Begonia home flowers. Begonia: home care - important points (photo)

The begonia family is the most diverse and numerous in the entire vast and densely populated kingdom. indoor plants. Begonia is a kind of station wagon. It has both wonderful flowers and incredibly decorative leaves. It can revive a large-scale hall and decorate bookshelf or holiday table. After all, this plant family combines crumbs that fit in a glass, and giant bushes that occupy entire walls. Begonia can grow all year round on the windowsill and bloom in the summer in the garden. Man has been intimately familiar with this queen of flowers for more than 300 years. And until now, flower growers do not get tired of admiring beautiful begonia. Caring for a plant is not difficult at all.

Difficulties in describing begonias

The first scientist to describe begonia was Michel Begon. It was his name that immortalized the incredible tropical flower. A new plant was found at the end of the 17th century in the Antilles. Then an ever-flowering relative of the Antillean begonia was found in the forests of Brazil, in India - royal, and the first tuberous species is of South American origin.

At first, begonia was bred only in winter gardens and greenhouses. But the breeders were so carried away by the many-sided and supple plant that they somehow imperceptibly brought out about 2 thousand hybrid varieties. Among them are those that can live in the garden, and those who are registered on the windowsill. There are begonias that bloom all year round, and without flowers at all, completely falling asleep in winter, and evergreen, miniature and huge, ampelous and upright. As they say, there is a begonia for every, even the most demanding taste. But all, sometimes not very similar begonias, have several common features:

• the presence of same-sex flowers located in groups (usually 1 female and 2 male);
• fleshy stems;
• asymmetrical leaves.

Professionals have adopted the classification of begonias according to the type of root:

• tuberous, they bloom beautifully and spend the dormant period in the form of a tuber (begonia elatior);
• with a thickened rhizome that is easily divided, these are species with variegated leaves (royal begonia);
• bushy plants that do not reproduce by dividing the root (evergreen begonia).

This method of classification is complicated and not always convenient. In amateur floriculture, it is customary to divide begonias according to the type of use of plants: decorative flowering potted, decorative leaf and decorative flowering indoor.

Decorative flowering pot begonias usually have a tuberous root, the stems can be straight and drooping in ampelous forms. The leaves are juicy, often one-color, serrated or wavy along the edge. These begonias are bred to see wonderful flowering.

Flowers are striking in color: different shades of white, yellow, pink, red, orange - there are two-color varieties. The shape is also varied: simple, semi-double, terry. The peculiarity of this group is that after flowering, the plant is either thrown away or sent to rest: the tuber is dug up and stored.

Decorative leaf begonias will not please with flowers. But beautiful plentiful foliage will decorate your house all year round. And the choice of leaves is huge. Size - from one and a half to 35 cm.

The shape is an asymmetric heart, an elongated oval, like a grape leaf or a star. The texture is smooth and glossy, matte, with hairs or warty. Variegated coloring includes the whole spectrum of greens, red, yellow and orange colors with transitions and halftones, spots and speckles.

Begonia leaves contain phytoncides. They purify and revitalize the air, destroy harmful microorganisms. Begonia is especially effective against staphylococcus aureus.

Decorative flowering begonias are evergreens that combine the beauty of leaves and bright, though not as magnificent as those of tuberous, flowering. These are tall bushes (up to one and a half meters) or ampelous forms. The beauty of plants is that they do not need to rest, but grow and often bloom all year round.

Begonia is not the most capricious flower, it is easy to care for her if you know her habits. And they are not so exotic for a Tropican. The only difficulty is fiddling with tubers.

Begonia improves immunity and performance, and also helps relieve fatigue. This flower is planted not only at home, but also in the office. Begonia activates and enhances mental activity.

And I must also say that begonias do not belong to long-lived plants. They will not live next to you for 10 years, like a ficus or a palm tree, they are too tender. But on the other hand, begonia reproduces easily and willingly. So you can always continue the life of your favorite flower in its offspring.

Some members of the Begonia family

Begonia is almost a thousand full-fledged species and two thousand hybrids. And the selection continues, every year new varieties of this tropical plant appear. With more lush flowers, brighter leaves and improved performance. But there are basic varieties that have already proven themselves well in cultivation. With many of them, for example, with royal begonia, most of us have known since childhood. We will tell you more about the most famous varieties of this plant:

• Begonia royal - typical representative ornamental leaf group, originally from India. The plant is distinguished by large (about 30 cm) brightly colored leaves. The color changes from deep green to red-brown. sheet plate characteristic shape: asymmetrical heart or snail. Edge with uneven notches. Hybrids of royal begonia differ in color: there are red-yellow, mint-green, chocolate-brown leaves. The flowers are inconspicuous, they are recommended to be removed.
• Among the variegated begonias there are ampelous, for example, imperial. Its medium-sized (10 cm) leaves have a red underside and a velvety green-white upper side. This begonia does not bloom, a variety is bred because of the abundant and beautiful foliage.
• The ever flowering begonia is a rooted and bushy variety. It is cultivated as a garden and house plant. At home, this begonia is ready to bloom all year round. She has small (5 cm) shiny rounded leaves. Flowers up to 2.5 cm in diameter, simple or double, red, pink, white color.
• Begonia coral refers to upright, evergreen and root varieties. Its shoots grow up to 2 meters and often need support. The leaves are elongated, white-silvery spots are scattered across the green field. The plant blooms all year long, a panicle of 30-60 small coral-colored flowers blooms on the peduncle.
• Tuberous begonias have simple or double flowers, at least 5 cm in size. They resemble a rose, carnation or peony in shape. They can be white, pink, yellow, red or orange, and also combine these colors. The leaves are brittle with a medium-sized serrated edge (from 10 to 25 cm).
• The ampelous variety of tuberous begonia is drooping, it has thin and long (up to half a meter) hanging stems and peduncles. They bloom in tassels of white, pink and orange rather large (5 cm each) flowers. This species needs rest after a period of growth. above-ground part dies off.
• Another ampelous variety - gray-leaved begonia - belongs to evergreens. Its red-pink flowers are much smaller (1.5 cm), but bloom in winter, when the tuberous begonia does not grow.
• Begonia high (elatior) - tuberous hybrid, can only grow in the house. The stems of the plant are thin and fragile reddish in color. The leaves are shiny, rounded. Elatior blooms in autumn and winter. The flowers are large, about 5 cm. The petals can be white, yellow, red or orange, some varieties combine two colors.
• Begonia Borias belongs to the Elatior hybrids. Her bush blooms with double flowers. The color of the petals is two-tone. Pale pink or red-cherry color is replaced by a white edging from the center of the inflorescence to the edges.

What are the varieties of begonias: elatior, coral, ampelous and others (photo)

Begonia high (elatior)

Video: Conditions and care for begonia

Conditions for different begonias (table)

Such a variety of begonias and conditions need different ones. But still there are a few general requirements for all forms of this plant. Begonias, without exception, love warmth. Therefore, they take root well in our heated apartments. Begonias will prefer medium intensity, diffused lighting. Extremes (shade or bright sun) are not for these beauties. But they want more humidity. Just do not try to spray the begonia, she will not like it.

Planting rules: from choosing a pot to subsequent care

Variegated varieties of begonias are transplanted every year. In a cramped pot, bright foliage becomes pale. Evergreen begonias should be relocated as needed when the roots have grown into the drainage holes. And tuberous plants are planted in a new substrate after a dormant period.

Begonias quickly grow juicy greenery and bloom profusely. This requires loose and rich soil, it should be neutral or slightly acidified. And also important good drainage, give him about a quarter of the volume of the pot. Approximate soil compositions:

• ready soil for begonias;
• mixture of two parts leaf ground and one each peat and black soil;
• into two shares of dark peat, one each - soddy and leafy soil, as well as coarse sand.

The soil substrate must be sterilized to destroy pests and infections. To do this, calcine it in the oven or spill it with a weak solution of potassium permanganate (half a gram of powder per 1 liter).

A pot for variegated and evergreen varieties is better to choose a ceramic one. It's heavier and won't tip over when the plant gets big. In addition, ceramic is a breathable and porous material, which means that moisture will not stagnate at the roots. And this is very like begonias. For ampelous plants pick up hanging baskets or planters. Choose a pot for tuberous begonia from any material. Its size determines how large the plant will be. But do not take a container larger than 20 cm in diameter. So, step by step instructions:

1. Transplantation of begonias, except for tuberous ones, is usually done in the spring.
2. Prepare the soil, drainage and pot, it must be rinsed with boiling water.
3. Lay drainage at the bottom (expanded clay, pebbles, polystyrene, broken brick), on top of a little soil substrate.
4. Carefully remove the begonia from the old pot, examine the roots. If there are rotten ones, remove them, and sprinkle the slices with charcoal.
5. Place the plant in a new pot, spreading the roots.
6. Pour the soil and lightly tamp it.
7. Water the plant with softened water. Put in a shady place.

Do not rush to transplant a newly purchased flowering begonia. So you will shorten the flowering time. Transplantation is needed only when the roots of the flower look out of the drainage holes. Pick up a pot a couple of centimeters larger than before.

How to plant a tuberous begonia?

1. Scald the container and sterilize the soil and drainage.
2. Lay a drainage layer on the bottom.
3. Fill the container with soil about three-quarters, moisten it.
4. Place the tuber upside down on moist soil and cover it dry so that the top of the tuber is half above the ground.
5. Press the tuber a little into the ground, tamp it around.
6. Place the pot in a cool dark room.
7. Water sparingly, but do not overwater.
8. Shoots should appear in a few weeks.
9. When sprouts appear, completely cover the tuber with earth.
10. Move the pot to a lighted warm place.

Video: Transshipment (transplantation) of begonias - master class

How to care for a plant at home

In the care of all varieties of begonias, there are general principles. For example, beautiful Tropican women are afraid to “wet their feet”, especially in a cool room. In other words, plants do not tolerate excess moisture at the roots. From this, tender begonia can seriously get sick, juicy greens are prone to rot.

Begonias are not good with diets. Blooming beauties spend a lot of energy and do not mind eating. Good nutrition is simply necessary for evergreen begonias, which bloom almost without interruption.

Watering and fertilizing: how much, how and why

During growth and flowering, begonias want to drink a lot. In spring and summer, water them twice a week when it is very dry and hot - daily. In autumn, reduce the volume and frequency of watering, and in winter limit yourself to a minimum.

But even in summer, make sure that from watering to watering, the earthen substrate dries out about 1 cm deep. Pour water carefully, trying not to get on the stems. And in tuberous begonias, moisture should not fall on the tuber. It has a cup-shaped shape, water can accumulate in this recess. As a result, the rhizome rots easily. According to some flower growers, begonias will benefit from a slight moisture deficit. They believe that it is necessary to water the plant when the leaves are slightly wilted.

Water for begonias should be lukewarm and soft. After watering, be sure to drain the excess from the pan.

Actively growing and flowering begonias love top dressing

From a lack of nutrients, the bright begonia becomes poorer, weaker and wither. This feature was taken into account by fertilizer manufacturers; in stores you can find nutritional complexes designed specifically for begonias. But fit and universal fertilizers for flowering or ornamental plants. Choose those with more phosphorus. An actively growing begonia should be fed about once a week, sometimes twice. With the advent of autumn, for most varieties of top dressing, it should be reduced, and completely stopped by winter. But if the begonia blooms in winter, do not leave it without food.

How to make an unpretentious beauty bloom

Begonias (especially tuberous ones) have amazing flowers. They may look like roses or carnations, fuchsias or violets. How to ensure that flowering becomes lush and long?

Flower growers know one secret: when the buds have just appeared and slightly grown up, it is necessary to remove the female inflorescences, and leave the male ones. They are easy to distinguish. The male ones are larger and double, and the female ones are non-double with a three-lobed seed box located on the pedicel behind the bud, close to it. As flower growers say, such an operation significantly improves flowering.

But sometimes the begonia refuses to bloom at all or picks up buds and drops them. What is the reason? There may be several problems:

• begonias little light;
• low air humidity;
• too high or, conversely, low temperature;
• temperature fluctuations, drafts;
• hard irrigation water;
• nutritional deficiency;
• the plant did not rest during the dormant period;
• It's time to rejuvenate the begonia.

Analyze the conditions of your pet, if you find errors, correct them.

Be sure to remove wilted inflorescences. So you prolong flowering and make it more magnificent. Remove old spoiled leaves as well, thanks to such cleaning, the begonia will grow more greenery.

But it happens that flowering must be artificially stopped. If the grower wants to get quality tubers by next year, new buds that appear in September should be removed. Then the tuber of the plant will gain strength.

By the way, until recently it was believed that a faded tuberous begonia should be sent to the trash. It looks like she's no good anymore. Now flower growers have learned how to successfully save tubers, arranging a dormant period for them, and then plant them again and enjoy flowering.

Rooted evergreen and ornamental begonias during the dormant period retain variegated leaves and sometimes continue to bloom. Just by observing the plant, you can see that it has slowed down growth. At this time, it is necessary to limit watering and stop fertilizing. Although, if the begonia blooms wildly, it is worth feeding it with fertilizer, it is applied no more than once a month. During the dormant period, the plant literally wants rest. It does not need to be disturbed, rearranged or rotated. Surround the begonia with warmth and wait for spring.

But tuberous begonias after flowering fall into deep hibernation. It doesn't have to be in the winter. Modern varieties can bloom in the cold season, and rest in spring or autumn. At this time, the tubers are stored in peat without watering. You can, of course, just throw away the faded plant, but try to revive the begonia. How to save it:

1. When the green part of the plant began to die off, limit watering, a little moisture is enough.
2. Wait for the above-ground part to dry, cut it off. Nutrients have already passed into the tuber.
3. Hold the tuber in the soil for about half a month.
4. Remove the tuber from the soil, wrap it with sphagnum moss or peat. It can be buried in disinfected sand.
5. Store the tuber at a temperature of +3 to +5ºC, the humidity should be slightly higher than in the room. Suitable places- cellar or refrigerator (compartment for fresh vegetables).
6. If the wintering went well, after 2-3 months the begonia will make it clear that it is ready to be reborn to a new life. Eyes-shoots will appear on the tuber.
7. Plant the tuber in a nutrient substrate.

If the tuber is large and has several healthy eye buds on it, you can breed before planting and get new begonias.

Video: Peace and awakening of tuberous begonia

Care Mistakes, Diseases and Pests: Causes and Solutions

Begonia is a rather delicate plant. It can not be attributed to very patient and strong flowers. The reaction to neglecting the rules of care will be sad: the begonia can get sick, drop leaves, lose buds, or be attacked by pests.

Consider typical problems and how to fix them.

Table: Begonia health problems, treatments and prevention

Video: Treatment of sick begonias

How to propagate indoor begonia?

There are several ways to get new begonias. Tuberous reproduce by dividing the tuber. Ornamental and evergreen by cuttings of leaves and stems. Constantly flowering varieties can also be grown from seed.

Among the popular plants among flower growers, begonia stands out, attracting attention with its bright and lush bloom. Caring for begonias at home is not difficult, but requires attention. To give the interior brightness and liveliness, to create an atmosphere of comfort, this indoor flower fits perfectly.

Conditions for growing begonias

Those who have encountered the cultivation of begonias know that there are more than 900 species of this plant. In order for an indoor flower to open in all its glory, it is necessary proper care, which will differ depending on the type of plant. It is worth noting that, depending on the care, begonia can bloom both in summer and in winter period. Decorative deciduous species differ in the shape of the leaves and colors, the flowers themselves are less attractive, in contrast to the decorative flowering species. As a rule, begonia grows in a pot at home. It is best to place flowers away from heat sources. Optimal conditions can be created in a separate corner allocated for plants. Room temperature is optimal for growing a flower. AT summer period the indicator should not exceed + 22˚С, in winter it should not be lower than +15 ... + 18˚С.

Begonias do not like direct sunlight: the lighting should be plentiful, but diffused, for example, you can create partial shade. Do not place the flower in places where a draft is possible. Such conditions can lead not only to wilting, but also to the death of the plant. One of important conditions when growing begonias is to create a dormant period, which is necessary after intensive flowering for rest. If the care of the begonia is inappropriate, then this will affect its condition. This can manifest itself in the form of wilting of the leaves, the absence of flowering for a long time. Therefore, you can not be surprised why the plant does not bloom.

How to care for begonia (video)

Watering and humidity

Irrigation will vary depending on the time of year. For example, in winter, begonia does not need a lot of moisture; in summer, watering should be done more often. The condition of the soil must be monitored: too wet, as well as too dry, it should not be. With high humidity, the root system can simply rot. During the flowering period, the plant must be watered more often. When the inflorescences fall off, you can switch to the previous moisturizing regimen. “Water procedures” are resorted to when the top layer of soil dries out by 1-2 cm.

As for specific data on the number of irrigations, it is impossible to give them, since they depend both on the time of year and on air quality. Your flower will let you know when it was created for it. comfortable conditions and when the watering regime needs to be changed. Particular attention should be paid to the quality of the water used for watering begonias. tap water not recommended because it contains a large number of chlorine. To reduce it, water must be boiled and passed through a filter, or simply let it settle. Watering the plant should be done no more than once a day and it is better to do it at the same time. In summer, moistening is carried out every day, in winter a couple of times a week. So that the plants do not experience stress, water should be used warm water. Do not spray begonia leaves as they may change color.

The optimal air humidity when caring for a flower is 60%, regardless of where the plant is located - outdoors or indoors. You can achieve the required humidity by placing containers with water next to the begonia; you can use a humidifier in the house. It is important to know that begonias have a negative attitude towards water on flowers and leaves. This leads to the appearance of brown spots, the leaves gradually dry out and fall off. Watering should be done exclusively under a bush or in a pan.

Feeding begonias

To properly care for begonia, periodically pay attention to feeding the plant. Nutrients prolong the life of the plant, which not only saves it from diseases and pests, but also pleases us with beautiful flowering. In addition, additional nutrition is necessary for the development of young shoots. In order for the fertilizer to be suitable, it must have the inscription “for indoor plants”, and attention should also be paid to the composition. Begonia needs elements such as phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, but the content of chlorine must be avoided.

To date, picking up the necessary fertilizer is not a problem, since their choice is very diverse. In addition, special formulations are offered that are designed specifically for this plant. Separately, it is worth paying attention to the period of fertilizing. For example, there are fertilizers that are applied when buds are set or in the second half of flowering. If you take on average, then begonia is fertilized once a month, but if necessary, it can be done more often by reducing the concentration of the solution. For decorative deciduous species, nitrogen fertilizing is used, which ensures the growth of leaves, but they have a bad effect on flowering. Decorative flowering species, on the contrary, do not need such an element, since it slows down flowering.

What will happen to begonia if top dressing is excluded? The leaves of the plant will become pale, faded, the bush will take on a nondescript look. The buds become small, and their number decreases. The flowering period in this case is short, because the flowers dry quickly and fly around. But this does not mean that plants need to be filled with fertilizers. An excess of nutrients will not bring benefits either.

Fundamentals of successful care (video)

How to care for begonias during the dormant period?

Any plant that grows indoors and is characterized by abundant flowering, requires rest. One of these is begonia, which requires a slowdown in growth and a dormant period that falls in the winter. The process of caring for a plant has its own nuances and depends on its type. Tuberous begonia is the most demanding for care. It is necessary to ensure the gradual entry of the plant into a dormant period: first, watering is reduced, top dressing is stopped, then shoots and leaves are removed. Only after these steps is the flower transferred to a room where the air temperature is maintained within +15 ... + 16˚С. Watering should not be completely stopped, they are reduced to 2-3 times a month. Bringing the plant out of dormancy should also be gradual.

If we consider the ampelous begonia, then it is somewhat easier to care for. The flower does not need to be gradually brought out of dormancy; pruning is also not necessary. It will be enough to move the pot with the plant to a bright and cool place, while reducing the amount of watering and fertilizing. special care does not require a hybrid type of begonia - Elatior, it is enough to reduce top dressing and watering. The air temperature should be maintained within +15...+17˚С. Many flower growers use this variety as an annual plant, replacing old specimens with new ones. As you could understand, some types of begonias are more demanding for a dormant period, but in any case, it can be provided. Living in a private house, the flower is transferred to the basement. If we are talking about an apartment, then the plant can be moved to the entrance.

Transplantation and reproduction of begonias

For transplanting a plant, the soil can be either purchased or prepared independently. If you are an adherent of doing everything with your own hands, then in this case you will need:

• pour a drainage layer of sand on the bottom of the pot;
• fill the pot halfway with leafy soil;
• fill the rest of the container with a mixture of black soil and peat in equal proportions.

It is important to prepare the soil correctly, the growth and health of the plant will depend on this. If the question is how to properly care for begonia, then you need to know that the plant needs a periodic transplant. This is evidenced by the roots sticking out of the drainage holes. The transplant is carried out in early spring. For begonias, a large container is selected, the plant is carefully removed from the pot, the roots are cleaned of soil and disinfected in a solution of potassium permanganate. After this procedure, the dead roots are trimmed.

The begonia flower reproduces in several ways:

• leaf cuttings;
• stem;
• dividing the bush.

Each type of begonia has its own characteristics of reproduction, and in order for the plant to take root, they must be taken into account. Consider transplantation and reproduction using the example of a tuberous species. The sequence of actions is as follows:

1. In autumn, begonia tubers are taken out of the ground.
2. Cut off the leaves.
3. Clean the root system from the soil.
4. The tuber is placed in peat to prevent drying.
5. The temperature should be maintained within + 10˚С.

By the end of the dormant period, the tuber is planted in the ground or in a large pot. If we consider the propagation of tuberous begonia by seeds, then this process is rather troublesome. In order for this species to bloom from seeds, they must be sown in December. It is necessary to prepare light soil and ensure constant spraying. Seedlings should appear two weeks after sowing. These sprouts are used as seedling material. To do this, they dive and planted in the ground. Flowering should be expected in 4-5 months.

Some growers, usually beginners, are interested in the question of how to care for begonia after purchase? After the flower is purchased, it must be transplanted, because in the store it is in the soil intended for transportation. Such soil is not able to provide normal nutrition. The procedure is performed a few weeks after purchase. During this time, begonia adapts to new conditions. If the plant blooms, then you need to wait for the end of this period.

How and when to prune begonias?

If indoor flowers such as begonias are not cut or pinched, then the plants will quickly lose their attractiveness: they will stretch out, the stem will become bare, the flowers and leaves will become small. To obtain a lush crown, it is necessary to form a begonia as early as possible. The procedure is carried out in the spring in the following order:

1. When a young plant reaches a height of 7-8 cm, pinch the top, which will stimulate the growth of lateral processes.
2. When side shoots reach 10 cm, they cut the top. After the development of new branches, the formation of the bush stops.
3. Subsequent care comes down to pruning or removing overgrown or excess shoots.

If the formation of begonias is too late, you may not have time to form decorative look plant. In this case, you need to perform a re-rooting. It is worth noting that pinching and pruning not only allow you to get an attractive crown, but also positively affect flowering, rejuvenate an adult bush. For pruning, you must use a sharp and clean knife, which will prevent infection. To avoid rotting of sections, they are processed with crushed charcoal.

Diseases and pests of begonias

Quite often, at high humidity, begonia is exposed to such a disease as powdery mildew. To prevent the development of the disease in a timely manner, it is necessary to inspect the lower leaves and the core of the plant, since these parts of the bush are most susceptible to both powdery mildew and rot. If a disease is detected, it is necessary to reduce the number of waterings and immediately remove the affected parts of the plant, which will prevent the development of the fungus throughout the flower. If the begonia sheds leaves and buds, then this indicates improper care: it is necessary to increase the humidity of the air and observe the irrigation regime. When observing the pale color of the leaves, you need to improve the lighting mode. If the temperature is low and the humidity is excessive, then the begonia can be affected by gray rot, which is a mold on the surface of the leaves. The affected areas are removed, and the bush is treated with fungicides.

From the above, it is clear how to care for begonia at home, what points you need to pay attention to for the normal growth and development of the plant, and to maintain it in a healthy state. The flower responds very well to proper care, and it does not take much time to devote to this process: a few minutes a day are enough, and the begonia will thank you with lush flowering and chic foliage.

Begonia is a houseplant that blooms not only in summer, but also in winter. It is both a completely herbaceous plant (up to 3 cm high) and a tall, dense shrub. Decorative deciduous species have very beautiful, developed foliage, of various sizes and shades of green. The plant can have either one large or many small leaves. At the same time, their flowers are not expressive and small.

A characteristic feature is the asymmetry of the sheet, one side is always less than a second. Blooming types of begonias, on the contrary, have large, bright flowers with a range of various shades. warm color. In shape, they can be ordinary and terry, resembling roses. Thanks to various crossings, today a huge number of species of this beauty are known.

Types and varieties of begonias

- does not have a stem, and the leaves grow directly from the rhizome on long legs. Propagated by leaf division and cuttings. This type is used to decorate window sills and balconies (loggias). Among the most popular types are the following:

The leaves reach 30 cm in height (adult shoots), heart-shaped, asymmetrical, have an unusual, heterogeneous color, red, brown and green. Flowers are removed from this plant, they are small and their presence slows down the growth of leaves, and it is the leaves that are the main focus of this species.

Masonic or Mason's begonia on a light green heart-shaped leaf, a dark green pattern in the form of a five-fingered cross is drawn. It looks very unusual. The length of the leaves is about 15-20 cm.

metallica or metal begonia branching bushes of this species, reach one and a half meters in height. The stems are reddish, and the leaves (10-15 cm) are dark green with reddish veins and a metallic sheen. It grows all year round, but is more active in summer and spring.

– undersized plant with bright pink flowers, blooms late.

It has a pink stem and large sharp, finger-like, green with light veins, leaves. Reminds me of hogweed leaves.

- has a thick stem covered with red hairs. The leaves are large with serrated edges. The plant reaches a meter in height.

- a small plant in the form of a bush (20-25 cm). The leaves are small, dark green with light spots.

Leaves unusual shape with velvet surface. They are dark green almost black.

- has a cranked stem, somewhat reminiscent of a bamboo trunk. Reproduction occurs by cuttings, seeds and shoots (from the top). Such flowers are more suitable for home growing because they thrive best indoors. Some of the types:

It has a long flowering period, for which it gained its popularity. It has a glossy leaf surface, green or reddish tint. The flowers are small: white, red and pink tint. It can be propagated from seeds and grown both in the garden and at home. Indoor begonia can delight its owners with flowering almost all year round. Periodically, it is transplanted by cuttings (every three years), as over time it loses its attractiveness.

- a large plant with rich red inflorescences that grow in dense bunches. The leaves are smooth, glossy, oval in shape.

- enough large view, leaves 10-15 cm long, have white spots. The flowers are bright pink.

It differs from others in small, decorative leaves and small flowers hanging in the form of mushrooms. The flowers are bright red. Blooms from December to March.

– ideal decoration of personal plots, gardens and parks. It blooms from June to October, and in closed greenhouses (winter gardens, greenhouses) until the first frost. Dislikes drafts and strong winds and is also afraid of direct sunlight.

It differs from other members of the family in the presence of a large tuberous rhizome, from which large translucent stems grow with heart-shaped leaves with a slightly fleecy surface. Inflorescences of various colors. You can find the following types:

It has curly flowers and well-branched, slightly inclined shoots. They are used in landscape design to decorate various hanging structures.

Ampel begonia has an advantage over others, in continuous flowering. It is hung in flowerpots, from which a large number of inflorescences hang tightly fitting a stem 20-40 cm long. It can be white, raspberry, orange, yellow, and sometimes two-tone.

The flowers are up to 25 cm in diameter.

Among garden and home begonias, there are species that are used only in indoor floriculture, for example, begonia elatior . The tuberous hybrid has rather fragile shoots of a reddish tint that need additional support. White, pink, orange, yellow, red and their various shades (usually two-tone), inflorescences (6-7 cm in diameter) bloom at any time of the year. Leaves with a glossy surface, rounded shape. The bush reaches 30-35 cm.

The height of the bush is about half a meter. Dark green leaves, wavy along the edges (7-10 cm). Flowers: white, pink and red.

A characteristic feature of this continuously flowering plant is a delicate flower with a wavy petal shape, white with a pink border and a bright yellow core.

Begonia home care

The plant is quite photophilous, flowering species especially need light. But direct sunlight must be avoided, otherwise burns will appear on the leaves.

Therefore, they should be shaded on the street, and put on the eastern or western windows in the apartment, and in hot summer days hide deeper into the room, or protect windows with special paper or film. Rotate the pot from time to time, changing the direction of lighting the flower. Comfortable can be called a temperature of 20-24 ° C in summer and not lower than 15 ° C.

Watering begonias

Since begonia is a tropical plant by origin, it loves high humidity. You can not spray the leaves, otherwise they will begin to deteriorate (covered with brown spots). Therefore, if the plant lacks moisture (for example, in hot weather), put it in a large pan on a stand and pour water (so that it does not touch the bottom of the pot) and pour some expanded clay into it. Evaporating, the water will provide the necessary moisture around the flower.

Watering requires abundant, settled water, but do not allow water to be retained in the pan. The irrigation regime is regulated by the season, as soon as the top layer of soil (1.5-2 cm) dries up, it is watered. In winter, watering is sharply reduced, and tuberous species that hibernate are not watered at all, but placed in peat.

Fertilizers for begonias

Top dressing is carried out 1-2 times a week during the period of active flowering. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen are used for deciduous begonias, as they improve leaf growth but slow flowering.

Begonia transplant at home

Transplantation is carried out as needed, for example, if the flower has become cramped in a pot, it can be moved to a more spacious one. A favorable time for transplantation is the beginning of spring.

The plant is taken out of the pot, carefully freed from the old earth (a huge mistake to move the flower to a new pot with the old earth and sprinkle with new). Care must be taken not to damage the roots and stems. To clean sand, you can use a light solution of potassium permanganate, lowering the roots there for a couple of minutes.

After that, they will become noticeable weak spots(if there are rots, then they should be cut off). The cleaned plant is placed in a new substrate. Watering after transplanting is frequent. The earth is not poured to the top, it is necessary to wait until the roots dry out, and then fill it up.

You should not expose only the transplanted begonia immediately to the sun (the flower needs time to adapt, about a month). In addition, the begonia is cut a little to form a new, fresh crown.

soil for begonias

The soil has no special requirements. It can be bought at flower shop or cook it yourself. A little sand is laid out at the bottom, then the pot is half filled with leafy soil and a mixture of peat and black soil (1: 1) is added.

If you properly prepare the soil, then the begonia will delight the eye with abundant bright growth and flowering, the colors will be saturated, the leaves will be juicy and healthy, and the trunk will be thick and strong.

Begonia tuberous storage in winter

As soon as the first frosts came, the harvesting of tuberous begonias for storage begins. For this, cut top part, leaving only 3-4 cm. It is dug out without clearing the roots from the ground, and folded into storage boxes.

When the tubers dry out, remove the remnants of the shoots and spread the ground around them with peat. Store in a dry, dark place at a temperature not lower than 10°C. As for the ever-blooming species, there is no wintering period as such.

begonia leaf reproduction

When propagated by leaf cuttings, the strongest and most healthy leaf is selected and cut into several parts along the veins, so that each specimen has 2-3 veins. After that, they are laid out on the surface of wet sand, and covered with a film or plastic bag. Periodically it is necessary to spray the sand.

When young leaves appear, gradually accustom the plant to room air, open for 10-15 minutes and close again, increasing the interval every day.

Reproduction of begonias by stem cuttings

This method is suitable for any type of begonia with a stem. For this, cut best cutting 7-8 cm with 2-3 leaves, the lower ones must be removed, and the large upper ones should be cut in half. Place the cut, treat with charcoal.

In the prepared pot, with a mixture of sand and soil for begonias (1: 1), stick the stalk into the previously made hole with a stick, deepening it to the leaves. Cover with cut plastic bottle. A month later, new leaves will appear. Gradually accustom the plant to air. It will start blooming in a couple of months.

Begonia reproduction by dividing the bush

Bush-growing begonias can be propagated using rhizomes. To do this, remove the plant from the ground, soak the roots a little in water, then carefully divide the rhizome into parts so that each has a bud or sprout.

Excess, dried leaves and inflorescences are removed, and the cut points are processed with charcoal. Plant in pots and water.

Begonia from seeds

Not the most popular method, since not all seeds germinate or turn out to be viable, but it is still used.

Seeds are sown in a pre-prepared substrate, without falling asleep on top of the ground, sprayed and covered with a film or glass (periodically opening slightly to prevent waterlogging).

After thinning, wait until the sprouts get stronger and transplant into separate pots.

Reproduction of tuberous begonia

In autumn, the leaves on the begonias are cut off, the tubers are removed from the ground and cleaned from the ground and dried. In February-May, the tubers are cut into several parts (two, three), but so that roots and sprouts remain on each.

The cut side is sprinkled with charcoal and placed in peat (not deeply buried, a small part should be on the surface), making sure that it does not dry out. The temperature should not drop (10-12°C). The germination process is very slow, you need to be patient.

Enjoys special beauty and fame unpretentious plant- room begonia. Few people can leave this flower indifferent. How to properly grow and care for indoor begonia, what are the popular types of indoor begonia, how to prepare the soil and properly transplant begonia, you can find out by reading this text.

The Begoniev family includes more than 800 plant species, which are native to Southeast Asia, Brazil, Africa And Madagascar Island. In nature, the size of the begonia plant varies from 5 cm to 3 meters.

The many forms and varieties of this flower are striking in their diversity. Flower growers know that this flower is known not only for its variety of varieties and species, but also for its growing conditions. grown both outdoors and indoors. Indoors, as a rule, a hybrid type of room begonia is planted.

Types of room begonias are:

1. decorative blooming, eye-catching with the irresistible beauty of flowers;
2. decorative deciduous, having a variety of shape and color of the leaves.

Popular types of flowers of indoor decorative flowering begonia

Bushy begonias:

• Begonia coral - a large plant with decorative leaves 10-15 cm long, with white spots and bright pink flowers;
• Indoor bright red begonia is a fairly large plant with shiny, smooth, egg-shaped leaves. Inflorescences of juicy red flowers have the form of a panicle.
• Begonia indoor ever-flowering - a low plant with round light green leaves, 5-6 cm long. Flowers blooming almost all year round in white, red and pink.

Tuberous begonias:

• Begonia Elatior is a tall plant that has the shape of a bush up to 35 cm high, decorative jagged green leaves and flowers of various colors reaching 4-5 cm in diameter. Very lush and long flowering.
• Begonia Lorrain - plant height reaches 50 cm. Exotic rounded, dark green leaves, up to 8 cm long. Flowers are pink, red and white.

Popular plant species of indoor decorative leafy begonia

• royal begonia - has an unusually decorative coloring of the leaves smoothly turning from red to dark brown. The length of the leaves reaches 30 cm. One of the most popular decorative leafy begonias;
• tiger begonia - up to 25 cm high, bushy shape. The leaves are quite small, dark green, with spots of a light shade.

How to care for room begonia?

Caring for room begonia is not difficult. This plant is not one of the capricious, but still it also needs some care.

Begonia belongs to light-loving plants, but direct sunlight is contraindicated for it, as it leads to leaf burns.

Begonia should be placed near the window, and if this is not possible, then provide shade for it.

Maximum comfortable temperature for begonias in the summer should not exceed 22-25 ° C, and in winter time– 15-18 o C.

Watering is of great importance for room begonia. This plant is not suitable for both dry soil and too wet. For example, in spring and summer, homemade begonia should be watered as often as possible, but without flooding it to prevent water stagnation. Determining the time of watering is not difficult. It occurs when the soil dries to a depth of 1-2 cm. In addition, watering should be done with settled water.

Of no small importance for home begonias is air humidity. Since the homeland of this plant is the tropics and subtropics, it loves high humidity. If other plants can be provided with such a climate by spraying, then this is contraindicated for begonias.

If the begonia is sprayed, then its leaves will be covered with spots. But there is a way out. It is enough to put a flower pot on moss, wet peat, or place it in a shallow container with water.

Don't forget to feed your plants. Begonia needs feeding 1-2 times a month. Fertilizers containing nitrogen are applied only to decorative leafy species, since nitrogen promotes leaf growth, but slows down flowering. But for decorative flowering, fertilizers with a phosphorus content are suitable.

It must be added that indoor begonia prefers fresh air, so the room in which it grows is periodically ventilated. At the same time, one should not forget that begonia is afraid of drafts, which can lead to its death.

You can't take your eyes off the blooming begonia. She thanks her for taking care of her. Indoor begonia blooms for a long time, but not forever. Time passes, the flowers wither and crumble, the leaves fade and dry. It's time for rest and sleep. Now begonia should be watered less often, and the air temperature should be cooler - up to 14-16 ° C. We cut off all the dried parts of the plant and prepare for transplantation.

How to transplant indoor begonia?

You can prepare the soil for begonias yourself. This plant prefers a light substrate. It is prepared from a mixture of leaf and sod land, rotted humus, sand and peat. It is important to pay attention to the fact that the leafy earth should be slightly more than half of the total volume of the pot.

Indoor begonia does not require frequent transplantation, but if the roots are already crowded, then a transplant is necessary. Usually, begonias are transplanted in the month of March.

Carefully remove the flower from the pot, clean the roots of the old soil and place them for a while in a solution of potassium permanganate. Potassium permanganate helps protect the roots from fungal diseases, to which indoor begonia is predisposed. Then all damaged roots are cut off and placed in a new container with earth.

When transplanting a plant, do not fill the pot to the top. The soil is added later, as the roots grow. After transplantation, indoor begonia requires increased attention and care. In the first month, watering should be frequent and carefully protected from direct sunlight.

Diseases and pests of room begonia

The indoor begonia plant is not resistant to fungal diseases. Noticing that the plant begins to get sick, you should remove the affected areas. Begonia can also be affected by pests. Her enemies are aphids and spider mite. At an early stage of the disease, it is recommended to rinse the plant in a soapy solution. And for serious treatment, it will be enough to treat it with a fungicidal preparation, in the way indicated in the instructions for use.

Video: begonia care secrets

The most unpretentious begonias are root begonias. They do not need to arrange a dormant period, like a tuber. However, the root ones require care all year round. In winter they are fed, but less often than in summer; pruned in spring. Regardless of the species, all begonias grow well and delight with their decorative effect at high humidity in combination with unfilled soil. In this connection, there are nuances of watering: as the soil dries up, only in the pan, you can not spray the leaves. How to properly care for a flower in order to grow it as beautiful as in the photo in floriculture magazines?

The origin of begonia and distinctive features

In nature, there are more than 1 thousand species of begonias. Largest number There are varieties in South America, Asia (India, the Himalayas, Sri Lanka) is in second place, and western Africa is in third. There is an assumption that it is Africa that is the birthplace of begonias, from here they spread to Asia and America. In the wild, plants are found in humid subtropics and mountains.

The family was first described by the French botanist Charles Plumier. In 1683, under the leadership of the intendant of the French colonies, Michel Begon, he went on an expedition to the islands of the Caribbean. There, the scientist discovered plants that were not known at that time, gave them a description and named them after the organizer of the trip.

Begonias known today are very different from each other in size, shape, coloring of leaves and flowers. Some are perennial, others are annual. There are herbaceous and shrubby begonias, with a creeping or thickened rhizome. But there is a common thing that unites these plants into one family.

Characteristic features of begonias:

• all types of begonias have an asymmetric, oblique leaf;
• flowers - monoecious;
• perianths - brightly colored, unequal;
• the fruit with seeds has the appearance of a box;
• all begonias grow in approximately the same natural conditions: scattered sunlight, high humidity, temperature +13… +22 ⁰C.

Video: a wealth of types and colors of a flower

Begonias - flowers for apartments, gardens and offices

As an ornamental culture, begonia has been developing since 1856, when breeders began to create its hybrids. Tuberous large-flowering varieties appeared, the most famous ones were bred in Belgium. Keeping these plants at home is not too difficult, otherwise they would not be so popular. Begonias are grown in open field and on window sills, they are used for landscaping residential premises and offices, in compositions and separately. Flowers are planted in baskets and planters to decorate walls, furniture, and are also used as ground cover plants. Ever-flowering varieties are suitable for any flower beds, even carpets. Tuberous varieties are grown on balconies, verandas, in closed courtyards.

Care at home has its own nuances, for example, tuberous plants need a dormant period. All begonias love moist air, but do not tolerate damp soil. However, any beginner grower can grow this plant. After all, if something went wrong, and the begonia began to dry out, you can take a cutting or a leaf and start growing the begonia again, taking into account past mistakes. The culture is able to reproduce even with a piece of leaf, which very quickly turns back into a lush and beautiful houseplant.

Varieties of root begonias

everblooming

The main difference between the species is the constant flowering. For the summer, you can plant such a plant in the garden, take it into the house for the winter, and everywhere it will bloom all year round. These are perennial herbaceous begonias. External signs, in addition to constant flowering, are rounded leaves and a small height: tall ones - up to 36 cm, short ones - from 8 cm. Many varieties have been bred with green or burgundy leaves, white, yellow, pink or coral flowers, which, in turn, are terry (in the form of roses) or simple.

Examples of plants in the photo

coral

Indoor herbaceous begonias bloom in early spring and fully justify their name. The flowers are painted in different shades of red, and the flower stalks, branched and hanging under the weight of the buds, are very similar to corals. The leaves also look romantic: elongated, matte, with specks, denticles along the edges resemble the wings of angels. Begonias look most impressive in pots on stands. In care, they are very unpretentious. Bush height - up to 90 cm.

leafy begonias

The species is famous for its decorative leaves, and the flowers of deciduous begonias are small and inconspicuous. Often it is non-flowering perennials. They differ from other species in capriciousness. So, leafy can't be kept under open sky, that is, these begonias love greenhouse conditions, high humidity, diffused light. At the cottage or open balcony they will die. The main feature of the species is large (15–20 cm) and beautiful leaves. They can be decorated with colored pearl spots, exquisite patterns, contrasting colors, silvery sheen or mother-of-pearl tint. stems are pubescent, back side The leaf usually has a red tint.

Photo gallery: Deciduous begonias

Varieties of tuberous begonias

These begonias are grown in shady corners of the garden or on balconies. Their flowers are very beautiful, depending on the variety, they look like a rose, carnation, daffodil, peony, camellia. Stems fleshy, translucent; leaves are asymmetrical, heart-shaped. Under the ground, a rhizome that has grown in the form of a tuber is hidden. In the open field, begonias bloom from June to September, and indoors from spring to December, then a dormant period begins. The ground part dries up, and the tuber is stored until the next season.

Photo gallery: Tuberous begonias

Elatior or hybrid begonias

Hybrid begonias were bred in England by crossing two species: the root Socotra (from the island of Socotra in Indian Ocean) and tuberous. The result was very beautiful plant, similar to tuberous, but with an ordinary root. Blooms in winter. For the compactness of the bush and the abundance of flowers, closely spaced in several tiers, this begonia is called a "bouquet in a pot." At good care Elatior blooms not only in winter, but almost continuously, for several months in a row. Most famous varieties: Elatior Borias, delighting with pink terry flowers with a white edging, and Elatior Baladin with flowers of different shades of pink: from white to red.

Photo gallery: Begonias Elatior

Ampel begonias

Another type of luxury houseplant that is growing in popularity in last years. This group includes root, tuber, and hybrids. They are united by one sign - hanging shoots strewn with flowers different forms and colors: white, yellow, red, orange, pink. Bright asymmetric foliage also looks impressive. Ampel varieties are planted in balcony boxes, planters, tall flowerpots.

Photo gallery: Ampel begonias

Conditions for keeping begonias depending on the season - table

Root begonias in such conditions will bloom all year round or for many months (depending on the variety). For tuberous begonias, this table is only partially suitable. In autumn they are cut off and put away for the winter in a dark and cool place (+12 ⁰C). Water once a month, only slightly wetting a strip of soil along the edge of the pot. At the end of February, they put it out on the window, begin to water and feed, like all other flowering varieties.

Video: Tuberous begonias: rest period and cultivation

Planting begonias

In Europe and the United States, it is customary to buy a blooming begonia, and after it has faded, throw it away. But for Russians, this option is not suitable, we love to transplant, feed, change pots. Begonias are transplanted in the spring, it is in this season that you need to buy them. Without transplanting into nutrient soil, purchased begonia will soon die. Indeed, in the store version, peat serves as soil, and the plant lives due to nutrient solutions. Therefore, immediately after the purchase, the begonia needs to be transplanted.

In the same store, along with a flower, you must purchase:

• drainage (expanded pebbles);
• soil (for begonias, violets or universal for flowering crops based on peat);
• perlite, or vermiculite, or sphagnum moss (for additional looseness of the soil, but optional);
• a pot, 3-4 cm wider and deeper than the one in which the begonia is sold; Mandatory: pallet and drainage holes.

From excess water in a pot, the roots of begonias rot, the flower dies. Therefore, the soil needs loose, breathable, the water in it should not stagnate. In addition, begonias love acidic and fertile soil. It is not recommended to take soil from the house, in the country or in the forest. Such soil is almost always infested with diseases and insects, and its acidity is unknown.

Photo gallery: What you need for a begonia transplant

Drainage is essential for root respiration
Perlite serves as an additional leavening agent Vermiculite is used instead of perlite or sphagnum to loosen the soil
Sphagnum moss, along with perlite and vermiculite, additionally loosens the soil Ready soil for begonias. If it is not available, soil mixture for violets is suitable.
All-purpose soil for flower crops The new pot should be large enough to fit the old one freely.

Begonia transplant steps:

1. Take a new pot and pour drainage into it with a layer of 2-3 cm.
2. If there is an additional baking powder (sphagnum, perlite, vermiculite), then add a few spoons per pot (depending on the size of the pot and begonia).
3. Remove the begonia from the old pot, shake off the peat or soil a little from the roots.
4. Set the flower so that it is at the same depth and fill it with fresh soil.

Video: How to transplant begonia

After transplanting a home begonia, and not a shop begonia that has wintered in an apartment, cardinal pruning of the bush is necessary. Remove all shoots, leaving three or four. In some varieties, only one stem grows, so you don’t have to remove the excess, you just need to shorten it. Strongly elongated bare stems with leaves on top, cut off by a third. After that, the lower dormant buds will wake up, and young shoots will also begin to grow. As a result, a lush bush will grow again.

Begonia care

Watering

The top dried layer is loosened. And only when the earth dries out to a depth of 1-2 cm, you can pour it into the pan. The perfect way- is to put the pot in a container of water until the earth is completely saturated. Then the pot is returned to the pallet, the excess water that has leaked into it is drained. The frequency of watering depends on the conditions in which the begonia is kept: on a sunny window, an open balcony, in the garden. Under the open sky, watered every day, in an apartment, on a shady closed balcony- once every 2-3 days. The condition of the soil should serve as a reference point. Water must be softened. To do this, it is filtered, defended.

Water for watering begonias can be softened and made acidic with peat: 1 kg of peat in a fabric or gauze bag is infused for 24 hours in 10 liters of water.

In addition, begonia is demanding on air humidity, but its leaves cannot be sprayed. There are several ways to more gentle moisturizing: put cups of water next to the flower or pour sand, peat, expanded clay, moss into the pan and always keep this filler moist. In winter, a damp rag is placed on the nearest radiator.

top dressing

Even ever-flowering begonias respond to the changing seasons. In autumn and winter, the windowsills become darker and cooler. The plant is slow growing. If you feed it during this period, the stems will stretch out a lot, the leaves will become tender and sensitive to diseases and pests. Therefore, begonias are often fed in summer, and once a month in winter.

The frequency of top dressing depending on the season - table

Video: How to care for begonias

Why is the begonia not blooming?

This question will never arise from a grower who follows all the rules described above. If all conditions are created for begonias: diffused light, watering without waterlogging and drying out of the roots, the right temperature, regular top dressing, then it will bloom exactly as much and even longer than it should be for the variety. That is, ever-flowering ones are decorated with flowers all year round, Elatior - in winter, all other varieties begin to bloom in spring throughout the summer.

If only one nuance. Begonias are not long-lived, they delight with beautiful foliage and abundant flowering for only 2–3 years, and then you need to take a cutting or leaf and plant a new begonia. The old one will no longer grow and bloom.

Reproduction of begonias

cutting

1. Cut off the stalk with the top 6–10 cm long.
2. Powder the cut with crushed wood, activated carbon or ash.
3. Plant in moist loose soil for begonias and cover with a jar.
4. Water when the soil dries up in the pan, like a regular begonia.
5. With a favorable outcome, the cutting will take root and grow in 2-4 weeks.
6. Gradually accustom the plant to the air in the room. You can put a peg under the neck of the jar so that at first you only ventilate the mini-greenhouse, and after 2-3 days completely remove the jar.
7. If the cutting is dry or rotten, repeat the experiment with another cutting.

This method can propagate all begonias that have stems.

leaf

1. Cutting down sharp knife a healthy leaf at the cutting itself.
2. Put the leaf in water with activated charcoal (1 tablet per glass of water).
3. If the petiole began to rot, you need to cut it to a healthy place and change the water.
4. As soon as young roots form, plant in a permanent pot.
5. When a new begonia begins to grow, the leaf will dry out.

The method is good for begonias with small leaves. Large ones take root very poorly, because they need a lot of food, and young roots do not cope with this task. Therefore, begonias with large leaves are propagated by leaf segments.

Part of a leaf

First way

1. The leaf is cut into segments in the direction from the central vein to the edges. Each segment should have 1-3 veins.
2. Spread pieces of the sheet on top of wet sand or peat, you can stick them into the ground with the cut down.
3. cover plastic bag or plant each segment in a separate container and cover with jars.
4. Keep soil moist.
5. The first sprouts may appear in 1-3 months.
6. Gradually accustom the begonia to the air in the apartment and remove the shelter.

Second way

1. Make cuts across the central vein and the thickest veins.
2. Spread the leaf over the damp soil for the begonias.
3. Press down with stones.
4. Cover the pot with cling film and place in the same place where adult begonias grow.
5. Keep the soil moist.
6. When sprouts appear, gradually remove the shelter.

tuber

Tuberous begonia is also best propagated by cuttings or leaves. Manipulations with tubers are very risky, you can lose the whole plant.

1. At the end of February, after a dormant period, remove the tuber from the pot.
2. If there are children, separate them and plant each in a separate pot.
3. If there are sprouts on the tuber, it is divided with a sharp knife so that each segment is with a sprout.
4. Sections are dusted with coal or ash.
5. Deepen the tuber pieces in half (sprouts up, cuts down).
6. Cover with a jar, keep the soil moist.
7. When the stems grow 7 cm long, bury the tuber completely.

seeds

Against the background of the fact that begonias reproduce perfectly vegetatively, growing from seeds is an illogical solution. However, flower growers also use this method if neither at home nor with friends they have the desired variety. Then you can buy seeds in a store or from breeders and try to grow a gorgeous flower from the smallest seed. Sowing seeds is done in December-January, so that begonias bloom by spring-summer.

1. Spread the seeds on the surface of the moist soil for begonias or in peat tablets. Press the seeds to the ground, but do not bury.
2. Arrange a mini-greenhouse: cover with a film, place in a disposable container with a lid, etc.
3. After 2 weeks, if the soil has not dried out and is not waterlogged, shoots will appear.
4. Transfer the seedlings to the brightest window or illuminate with lamps. Gradually remove cover.
5. When 2-3 true leaves appear, each plant can be transplanted into a pot.

Video: Reproduction of begonias by seeds

Begonia diseases - table