
  • water moderately;
  • when the buds appear, you can cut the tubers into pieces and sprinkle the slices with charcoal.

pruning

Novice flower growers do not always know why and how to prune begonias. The procedure is carried out to improve flowering and maintain proportions between the crown and the root system. In addition, if pruning is not done in a timely manner, the leaves will be smaller, an attractive appearance will disappear. Rules:

  • when the stems reach 8 cm, it is necessary to make the first pruning;
  • the procedure is carried out with a sharp knife; scissors cannot be used, because. they can injure the bush;
  • to speed up healing and avoid decay, treat the cut with wood ash.

flower transplant

Growing begonias will not require special skills from flower growers, you just need to know certain rules glaze, temperature regime and transplant times. It is carried out once every three years at the beginning of March. For the procedure, you will need to purchase a new pot, which should be 2 cm larger than the previous one. Rules:

  • remove carefully from the substrate;
  • clean the roots from the ground;
  • put for an hour in a container with a weak solution of potassium permanganate;
  • remove diseased areas;
  • put a layer of expanded clay on the bottom of the pot, pour coarse sand on top;
  • place the plant in the center and carefully cover the roots with soil mixture;
  • after transplanting, the flower needs abundant watering.

Wintering conditions

If you properly treat the storage of a plant in the off-season, then it will delight with its flowering for more than one year. How to save tuberous begonia in winter? This species is the most demanding in terms of content and, with the onset of cold weather, plunges into a state of rest. Features of care in the winter:

  • it is not recommended to transplant the plant;
  • reduce watering;
  • once a day, it is necessary to spray the air near the flower with water, but at the same time so that the drops do not accidentally fall on the leaves;
  • on a sunny day, put it outside the window for several hours.

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