Begonia clara home care. Proper care of begonias at home

This is the real queen of the window sill. Belongs to the genus Begoniaceae. Homeland - South Africa. natural conditions- highlands, tropical forest. The flowers are large, reaching a diameter of up to 13 cm in a tuberous one, and up to 4 cm in an ever-flowering one. The color is varied: red, white, pink and many others. With proper care, flowering is long - from April to October.

The flower is not capricious in care. He needs diffused light, frequent but moderate watering, with all this, the plant does not like spraying.

Diverse, different irregular shape. Perianth rich bright color. The fruit is a box with seeds. bright color. perennial herbaceous plant actively used in traditional medicine.

Cultivation and care

Site selection and temperature

The best choice is windows facing east or west. flowering species require more sunlight. In the heat, they create an artificial shadow, otherwise burns are possible. The most favorable temperature regime: in summer from 21 to 22 degrees, in winter 18-19 degrees.

Systematic ventilation is required, but the picturesque beauty does not tolerate drafts. From them, she can shed foliage or wither. Decorative leafy trees feel great in diffused light. In winter, it is important to provide the plant with additional lighting. Great helpers- fluorescent lamps.

The lack of light can be understood by the excessive green mass. The flower begins to stretch upwards and flowering may even stop altogether.

soil for flower

Nutrient required. You can buy it in a specialty store or mix it yourself. To prepare it, black soil and peat are used in equal amounts, and 2 times more leafy soil. Coarse-grained river sand is used as drainage. They pour on him leaf ground, and on top of peat and black soil.

Pot selection

A suitable pot is half the success in caring for a flower

Preference is given to a wide capacity of natural materials with many drainage holes. Too spacious container is not suitable. In it, begonia will suffer from waterlogging, which will negatively affect the flowering period.

Watering and humidity

A tropical inhabitant needs frequent but moderate watering and high air humidity. It is important to carefully monitor the condition of the soil. Stagnation of moisture causes root rot. Spraying is not used, it gives rise to brown spots on foliage. Therefore, you can use a mechanical humidifier. On hot days and winter period when turn on heating appliances, the pot is placed on a pallet with expanded clay, on which water is poured. The excess is poured out. This helps protect root system from excessive moisture and create favorable conditions. Purified water is used.

Cold moisture is unacceptable, it is better to use room temperature. For tuberous begonias, watering stops completely from December to February. The most suitable watering schedule: from June to August, abundant watering every 2 days (if the temperature is abnormally high, then moderate daily is acceptable); from mid-October to early December, moisture is significantly reduced and occurs as the earth dries up.

Plant nutrition

Timely and correct submission useful substances- a guarantee of the health of culture. The fertilizing period begins with the appearance of buds. Special complexes for flowering potted plants paid twice a month. When forming ovaries, it is recommended to use phosphate and potash fertilizers.

Decorative deciduous species require nitrogen substances. Adding to irrigation liquid organic fertilizers you can achieve more lush and long flowering.

Pruning - is it necessary?

Not needed for potted begonias. You can remove faded flowers. This will allow other buds to bloom more luxuriantly. So that the plant does not waste energy, the seed box is also cut off.

Neighborhood as an important element of proper care

For full flowering and growth, space is needed. Too tight crowd flower pots on one window negatively affects the decorative qualities of the plant.

Flower transplant

It is necessary to carry out in March, every 2-3 years for an adult. A signal about the need to change the pot is the root system, which does not fit in the container. new vessel slightly different in size from the previous one - by 2-3 cm in diameter. The bush is pulled out of the ground carefully so as not to damage the roots.

The earthen ball is carefully shaken off. After that, the roots should be disinfected in a weak solution of manganese (it is enough to soak for 1 hour). After that, you need to carefully examine them for rotting, diseases or pests. If necessary, remove the affected fragments.

If the pot is new, then the first layer is expanded clay, coarse-grained sand is poured on top. A plant is installed on it, and the roots are covered with soil mixture. The process ends with abundant watering.

Pests and diseases

Decrease in decorativeness

Failure to follow the rules for care immediately affects the appearance of the pet. If it drops buds or leaves, then it is important to change the watering and moistening schedule. This signals a lack of water and dry air. Flowering not starting? There can be multiple reasons for this:

• incorrectly selected temperature regime,
• poor or abundant watering,
• drafts,
• lack of sunlight.

Rot and powdery mildew

An excess of moisture or spraying with a spray bottle will attract these unpleasant ailments. You can fight them without chemical substances. It is enough to let the soil dry, and remove the infected parts.

and

Spider mite - can cause significant damage to the plant

These " uninvited guests»feed on begonia sap. This is the basis of their diet. From folk remedies the most famous fight against them - soap solution tobacco. But more success can be achieved by using insecticides.

flower reproduction

seeds

Simple, lightweight and effective method. At the end of winter, they are sown in a loose substrate, without deepening into it. It is enough to spread evenly over the surface and spray with water. Each bowl is covered with a film (to preserve humidity) and transferred to a warm and bright room. As irrigation, spraying or a pallet with pebbles is used, on which liquid is poured.

The first shoots will appear after 4 weeks, the coating is immediately removed. Dive after the formation of at least 4 leaves in separate cups. After 7-8 weeks, you can transplant into a permanent flowerpot.

If you follow the rules for care, you can achieve flowering in the same year.

cuttings

Each cut cutting should have 3-4 leaves. Slices in without fail sprinkle with crushed activated carbon to avoid infection. For rooting, a special substrate is used: leaf and peat soil, sand, peat equal parts.

The room for storing vessels is chosen warm, with good lighting and reliable protection from drafts. Watering is necessary moderate, so that upper layer the earth had time to dry out. It is also permissible to use water for rooting. The root system is formed within a month.

How to choose a healthy plant in the store

If there is no desire to grow from a tuber, then at the end of spring you can purchase a pet with already formed buds.

The first criterion is the color and dimensions of the flower. Next, you should pay attention to the state of the exotic. Spots, signs of insects, diseases are symptoms of an unhealthy pet and you should refuse to buy. The inspection is carried out closely: the stems and foliage are turned over, the pot is slightly shaken and the soil is slightly crushed. Such, at first glance, incomprehensible actions will help to understand whether the conditions for watering and moistening are observed.

After the purchase, the pot is transferred to the shade and treated with special chemicals. If the begonia is chosen correctly, and its care is carried out in good faith, then it will delight the owner for many years. If you buy a tuber, then pay attention to the size. It must be at least 4 cm in diameter. Healthy planting material should have pink or white buds.

Species and varieties

The most popular and most decorative representatives:

• decorative leafy. Varieties differ in the shape and color of the leaves and bud. The most demanded grades: the Big mazonia, the Gray queen;
• decorative blooming. color is varied. Flowering is lush and long. Varieties: Merry Christmas, Yulitide;
• bush. Reaches up to 25 cm in height. Not whimsical, does not require much attention. Varieties: Multiflora;
• tuberous.

True fans of begonia appreciate not only its bright and lush bloom, but also unusual, beautifully colored asymmetrical decorative leaves. The homeland of the perennial is tropical forests and subtropical regions of America, Asia and Africa.

Popular types of indoor flower begonia and photos

Today, about 900 species of begonias are known in the world and at least 2 thousand hybrids have been obtained. Crops for growing in room conditions conditionally divided into two large groups - deciduous and flowering. Decorative and deciduous are different original form and leaf color. Flowering varieties of begonias are divided into groups of tuberous, evergreen and bushy, in need of a dormant period. Let's take a closer look at the most popular types:

• tuberous- has simple and double flowers of white, pink, yellow, bright red, orange colors. Petals can be two-tone or bordered. The sizes of the flowers range from 5 to 15 cm, the shapes are similar to a rose, carnation, peony;
• ever-blooming- the most popular begonia from the bushy group. It is grown as garden culture as well as in room conditions. In the latter case, the plant is able to bloom all year round. It has glossy leaves of red and green shades, dissolves small flowers of red, pink, white colors;
• royal- decorative-deciduous species is distinguished by large, up to 30 cm in length, leaves of a heterogeneous color of dark green, brown, red tones. The shapes of the leaf plates are similar to the heart or resemble the spiral of a snail;
• ampelous- this subspecies of tuberous begonias is used in vertical gardening. Shoots hanging in garlands 25-50 cm long are strewn with many white, raspberry, orange, yellow flowers, which bloom during the entire growing season;
• elatior- this tuberous begonia hybrid is intended for cultivation exclusively at home. It has thin shoots of red shades that need support. Blooms in autumn and winter. Petals in white, yellow, red, orange tones. glossy leaves round shape, flowers about 5 cm in diameter.

Home care for indoor flower

Begonia is demanding on lighting, it should be placed in a well-lit place.

Homemade begonia is unpretentious in planting conditions and easy to care for. It does not need frequent transplants, grows at moderate temperatures. Its tropical character makes special demands on air humidity. Some species after flowering arrange a dormant period.

Lighting and watering

Begonias are suitable for a well-lit room. Abundantly flowering varieties prefer diffused light. Decorative leafy specimens develop best in partial shade. good location flower pot there will be a window sill on the east or west window. In the winter months, it is recommended to arrange additional artificial lighting.

Begonia is hygrophilous. For irrigation use soft settled water, the excess is drained from the pan. Adhere to the following rules:

• in summer watered abundantly twice a week;
• in extreme heat, the soil is moistened daily;
• since October, the plant is watered as the top layer of the earth dries up;
• in winter, watering is reduced to a minimum;
• in March, the intensity of moisture is gradually increased.

Tuberous species hibernate for the winter. For this period, they are placed in peat, and watering is completely excluded.

Air humidity

Not when do not spray begonia it can lead to illness

The tropical origin of the plant makes high demands on indoor air humidity. It is not recommended to spray begonia, because of this it starts to hurt, spots appear on the leaves.

To satisfy the requirements of a flower, a special microclimate is created for it. For this:

• the pot is placed on a saucer with wet peat;
• pebbles are poured into a tray with water, on which a flower is placed.

Evaporating, the water will provide needed by the plant humidity level.

Optimal temperature for begonias

The plant does not like drops and prefers moderate temperatures. In summer, it is desirable to keep the flower at + 18 ... + 20 ° С. In winter, the air temperature should not fall below +15°C.

Soil for begonias and fertilizer

After transplanting begonias, frequent and plentiful watering is necessary.

Begonias require nutritious soil. It is made up of:

• 2 pieces of leaf ground;
• 1 part peat;
• 1 part black soil.

A layer of coarse-grained river sand. Half of the container is filled with sheet earth. Top filled with a mixture of peat and black soil.

It is difficult to grow a beautiful begonia without such an important component of care as fertilizer. Top dressing is carried out no more than twice a month during the formation of buds and intensive flowering. This usually happens in spring and summer. For this, complete mineral fertilizers are used.

How to transplant

Transplantation of begonias is carried out in early March once every two to three years. The need for this procedure is indicated by the roots that do not fit in the old pot. A new one is chosen 2-3 cm larger in diameter.

The begonia is carefully removed from the substrate, the roots are cleaned of the remnants of the earth. For an hour put in a container with a weak solution of potassium permanganate. After the root system is checked for rotting or pests. Remove diseased areas to healthy tissue.

A layer of expanded clay is laid at the bottom of the new pot, and coarse sand is on top. The plant is placed in a container and the roots are carefully sprinkled with soil mixture. After transplanting, the flower needs abundant watering.

flowering begonia

Begonia blooms profusely and very brightly. To extend this period, at the very beginning of development, remove female flowers. When the goal of the grower is the quality formation of tubers, new buds are removed in September. Then the plant will not waste energy on flowering.

When propagated by leaf cuttings, a strong copy is taken

Begonias are planted with seeds and tubers, propagated vegetatively - by cutting leaves and stems, dividing the bush.

Propagation by cuttings

This method is used in the spring and summer. The stem cutting for rooting must be at least 7 cm long. Immediately after the cut, the planting material is planted in a wet substrate of sand and peat in a ratio of 3:1. The container with landings is placed in a dark place. After 1-2 months, the plant takes root.

For propagation by leaf cuttings, the strongest specimen is chosen. The stalk is dug into the ground so that the leaf does not touch the surface of the soil. Until rooting, containers with leaves are kept in a dark room.

Growing begonias from seeds

Propagation by seeds is carried out from December to March. The nutrient substrate for sowing is prepared from leafy soil, peat and sand. Seeds are distributed over the surface of the soil, slightly pressing into the ground. Shoots appear in 10-15 days.

The grown seedlings dive. Young plants are transplanted into separate pots with a clod of earth. In the middle of summer, strengthened begonias may already bloom. By winter, a tuber of the plant is formed. In autumn, the tubers are stored in sand or peat. planting material contain at a temperature of +8 ... + 10 ° С. In the spring, the tubers are again planted in pots.

Care of tubers after planting

How and when to land tuberous begonia depends on when they expect to get a flowering plant. They begin to plant in February, and continue until June. For this:

• the tuber is deepened into the ground by half;
• leave in a cool dark room;
• water moderately for several weeks;
• when the shoots sprout, the tuber is completely covered with earth, and the pot is transferred to a bright, warm place.

Diseases and pests of begonia and plant care during this period

Spider mites and aphids are the most common pests in begonias.

Careless care and maintenance errors lead to the fact that the plant begins to hurt, drop leaves and buds. To understand the reasons for this condition, take a closer look at the begonia:

• if the tips of the leaves turn brown and begin to fall off, the flower lacks watering and air humidity;
• a pale leaf plate indicates a lack of lighting;
• excess moisture at low temperatures leads to the formation of fungus. The affected foliage and shoots are removed, and the flower is treated with fungicides;
• dry air and temperature fluctuations - a favorable environment for powdery mildew. She looks like white coating. To combat it, begonia is treated with a 1% aqueous solution of colloidal sulfur.

Memo to the grower

Begonias may not bloom for a number of reasons, ranging from poor lighting to excess fertilizer.

In the process of growing begonias, there may be non-standard situations and flower growers have additional questions about how to deal with them.

If the begonia does not bloom, the reasons may lie in the following factors:

• the plant does not have enough light;
• low humidity in the room;
• unsuitable temperature conditions;
• excess fertilizer;
• watering with hard water;
• lack of a dormant period;
• drafts.

Change the conditions of detention and watch the pet. You may need to transplant the flower into a fresh substrate. The lack of flowering may also indicate that it is time to rejuvenate the plant.

Why do begonias drop buds immediately after they appear?

This phenomenon indicates a weakened state of the flower. It can be caused by improper watering and lack of minerals. Such a flower needs top dressing.

Why do begonia leaves turn yellow?

Begonia is able to purify the air

Begonia leaves are rich in phytoncides, thanks to which it has amazing properties purify and improve indoor air. With its help, they fight pathogens. In particular, it is effective in the fight against staphylococcus aureus.

It is noticed that the presence of begonia improves immunity, increases efficiency and relieves fatigue. It is recommended not only as homemade, but also as office plant, as the flower helps to increase mental activity.

The plant has the ability to purify the air of dust and absorb toxic chemical compounds. Therefore, it is advised to start a begonia at home immediately after repair.

It is believed that begonia is able to give its owner strength and determination.

It is believed that begonia helps in achieving personal success. It contributes to the birth of new ideas, therefore it is useful for writers, journalists, and scientists.

Begonia is an Aries plant. The flower generously endows with energy, like all fire signs:

• useful for Leo and Sagittarius, as it helps to balance their energy chaos;
• Capricorn, Gemini, Libra - develop prudence;
• Pisces, Cancers, Scorpios - to establish harmonious relationships.

The influence of begonia on other zodiac signs is neutral.

Energy and symbolism

Due to its strong energy, begonia is able to give strength and determination. It is necessary where pessimists live, there are frequent quarrels. She transforms negative energy into the positive. It has a calming effect on irritable people and perfectly cheers up.

Begonia is a symbol of material well-being. She represents purity and virtue. To see begonia in a dream means that a person has a negative program that needs to be cleansed.

Healing properties of begonia

The plant is widely used in folk medicine. It is a good analgesic and antispasmodic agent, has anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects.

An infusion of flowers is used to treat wounds and burns, irritation and ulcers. The juice from the leaves is used to soothe headaches. The root is used in the treatment of conjunctivitis.

Caring for begonias at home is a task that even a novice grower can easily handle. lovely plants absolutely unpretentious. At the same time, they are distinguished by their amazing beauty and splendor of flowering.

Home care for begonia is a task that even a novice florist can easily cope with.

Marvelous flowers are often used to decorate flower beds, decorate parks, gardens, squares. Many flower growers grow them at home. On the windowsill green pet feels most comfortable. With proper care, he will delight with beautiful flowers for a long time.

Begonia belongs to the Begonia family. This species is unusually numerous. Yes, in wild nature there are more than 900 varieties of plants. And thanks to the work of breeders, more than 2,000 hybrids were brought out. Named beautiful flower in honor of Michel Begon. It was this specialist who first described the species in the 17th century. ornamental plant much later, about a century later.

Many flower growers grow them at home.

The first species described by Michel Begon was the begonia that grows in the Antilles. A few decades later, scientists discovered a species native to Brazil. And after that - the royal variety, found on the Hindustan peninsula. The latest was the tuberous South American begonia. It was the above plants that were the founders of modern varieties. At first, green pets were grown exclusively in greenhouses. In the future, varieties arose that were also suitable for breeding at home. Some varieties that can withstand the vagaries of nature are also suitable for outdoor cultivation.

In the wild, the begonia flower grows mainly in a humid climate, prefers the subtropics and tropics. Usually a marvelous plant chooses shaded areas. Some specimens are found in the mountains at an altitude of 4000 m, as well as on arid slopes.

plant varieties

Cultures suitable for breeding at home can be conditionally divided into two large kind: flowering and deciduous. The latter are distinguished by an unusual shape and non-standard foliage color. Decorative leafy varieties, in turn, are also divided into several types: evergreen, tuberous and bushy.

Experts identify several varieties of the most popular home begonias.

1. Tuberous flowers are a real window sill decoration. They differ in rather large sizes: the buds can grow up to 15 cm. The shape of the inflorescence resembles peonies. Flowers can be classic or double. The variety of colors is impressive: there are orange, white, pink, red specimens. Petals can be plain, two-tone or framed with a neat border.
2. The royal variety has a truly imperial grandeur. The main difference of this type is large bright green leaves, reaching a length of 30 cm. Leaf plates are also unusual, in shape they can resemble the heart or spirals of snails.
3. Begonia Elatior is a tuberous hybrid suitable exclusively for growing at home. Plants have reddish shoots that require support for proper growth. A pet blooms only in autumn and winter. Inflorescences can be yellow, red, white, orange. In diameter, they reach 5 cm. The leaves are glossy round.
4. Everblooming plants are the most popular species of the bushy group. This name was given to them for good reason: with proper care, begonias in a pot can bloom throughout the year. The flowers are quite small, they are white, pink, red. The leaves are glossy, have a rich green or red tint.
5. Ampelous begonias are often used in vertical street gardening, but flowers look great on window sills. Shoots hang in colorful garlands, reaching 25-50 cm in length. The branches of the plant are strewn beautiful flowers various shades: orange, yellow, white, pink. Buds open during the entire growing season.

Each variety is amazing and beautiful in its own way. To marvelous plants pleased with the wonderful appearance, you need to know how to care for begonia at home, and not make mistakes.

The first species described by Michel Begon was the begonia that grows in the Antilles.

Watering, lighting and temperature

The key to good pet care is regular hydration. The beautiful tropical lady is a fan high humidity. However, it is impossible to spray the leaves, as this procedure can provoke the appearance of brown spots. If the plant lacks moisture, for example, during the hot season, place the pot on a stand in a large basin filled with water. It is important to ensure that moisture does not touch the bottom. Expanded clay must be poured into the container. By evaporating, the water will provide required level humidity.

Tender plants should be watered with soft settled water. Excess liquid should not stagnate in the pan, they must be drained immediately. When moisturizing, you should follow a few simple recommendations:

• in the summer, it is necessary to water the soil at least 2 times a week;
• if the room where the green pet grows is very hot, daily watering is required;
• in October, when the temperature gradually decreases, watering becomes less plentiful, it is necessary to moisten the earth only when the top layer of the soil dries up;
• in winter it is required to reduce watering to a minimum;
• from the beginning of spring, the intensity of moisture should be gradually increased.

In winter, tuberous varieties of begonias hibernate. Plants should be placed in peat and completely stop moistening the soil.

Residents of a tropical climate prefer to live on well-lit window sills. It is better if flowering varieties live in an area with diffused light, and deciduous varieties in partial shade. Gentle pets will feel as comfortable as possible on the windowsills of the eastern or western windows. So that plants do not experience a shortage of light in winter, it is recommended to take care of creating artificial lighting.

The key to good pet care is regular hydration.

Begonia care also involves maintaining the optimum temperature for the bush. There should be no sudden changes, they can be detrimental to a green pet. It is desirable that in the warm season the flower lives in a room with a temperature of + 18 ... + 20 ° С. In winter, this figure should not fall below + 15 ° C.

Periodically, a pet needs to be pampered with fertilizers. During the period of active flowering, top dressing is carried out 1-2 times a week. Fertilizers with a high nitrogen content are used for deciduous varieties. They improve foliage growth but slow flowering.

Fundamentals of successful care (video)

How to transplant a flower

Begonia care after purchase involves transplanting the flower into a larger pot. Plants are usually sold in fairly small containers. Soon their roots become crowded, so care should be taken to purchase a more capacious vessel. AT further transplant should be carried out as needed, as soon as the pot becomes small again.

The optimal time to transfer a green pet to a new place of residence is the beginning of spring. The soil for begonias can be purchased at a specialized store or made independently. In the latter case, it is necessary to fill half the container with leafy soil, add black soil and peat, mixed in equal parts. At the bottom of the tank you need to put a little river sand. It is advisable to take care of good drainage. If you comply with all the conditions for preparing the soil, the flower will delight with active growth.

When transplanting, it is necessary to remove the plant from the pot with the utmost care. The roots must be carefully cleaned of peat. After that, it is recommended to briefly place the flower in water with the addition of potassium permanganate. The composition will disinfect the roots and clean them of sand residues. If rotted areas are present, they must be carefully removed.

Begonia care after purchase involves transplanting the flower into a larger pot

When transplanting, do not pour a full pot of soil. It is better to wait until the plant takes root and the earth settles. After that, you can add the missing part. After transplantation, the green pet needs abundant moisture. Another rule is the limitation of sunlight. Immediately after the transplant, you do not need to put the begonia on the windowsill. It is better if she lives away from direct sunlight for some time.

It is especially important to properly care for begonias after transplantation. During this period, the flower is the weakest, therefore, it needs diligent care. After about a month, the green pet will take root, after which you can return to the usual mode.

Reproduction methods

Begonia is so beautiful and unpretentious that any grower will definitely have a desire to have a few more marvelous bushes at home. It's easy to do. There are several ways to propagate indoor flowers, but cuttings are considered optimal.

The algorithm of actions is as follows:

1. For plant propagation leaf cuttings you need to choose a strong and healthy leaf. It should be carefully cut along the veins into several parts. It is important to ensure that each segment has 2-3 veins. All resulting specimens should be laid out on wet sand. From above, the sheets are covered with a film. Periodically, it must be removed to ventilate and moisten the sand. As soon as young leaves appear, you need to start accustoming the shoots to room air. Every day the film must be removed for 10-15 minutes, then closed again. Every day the interval should be increased.
2. reproduction stem cuttings- a method suitable for all begonias with a stem. To carry out the procedure, you must choose the best stalk. It is desirable that it has a length of at least 7-8 cm and 2-3 leaves. The lower plates should be carefully removed, the large upper ones should be cut in half. The cut point for disinfection should be treated charcoal. You can root the cuttings immediately in the soil, consisting of equal parts of leafy soil and sand. Root the stem should be up to the leaves. After planting, you need to cover the seedling with an impromptu mini-greenhouse. You can build it from a cut plastic bottle. After about a month, young leaves will appear on the handle. To accustom the plant to fresh air should also be gradual. With proper care of the flower, the first buds will appear in about a couple of months.
3. Another fairly common way to propagate begonias is to divide the bush. To resort to this method, you must carefully remove the plant from the ground and soak its rhizome in water. After that, the root system should be divided into several parts. At the same time, it is important to ensure that a sprout or bud is present on each plot. Leaves and inflorescences that have dried must be removed. Cut points must be treated with charcoal. All plots are planted in separate pots and watered abundantly.

Growing begonias from seeds

This is an uncommon breeding method. This is due to the fact that not all seeds germinate and are viable. However, the method is still used.

Seeds should be sown between December and March. The soil can be prepared independently by mixing sand, peat and leafy soil in equal proportions. Seeds must be spread over the surface of the soil and slightly pressed into the ground. At proper fit The first shoots will appear in 10-15 days.

As soon as the seedlings grow a little and get stronger, it is necessary to pick. Plants are planted in separate small pots. Around the middle of summer, green pets can already give the first buds. And by winter, the formation of a tuber occurs.

Begonia is not only beautiful, but also a useful pet

Possible pests and diseases

If you do not comply simple recommendations care, the consequences can be unpleasant: the flower will start to hurt, is able to throw off the leaves and inflorescences. Even an inexperienced grower can understand the reason for this behavior of a green pet. To do this, you need to carefully look at the flower. The following symptoms of pathologies may appear:

1. Brown tips and abundant leaf fall indicate that the flower lacks moisture. Abundant watering and humidification of the air can save the situation.
2. Pallor sheet plate- a sign that the flower is suffering from a lack of light.
3. Twisted leaves indicate too high temperature in room.
4. Too much low temperature air and excess moisture can cause fungus. To get rid of it, it is necessary to remove the affected parts of the plant as soon as possible. The flower itself should be treated with fungicides.
5. Temperature fluctuations and too dry indoor air can cause powdery mildew to appear on indoor flowers. The development of this disease is evidenced by a whitish coating that forms on the leaves. To combat the disease, the plant must be treated with a 1% aqueous solution of colloidal sulfur.

Often a pet is attacked dangerous pests. The most common invaders are aphids and spider mite. Parasites hide in reverse side leaves and gradually suck out all the juices from the flower, which causes inevitable death. To get rid of pests, you need to abundantly spray the green mass with a solution of insecticides. After careful processing, it is necessary to place the flower in a wet plastic bag for some time. This will enhance the effect of the procedure.

Begonia feels good in a lighted room, but in diffused light or in partial shade. It is best to keep it on the windowsills of the eastern and western windows, additionally highlighting it in winter.

Begonias should be watered regularly and plentifully, but drain excess water from the pan. In summer, you can water a couple of times a week, and at the peak of the heat - every day. From October, watering is needed only when the earth dries up, in winter water is needed the least until March, when you can again increase the intensity of watering.

Conditions favored by begonia

Care at home is to create high humidity and moderate temperature. Humidity can be provided by putting wet peat in a saucer or pouring pebbles and pouring water. Evaporation will give the flower the moisture it needs.

The land in which begonia is planted should be nutritious and consist of leafy soil with the addition of peat and black soil. Drainage is provided with a layer of coarse sand, then sheet soil is laid, and upper part the pots are filled with peat mixed with black soil. In spring and summer, it is time to fertilize the plant, using a complete mineral fertilizer for this.

It is necessary to transplant a flower every two or three years, when the roots no longer fit, and a new pot is needed. When transplanting, the roots must be washed and inspected, if rotten ones are found, cut them out. A plant is installed on a layer of expanded clay and coarse sand and sprinkled with soil. The first time after transplanting, it is necessary to water the begonia abundantly.

In order for the plant to bloom longer, the first female flowers must be removed. To form tubers, it is necessary to prevent flowering in the fall by removing the buds. Tubers are needed in particular for reproduction.

Begonia can be propagated vegetatively - leaves and stems, as well as tubers and seeds. Cuttings can be taken in summer or spring by taking a cutting from a stem or using a strong leaf. Planted cuttings are kept in a dark place. Rooting will take one to two months.

Reproduction by seeds is done in winter. They are laid out on the surface of the soil and pressed into it. 10-15 days later, shoots may appear, which dive and, together with the ground, are transplanted into pots. By August, young plants may begin to bloom.

By cold weather, begonia forms tubers, which are stored in the sand in winter at a temperature of 8-10 degrees Celsius. Planting takes place in the spring. The tuber is half immersed in the soil and kept in the dark for several weeks, moderately moistening. After the shoots appear, the tuber is sprinkled with earth and the pot is transferred to light and heat.

Varieties of begonia

Ordinary begonia - indoor or garden - is divided into many different types. There are also those that do not bloom, but have decorative leaves. So, royal begonia has large, up to 30 cm long leaves in the shape of hearts or spirals, like snails.

Begonia evergreen lives up to its name and blooms all year round. She has beautiful and red-green leaves, and multi-colored small flowers. Tuberous begonias are very beautiful, and ampelous varieties are used in vertical gardening: its flowering shoots descend from hanging pots.

A plant can get sick due to improper care behind him. Watch for symptoms and take action. How to care for begonia at home, you already imagine:

• the leaves turned brown along the edges and began to crumble - a clear lack of watering and moisture;
• the pallor of the leaves indicates a lack of light;
• damage by fungi - excess moisture and low temperature;
• dry air leads to powdery mildew.

Under these conditions, aphids and spider mites also breed. It is necessary to fight pests with special compounds.

Begonia: the basics of successful care.

Now houseplants, which include begonias, are in great demand and popularity. It can often be found in flower growers as decorative ornament at home, especially during its flowering. A little knowledge and sufficient attention will surely bear fruit and the plant will delight its owner with multi-colored inflorescences for a long period.

Begonia belongs to the genus Begonia, which has more than 800 plant species. Begonias are native to the tropics and subtropics of Asia and Africa.

All kinds of this indoor flower can be divided by 2 large groups: flowering and deciduous varieties. hallmark the last are the colorful leaves various shapes. Among flowering plants distinguish such popular in home floriculture varieties:

• Tuberous begonia. The plant variety is distinguished by a variety of inflorescences. Petals can be of different colors, ranging from white to dark red. Inflorescences come in two colors at the same time and reach a diameter of 5 to 15 cm. In appearance, double flowers are very similar to roses and peonies.
• Begonia ever flowering. The ever-flowering flower variety is the most common, it can be grown both in flower beds and indoors. In apartments, this variety can produce inflorescences throughout the year. They are collected from small flowers of red, pink or white.
• Royal begonia. Distinguished and valued for the beauty of the leaves. They may be different colors and reach a length of up to 40 cm. At the same time, foliage can take on several shades, and even with a border of a different color along the edge.

Begonia - the nuances of growing

In the first days after buying a plant, you need to pay more attention to it so that it decorates the house and has a healthy look for several years.

To grow begonias at home, you should follow some rules and nuances:

1. Create favorable conditions for active growth flower.
2. Try to protect it from drafts and wind.
3. Ensure optimal parameters environment in winter.
4. Try to pick a flower appropriate place so as not to disturb him.

Begonia care at home

Home care for begonia is not too complicated and consists in maintaining a comfortable temperature regime sufficient light and humidity. In order for the plant to feel comfortable at home, it is necessary to create conditions close to natural for it.

Optimal conditions of detention

• Light. The plant must be placed on a windowsill with large quantity Sveta. But it is worth protecting it from direct sunlight, especially during flowering, otherwise a burn will form on the leaves. To avoid this, you need to create some shade with curtains or blinds.
• Day length. A decoratively growing flower needs daylight hours lasting up to 12-14 hours. In autumn and winter, it needs to arrange additional lighting with special lamps.
• Temperature. Optimal indicator 15-22 degrees. In winter, a favorable temperature will be 19 degrees. Strong temperature fluctuations and drops below 14 degrees should not be allowed, otherwise the plant may shed its foliage or die.
• Humidity. It is necessary to organize this indicator at the level of 80 percent. To increase it, you can put a container filled with water next to the pot. Or you can even put a pot with a plant on the aquarium.

Important! It is impossible to irrigate and spray the crown of the plant, otherwise spots will appear on the leaves.

Watering and fertilizing a flower

It is necessary to water the plant as the earthen clod dries.

• During the hot summer months, watering should be done daily.
• You can not over-moisten the soil so that the roots do not rot. Tuberous begonias are especially susceptible to rot.
• In autumn and winter, watering should be reduced to 1-2 times a week.
• It should be remembered that begonia has its own requirements for water - it must be clean, pre-settled and at room temperature.
• During watering, do not allow water to get on the leaves.

Top dressing must begin during the formation of inflorescences. Suitable for liquid complex fertilizers. They are applied along with water during irrigation. It is necessary to feed begonias in spring and summer 2 times a month. In winter, the plant does not need fertilizer.

How to care for begonias in winter?

In winter, many plants fall into a dormant period, including the begonia flower.

To keep it in the winter and create suitable conditions, the following rules must be followed:

1. Equip additional lighting to provide daylight hours up to 14-15 hours. With a lack of light, the stems of the plant are stretched.
2. Provide optimal temperature conditions(18-19 degrees) and prevent the temperature from falling below 16 degrees.
3. Reduce watering to 1 time per week.
4. You can not put a pot with a plant near heating radiators.
5. For tuberous begonias in winter, reduce the humidity so that its tubers do not rot.
6. When yellowing leaves appear, you need to inspect the plant and remove the affected dry parts.

When fulfilling all the rules for caring for a houseplant in winter, with the onset spring period begonia will delight the owner with its flowering, which will last until the very end of summer.

Houseplant transplant

It is necessary to transplant the plant as the pot of the root system fills up. Begonia has no special requirements for the soil. Can buy ready ground or cook it yourself. To do this, you need to mix leafy soil, sand, peat and humus in equal parts.

1. The pot must be selected larger than the previous one in size by 3-4 cm in diameter. At the bottom you need to organize good drainage so that moisture does not accumulate there and the roots do not rot.
2. Transplantation is best done with the advent of spring. The frequency of transplants is 1 time in 2-3 years.
3. Before the procedure, the flower should be shed well to make it easier to remove it from the ground.
4. Excess soil must be removed from the roots and damaged parts removed.
5. To prevent diseases of the root system, you can place the plant in a weak solution of potassium permanganate for 30 minutes.
6. In a new container, you need to carefully place the plant without damaging the roots. Sprinkle lightly with earth and compact it.

The first month after transplanting begonias, more attention should be paid. Provide more light, abundant daily watering and a temperature of 22-23 degrees. It is advisable to observe special conditions until the plant takes root and begins to grow actively.

Reproduction of begonia

Like many plants, begonia (begonia) is able to reproduce different ways. It is best to breed in the spring or in the summer, during the active growth of the flower.

The main methods of breeding begonias:

• stem cuttings;
• seeds;
• division of the sheet;
• division of the rhizome;
• division of tubers.

Cutting is suitable for all types of begonia and is the easiest and most convenient way breeding.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Slice sharp knife cuttings 10 cm long, so that each has 2-3 leaves.
2. You can place the blanks in clean, settled water until the roots form. After, they are planted in a pot prepared with soil.
3. It is allowed to plant the stalk immediately in a container with soil. Then from above it is necessary to cover it with polyethylene.
4. After new leaves appear, the bag is removed and the stalk is transplanted to a permanent place.

The propagation method using leaf division is suitable if you want to get more planting material.

• To do this, a large sheet is cut into several parts with a sharp knife so that each has a central vein.
• After dividing, the parts should be placed in a box on top of the soil, slightly pressing down. You can deepen them a little into the ground.
• From above the box is covered with a film or glass. There are daily airings.
• When the seedlings take root, they are transplanted to a permanent place.

The seed method is more troublesome. Sowing must begin in early February, so that the seedlings have time to grow and get stronger by the winter period.

• First, boxes with soil are prepared, on the surface of which the seeds are evenly distributed.
• Sprinkle them on top thin layer(about 0.2 cm) of the earth.
• The boxes are covered with foil or glass.
• Every day you should moisten the soil from the spray gun so as not to “wash” the seeds, and also ventilate them.
• When shoots appear, the film must be removed.

To propagate a flower by dividing the rhizome, it is necessary to remove it from the ground, divide the roots into several parts with a sharp knife and plant them in containers prepared with the ground. And for tuberous types of begonias, a method of reproduction by dividing tubers is suitable. It starts with the onset of the spring period. The tuber must be cut into several parts so that each has 1 kidney. Tuber pieces are planted in separate pots.

Pest and disease control

In room conditions, like many plants, begonias can be exposed to diseases and pests.

The most common diseases are:

• gray mold;
• powdery mildew;
• root rot.

In the fight against diseases, it is necessary to treat the plant with fungicides, reduce humidity and reduce the amount of watering.

The main pests include:

• whitefly;
• false shield;
• spider mite;
• nematodes;
• thrips.

When insect pests appear on the bush, it is necessary to treat it with insecticides and remove all affected parts. Otherwise, you will have to get rid of the flower so that pests do not populate healthy plants.

The main problems in growing

When growing begonias indoors, some problems may arise if the agrotechnical requirements for caring for it are not followed.

1. There is a decay of the roots and stems due to frequent watering.
2. If the leaves fall in winter, then the temperature in the room is low.
3. Ever flowering begonia stopped blooming, slowed down growth? This indicates insufficient feeding with nutrients.
4. Dry and wilted leaves talk about dry air and insufficient humidity.
5. The leaves turn yellow if there is not enough watering and the temperature in the room is low.

In order to avoid problems with growing the discussed indoor flower, you need to give it a little time and care. Then he will delight the whole year with his flowering and multi-colored colors of inflorescences and leaves. At the slightest appearance of pests, it is necessary to act urgently so that the plant does not die.