Flower growers always place special hopes on begonia. They expect extravaganzas of flowering, well-developed bushes, and beautiful decorative leaves. For this reason, tubers are carefully stored until spring, seedlings are grown, and they are carefully looked after.

Conditions for home growing

Illumination

Begonias are photophilous, but do not tolerate direct sunlight. In summer, for begonias, you should choose well-lit places, but away from direct sunlight. They will feel best on east or west windows. On southern windowsills, these plants must be shaded during the midday hours to avoid burns on the leaves.

In winter, on the contrary, it is necessary to provide them with maximum light and place them in sunny places in the morning. With strong shading, plants stretch out their shoots and produce few flowers. In winter, for those who bloom at this time, hybrids Lorraine and Elatior There is little natural light; it is advisable to provide them with additional lighting.

Humidity

Begonias are preferred high humidity air, since in the wild these flowers grow in tropical forests, with cultural cultivation they also need high air humidity of 60-70%. You can increase it at home by spraying. The air around the plants should be humidified, but not the leaves themselves. These plants need to be sprayed very carefully using the smallest spray nozzle - drops of water leave unsightly spots on the leaves. It is better to place these plants on trays with damp expanded clay, in a group of plants, or use a humidifier.

If the begonia is kept too dry, the tips of the leaves dry out, the buds fall off, and the plants lose their decorative properties. Also, do not place them near central heating radiators.

Temperature

Begonias are thermophilic, do not tolerate negative temperatures. They cannot be grown on cold windowsills. It is important to maintain temperature balance: in summer the room should be between 20-24°C, in winter – 16-18°C, but not lower than 15°C.

The soil

Light, slightly acidic soil with good air and water permeability is suitable for plants. The soil mixture is prepared from 2–3 parts of humus soil, 1 part of high-moor peat, which has an acidic reaction, and 1 part of coarse sand.

Care

Watering

Begonia does not tolerate too wet soil. Overmoistening is especially dangerous for tender seedlings; plants “suffocate” from lack of air and may die from root rot. The substrate should be moist, but not wet. Watering should be avoided cold water, below 12°C, so that the roots do not die off. During the flowering period, begonias should not experience a lack of moisture, otherwise the leaves will lose their decorative effect, and the buds and flowers will begin to fall off.

These plants have a delicate root system that is sensitive to overdose of fertilizers and improper watering. From spring to autumn, begonias are watered abundantly, after the top layer of soil has dried. Once every 10 days add to water for irrigation complex fertilizers. In autumn and winter, they are transferred to moderate watering, preventing the earthen clod from completely drying out. Excess or lack of moisture leads to the falling of leaves and buds, which can cause various diseases and even the death of the plant.

Top dressing

For normal growth and development, plants need balanced nutrition. When feeding, seasonality, the age of the plant, and its characteristics are taken into account. During spring growth, plants need nitrogen. With its deficiency, begonias lag behind in development, the leaves become pale green. With an excess of nitrogen, plants do not adapt well to unfavorable conditions.

From mid-summer flowers are prepared for autumn-winter period. In fertilizers, the amount of nitrogen is reduced and the proportion of phosphorus and potassium is increased. For fertilizing use organic and mineral fertilizers. Frequency – once every 10-14 days. Do not feed sick or dry plants.

Transfer

Begonias can be replanted throughout the spring, or at least until mid-summer, so that the plants have time to get stronger by autumn. This procedure is carried out annually, sometimes twice a year if the bushes and roots have grown quickly and the pot has become cramped. There is no need to take a new container that is too large. The begonia roots should fill the entire volume of the pot, so it is better that the new pot is not much larger than the previous one.

Begonias are watered before transplanting. The soil should not be too wet. In a new pot, a layer of expanded clay is placed on the bottom for drainage, then the flower is transferred along with a lump of earth. If necessary, add soil to the container and compact it around. Transplantation can be combined with dividing the plant. An important point when planting tubers is that they should not be planted too deeply. This will negatively affect flowering, the bush will be lush and flowering will be sparse.

Features of care in winter

Wintering conditions for different species have their own characteristics, for some it is a period of relative rest, others need full winter holidays. Watering and room temperature are important factors for keeping plants during the cold season.

Plants with decorative leaves in winter they can develop as well as in summer. But in conditions of short daylight hours and a lack of natural light, the shoots stretch, become thin and fragile. Plant growth is regulated by watering. In winter, it is reduced and watered when the top layer of soil dries out. The temperature is also reduced to 16-18°C. You cannot place pots of flowers close to heating devices and batteries. It is advisable to provide additional lighting for the flowers.

In begonias Elatior They have a year-round development cycle; they can delight you with their flowering all winter long. To make it lush artificial lighting provide 14 hours of daylight. Watering should not be excessive. Experienced flower growers still advise giving Elatior begonias a rest between winter blooms. By pinching the tips of the shoots you can regulate the flowering time.

For tuberous begonias after the end of summer flowering, reduce watering, trim the shoots and move the pots to a cool place - to the basement, glassed-in loggia, veranda.

Tubers can be preserved in another way. At the end of September, after pruning, they are removed from the ground, cleaned, dried, placed in a bag of peat and placed on winter storage. The tubers will remain dormant until the end of winter. The tubers are checked regularly, at least 1–2 times a month. When root rot appears, the affected areas are cleaned and then treated with sulfur. If the infection has spread to large plots, then the tuber is thrown away to save other plants.

It is not advisable to store tubers in the refrigerator; it is too cold for them. The buds will take a long time to wake up in the spring.

Reproduction

Propagation of begonia seeds, leaf and stem cuttings, dividing tubers and bushes.

Cuttings

The advantages of this method are the preservation of varietal characteristics and the speed of reproduction. The most suitable period is spring. Young shoots with 1–2 internodes are cut from the top of the plant. Remove flowers, buds, lower leaves, the upper ones are shortened by a third to reduce evaporation.

The cuttings are planted in mini-greenhouses with good drainage. The rooting mixture is prepared from peat, sand and vermiculite. Planted cuttings are regularly sprayed, ventilated to prevent rotting, and protected from the hot sun.

Begonia cuttings can be rooted in water, and plants can also be propagated by leaf cuttings. For this purpose, not old leaves with petioles 2–3 cm long are suitable. They are planted in a pot with a substrate, deepening the leaf to the length of the petiole. Small leaves for cuttings are taken whole, large leaves are divided into parts. The leaf fragment should have a piece of petiole and a vein. Transplantation of rooted leaf petioles begins only after the appearance of new young plants. Typically this period is 4–6 weeks. Feeding begins a month after transplantation.

Dividing tubers and bushes

This method is suitable for tuberous begonias and for plants that form large bushes. Its advantage is that begonias begin to bloom earlier.

At the beginning of spring, the plants, together with a lump of earth, are divided into parts and planted in containers. The tubers are cut into pieces so that each has buds. Then the cuttings are slightly dried and planted in light soil. To form new roots, tubers need access to air and moisture. Overmoistening should not be allowed; the soil should be in a semi-moist state, since at first there is a high risk of tubers rotting.

Propagation by seeds

Propagated by seeds ever-flowering begonia, ampelous and tuberous.

In this way you can immediately get more plants than with cuttings or division.

In mid-winter, shallow containers are filled with an earthen mixture consisting of equal parts of compost, leaf soil, peat and sand. For disinfection, the soil surface is spilled with a solution of fundozol. Begonia seeds are small; they are not buried in the ground, but are sown on the compacted surface of the substrate. The containers are covered with transparent glass or plastic bag and place in a warm place with a temperature of 21–23°C. The seeds germinate within two weeks. Next is the usual care of the seedlings: daily ventilation for 1–2 hours, careful watering from a spray bottle, control over the formation of condensation on the inside of the glass or film. After 12–14 days, the cover is removed. During this period, the temperature of the seedlings is reduced to 17–19°C and the plants are protected from direct sun. The seedlings are ready for picking after the formation of 2-3 true leaves.

Pests and diseases

Diseases

Most often, begonias suffer from powdery mildew and gray rot.

– fungal disease. Appears as a white coating on the leaves. Reduces the decorative value of the plant and can spread to all above-ground parts. The leaves begin to turn brown and dry out. Control measures - treatment with fungicides. In the room you need to reduce the air humidity and ventilate it more often.

Gray rot appears in damp and cool conditions. Fungi attack leaves, shoots, and flowers. A gray fluffy coating forms on them. Systemic fungicides will help cope with the disease. In addition, reduce watering and ventilate the room.

Pests

Aphid – a small wingless sucking insect of green or yellowish color. The pests are very prolific, multiplying quickly and sucking the juice out of the plant. The leaves turn yellow, the flowers fall off. They destroy pests by spraying plants with soap solution, tobacco infusion, and chemicals.

Spider mite, like aphids, sucking small insect. It depletes the plants, begonia leaves become deformed, and the buds fall off. Affected bushes are washed with soapy water and treated with insecticides.

Root nematode – a microscopic worm that settles on the roots and lower on the stems. Growths form on them in which larvae develop. Plants are stunted and rot. Sick plants are destroyed.

Blooming begonias will decorate your home; plants with colorful leaves of unusual shapes will enliven any interior. Looking at begonias, one cannot help but believe that “beauty will save the world.”

How to properly care for begonias? And interesting tips from experienced flower growers, you will find out by watching the video.

Among the popular plants among gardeners, begonia stands out, attracting attention with its bright and lush flowering. Caring for begonia at home is not difficult, but it requires attention. To add brightness and liveliness to the interior, creating an atmosphere of comfort, this indoor flower is ideal.

Conditions for growing begonias

Anyone who has encountered growing begonias knows that there are more than 900 species of this plant. In order for an indoor flower to open in all its glory, proper care is necessary, which will differ depending on the type of plant. It is worth noting that begonia, depending on care, can bloom both in summer and in winter period. Decorative deciduous species differ in leaf shape and color; the flowers themselves are less attractive in contrast to 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 dedicated to plants. Room temperature is optimal for growing a flower. In summer, 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, partial shade can be created. The flower should not be placed in places where drafts are possible. Such conditions can lead not only to wilting, but also to the death of the plant. One of important conditions When growing begonias, it is to create a dormant period, which is necessary after intense flowering for rest. If care for begonia is inappropriate, this will affect its condition. This can manifest itself in the form of withering leaves and lack of flowering for a long time. Therefore, you don’t have to wonder why the plant doesn’t bloom.

How to properly care for begonia (video)

Watering and air humidity

Depending on the time of year, the watering regime will be different. For example, in winter, begonia does not need a lot of moisture; in summer, watering should be done more often. You need to monitor the condition of the soil: it should not be too wet or too dry. At high humidity root system It might just rot. During the flowering period, the plant needs to be watered more often. When the inflorescences fall off, you can switch to the previous moisturizing regime. “Water procedures” are resorted to when the top layer of soil dries 1-2 cm.

As for specific data on the number of irrigations, it is impossible to give them, since they depend on both the time of year and the air quality. Your flower itself will let you know when it was created for it. comfortable conditions, and when the watering regime needs to be changed. Special attention You need to pay attention to the quality of the water that is used to water the begonia. Tap water use is not recommended because it contains a large number of chlorine To reduce it, the water must be boiled and passed through a filter, or simply allowed to 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 time moisturizing is carried out every day, in winter a couple of times a week. To prevent plants from experiencing stress, you should use 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 of 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 getting 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 tray.

Feeding begonias

To properly care for begonias, 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 makes us happy beautiful flowering. In addition, additional nutrition is necessary for the development of young shoots. For the fertilizer to be suitable, it must have the inscription “for indoor plants” on it, and you also need to pay attention to the composition. Begonia needs elements such as phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, but chlorine should be avoided.

To date, select necessary fertilizer is not a problem since their selection is very diverse. In addition, special formulations are offered that are intended 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. On average, begonia is fertilized once a month, but if necessary, it can be fertilized more often by reducing the concentration of the solution. For decorative deciduous species Nitrogen fertilizers are used, which ensure leaf growth, but they have a poor 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 you exclude feeding? The leaves of the plant will become pale, faded, and the bush will take on a nondescript appearance. The buds become small and their number decreases. The flowering period in this case is short, since the flowers dry quickly and fly away. But this does not mean that plants need to be filled with fertilizers. Excess nutrients It won't do any good either.

Basics of successful care (video)

How to care for begonia during the dormant period?

Any plant growing at home and characterized by abundant flowering, requires rest. One of these is begonia, which requires a slowdown in growth and a period of rest that occurs in winter. The process of caring for a plant has its own nuances and depends on its type. Tuberous begonia is the most demanding to care for. It is necessary to ensure that the plant gradually enters a dormant period: first, watering is reduced, fertilizing is stopped, and 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 stopped completely; it should be reduced to 2-3 times a month. The plant should also be brought out of dormancy gradually.

If we consider hanging begonia, then it is somewhat easier to care for. The flower does not need to be gradually brought out of dormancy, and there is no need for pruning either. 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 The hybrid type of begonia - Elatior - does not require either; it is enough to reduce fertilizing and watering. The air temperature should be maintained within +15...+17˚С. Many gardeners use this variety as annual plant, replacing old copies with new ones. As one might understand, some types of begonia are more demanding on the dormant period, but in any case it can be provided. When 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.

Begonia transplantation and propagation

To replant the plant, you can either purchase soil or prepare it yourself. If you are a fan of doing everything yourself, then in this case you will need:

• pour a drainage layer of sand onto the bottom of the pot;
• fill the pot halfway with leaf soil;
• fill the rest of the container with a mixture of chernozem 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 requires periodic replanting. This is evidenced by roots sticking out of the drainage holes. Transplantation is underway in early spring. For begonia, select a large container, carefully remove the plant from the pot, clean the roots from the soil and disinfect it in a solution of potassium permanganate. After this procedure, dead roots are trimmed.

The begonia flower reproduces in several ways:

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

Each type of begonia has its own reproductive characteristics, and in order for the plant to take root, they must be taken into account. Let's consider transplantation and propagation 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. Leaves are trimmed.
3. Clear the root system of soil.
4. The tuber is placed in peat to prevent drying out.
5. The temperature should be maintained within +10˚С.

Towards the end of the dormant period, the tuber is planted in the ground or in a large pot. If we consider reproduction tuberous begonia seeds, then this process is quite 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. Two weeks after sowing, shoots should appear. These sprouts are used as seedling material. To do this, they are picked and planted in the ground. Flowering should be expected in 4-5 months.

Some gardeners, usually beginners, are interested in the question of how to care for begonias after purchase? After the flower is purchased, it must be replanted, since in the store it is in soil intended for transportation. Such soil is not capable of providing 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 until the end of this period.

How and when to prune begonia?

If indoor flowers such as begonias are not cut or pinched, 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 the young plant reaches a height of 7-8 cm, pinch the top, which will stimulate the growth of lateral shoots.
2. When the side shoots reach 10 cm, their tops are cut off. After the development of new branches, the formation of the bush stops.
3. Subsequent care boils down to pruning or removing overgrown or excess shoots.

If begonia is formed too late, you may not have time to form decorative look plant. In this case, you need to perform re-rooting. It is worth noting that pinching and pruning not only allow you to get an attractive crown, but also have a positive effect on flowering and rejuvenate an adult bush. For pruning, you must use a sharp and clean knife, which will prevent the introduction of infections. To avoid rotting of the cuts, they are treated with crushed charcoal.

Diseases and pests of begonia

Quite often, at high humidity, begonia is susceptible to a disease such 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 fungus throughout the flower. If begonia sheds leaves and buds, then this indicates improper care: It is necessary to increase air humidity and follow the watering regime. If you observe pale leaf color, you need to improve the lighting conditions. If the temperature is low and the humidity is excessive, the begonia may be affected by gray mold, which is 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 maintaining it in a healthy state. The flower responds very well to proper care, and you don’t need to devote a lot of time to this process: a few minutes a day is enough, and the begonia will thank you with lush flowering and gorgeous foliage.

Among all the variety of flowers on windowsills, begonia looks like a real queen. A plant with beautiful, abundant flowers began to be grown in our area about 200 years ago. But it was described much earlier - back in the 17th century. And this was done by the man in whose honor the flower was later named - Michel Begon. Today, begonia is grown not only on window sills and in greenhouses. Some varieties of plants tolerate winters well and can be grown in gardens and outdoor flower beds.

Begonia belongs to a genus that is considered one of the most numerous in the Begoniaceae family. In total, this genus includes approximately 1000 plants that grow in high mountain areas, as well as in tropical forests, and they are known to be characterized by high humidity.

Most plant species are found in South America. But there is this one beautiful flower and in Sri Lanka, India, the Himalayas, and the western part of the African continent.

Begonias are characterized by flowers of different sexes, which are zygomorphic, that is, they have an irregular shape. The perianth usually has a bright color.

Tuberous begonia has large flowers, sometimes reaching 15 cm, and ever-flowering begonia has small flowers (2-3 cm). Begonia fruits are capsules that split at the seams and release very small orange-yellow seeds.

Today there is no single accepted classification of begonia. In the literature, plants are divided according to different qualities. Thus, some distinguish decorative flowering species and varieties, as well as decorative deciduous ones. Others divide begonias by their roots. Accordingly, begonias are tuberous, rhizomatous, and with superficial roots.

But we can highlight the most common types of plants that live both in rooms and greenhouses, and in gardens. They, in turn, are also divided into different varieties.

Royal

The species originates from the eastern side of India. This plant considered one of the most beautiful of its kind. On its basis, more than one decorative deciduous variety and other hybrids were bred.

Royal begonia has thickened rhizomes, and its leaves are large, smooth or slightly pubescent. Their shape is heart-shaped, has jagged, uneven edges, and is asymmetrical.

The outline of the leaves is decorated with a crimson stripe, or a red-violet, sometimes brown line. Some hybrids have almost black leaves with crimson spots. The flowers of the plant are inconspicuous and pink in color.

This type includes the following varieties: Silver Greenheart, Cartagena, Hallelujah, Evening Glow, etc.

Everblooming

A plant that has the shape of a small bush that grows up to 60 cm. Its shoots are erect when young, and when they reach maturity they become ampelous. The species is characterized by slightly hairy edges round leaves, measuring about 6 cm.

The color of this species is not very varied - dark, sometimes light green, and there is a reddish tint.

Ever-blooming begonia can be double or simple. Her palette does not include many shades - pink, red and white. Size – up to 2.5 cm, inflorescences do not differ long life, prone to rapid fading, but are immediately replaced by others. With quality care and lighting, this begonia can also bloom in winter.

Main varieties: Bikola, Carmen, Gustav Knaake, Orania.

Elatior

This type It is considered very bright, it can also be called profusely blooming. These plants are hybrids. They have long gained considerable popularity and are favorites of gardeners.

It grows up to 40 cm in height. The stem is fleshy and thick. The leaves are heart-shaped, their edges are jagged, and the size is about 8 cm. The leaves are glossy, smooth, and bright green on top.

And their inner side is lighter, matte. Flowers appear on fairly long peduncles, collected in inflorescences.

The most popular varieties: Louise, Rose, Renaissance, Piccora.

How to grow begonia Elatior: video

Ampelnaya

This species can often be seen on balconies, beautiful terraces or in the gardens. The shoots of the plant are drooping, they cascade down and have many flowers. These plants are planted in flowerpots, as well as hanging pots or baskets.

The species is represented by varieties with double flowers, there are also densely double and semi-double varieties. The palette includes yellow, pink, red and other colors, as well as various combinations of them. Flowers come in different sizes.

Varieties that are often found: Roxana, Gail, Katie, Christie.

Tuberous

This species is also quite popular, mostly due to its abundant and long-lasting flowering. The plant is a perennial, tuber-forming plant. Its flowers resemble camellias or roses. They come in pink, red, orange, purple and other shades. As for size, the species includes flowers from large to small, they can be double or simple.

How to plant tuberous begonia: video

Indoor begonia species are favorites among gardeners because they are unpretentious. Begonia does not require any complicated created conditions. It is also quite resistant to diseases and pests.

Caring for this plant special troubles won't deliver. But still, he must be competent, otherwise the plant will disappear.

If you stick to temperature regime rules of watering and lighting, then the begonia will be well-groomed, neat and can always delight with its sophistication.

Windows that face west or east are most suitable for growing. As for temperature, +18 0 C is considered optimal, although begonia can tolerate warmer air well, especially in the summer months.

Since the plant comes from the tropics, it loves moist air. But spraying may cause unsightly brown spots to appear on begonia leaves. Therefore, in winter, when the air dries out the heating, pots with this flower can be placed in trays with wet expanded clay.

It is important to remember that decorative begonias do not tolerate crowding. This must be taken into account when placing flowerpots. The plant needs ventilation, although it absolutely does not tolerate drafts. From them it fades, sheds leaves and flowers.

Begonia should be watered moderately, but carefully monitor the soil. Much more important is not watering, but sufficient air humidity. The plant requires more moisture in the summer heat. But it is necessary to ensure that water does not stagnate in the roots.

Settled water is best, but not cold - at room temperature. Particular attention should be paid to tuberous species. They do not need to be watered at all in winter.

Fertilizers need to be applied periodically to keep the begonia looking beautiful and healthy. For decorative flowering species, it is necessary to add useful substances from the moment the buds appear. Then - 2 times every 30 days. You can use a complex substance for flowering plants.

When the ovary is formed, you can add substances containing potassium and phosphorus (“Pollen”, “Ovary”). Concerning nitrogen fertilizers, then they are needed only for decorative deciduous species.

Begonia loves a lot of light, especially flowering species. But in hot weather it is worth shading the plant so that it does not get burned. But decorative deciduous varieties prefer diffused light.

Most flowering begonia species produce flower stalks in the summer. Some continuously delight with their flowers - all year round. Tuberous ones sometimes bloom in autumn, but such buds must be cut off so that the plant does not become depleted. If you add it to irrigation water organic fertilizers, then the flowers will be more magnificent and attractive.

In general, begonias do not need to be shaped. However, if for some reason the plant loses beautiful view, it can be trimmed, leaving only 4-5 cm in height. After this, the lateral buds will grow, and new and more active growth will begin.

Replanting begonias is necessary if the flower needs a larger pot. This is not difficult to guess: the roots begin to hang out of the drain holes. But you need to transplant the flower correctly. This is done in early spring.

The soil can be taken from the store or prepared from peat, leaf soil, or black soil. Drainage can be made from simple sand. Immediately before transplanting, the plant is removed and cleared of soil.

Then the root system is dipped into a solution of potassium permanganate. When disinfection is complete, you need to cut off the roots that have died.

Immediately after transplanting, the plant should be watered more often. Young begonias tolerate the transplantation procedure quite easily. But mature ones have many fragile leaves and can suffer. Therefore, after reaching the age of three, begonias are often divided into parts when transplanted.

How to plant hanging begonia: video

Reproduction

There are several ways to propagate begonias. This is dividing the bush, cuttings and propagation by stems and seeds. Which method to choose often depends on the type of plant.

Tubers

Thus, tuberous begonia can only reproduce by seeds or tubers. This species is propagated as follows. In spring, the tubers need to be removed and cut with a knife. Each particle must have at least one shoot or at least a bud, as well as its own roots. After treating the cuts with crushed coal, the tubers can be planted in pots.

Seeds

To propagate begonia by seeds, they need to be placed in a container with sand and soil. With moderate watering, you can get young plants, but you will have to wait - this is a protracted, long process. Seeds germinate in warmth and under good light, the pots with them are covered with film until germination.

You can pick begonia after 3-4 leaves appear. After 50-60 days, the plants can be planted in separate pots. By the way, already in the first year, young begonia can bloom provided there is good lighting.

Cuttings

A very simple vegetative method of propagating begonias is cuttings. Cuttings are cut from the plant; they must have at least 3-4 leaves. All cuts should be treated with charcoal.

Pots with cuttings should be placed in a place where there is a lot of light and warmth, but no direct sunlight. It is important to provide moderate watering after the soil has dried 1-2 cm. Rooting is also carried out in water, where roots appear within about a month.

Leaf

You can also propagate using begonia leaves. Both the leaf itself and part of it are used as cuttings.

• In the first case, the main veins are cut on the underside.
• With the same side it is placed in moistened sand (previously calcined) and secured.
• The soil can only be moistened using a tray.
• Roots will begin to grow from the cuts in about 2 months.

When the new plants gain strength and begin to grow, they can be transplanted into separate pot with ready-made soil mixture.

How to rejuvenate indoor flowers. Propagation of begonia by cuttings: video

Begonia in the room may be attacked spider mite, aphid. They feed on the sap from the cells of the plant, causing it to lose its appearance and develop poorly.

A couple of treatments with Karbofos or Actellik with an interval of 7-10 days will help to destroy aphids.

But you can overcome ticks with the help of drugs such as Derris, Decis.

If the flower is affected by nematodes and has lost color, then it will have to be thrown away - unfortunately, it cannot be treated.

Begonia can suffer from gray mold, botrytis, and powdery mildew. You can combat this with fungicides (Bordeaux mixture, Fundazol, etc.)

If the begonia has contracted some kind of viral or bacterial disease, for example, bacterial wilt, tomato blight, then it will no longer be possible to cure it - it will have to be destroyed.

If we summarize the rules for growing begonia in several points, we get the following list:

• Good lighting;
• Moderate watering, but high air humidity;
• Warm indoor climate;
• Timely feeding;
• High quality transplant.

Compliance with all these rules will allow you to grow beautiful lush begonias at home. The plants will be healthy and can be propagated using the chosen method without any problems. As you can see, there is really nothing complicated in care. Begonias need a little attention and love.

Often people who grow begonia encounter the following problem: the plant’s buds fall off. It is difficult to clearly determine the cause of this condition. This behavior occurs due to various factors.

• when begonia just needs to be fed.

To find out the probable cause, you need to find out the rules for caring for the plant and determine what you are doing wrong. Then it will be easier to understand everything and correct the situation, returning the flower to its beauty.

Poor leaf condition most often occurs due to insufficient moisture. Moreover, it may not be watering, but air humidity.

• Begonia comes from the tropics, so it needs warm air saturated with moisture.
• Another reason is depletion of soil in the pot. If you haven't fed your plant in a while, then perhaps it's time to do so.
• Also, sometimes pests appear in the soil. They affect the roots of the begonia, from which it begins to suffer and lose its beautiful appearance. In this case, you need to replace the soil by preparing a new substrate.
• By the way, when replanting, you must wash the roots and soak them in potassium permanganate dissolved in water. Otherwise, you can move the pests to a new place.

Not many people know that begonia is not only a very beautiful flower, but also useful.

Scientists conducted research and were able to prove that this plant has antiallergic and antiseptic properties. Moreover, begonia helps heal wounds and relieve spasms.

It is rich in useful substances, including oxalic acid, phytoncides, organic acids and tannins. The retracting properties of begonia have also been proven chemical substances.

In addition, the plant can trap dust on its leaves and humidify the air in the room where it lives. You can also place begonia near monitors and other household appliances. And all because this beautiful flower capable of reducing their electromagnetic radiation.

Use in medicinal purposes Can be different parts of the plant. For example, juice helps heal wounds and burns, ulcers, reduces pain in muscles and joints (as a compress), and helps with snake bites. But lung damage and stomach ulcers are treated with an infusion of begonia juice in alcohol.

This is so beautiful and useful plant- domestic begonia.

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

How to care for begonia

Today, more than 900 varieties and types of flowers, about 2000 hybrids, are known. All crops for cultivation are divided into 2 groups - flowering (tuberous, bushy, evergreen) and deciduous. Caring for begonias at home is simple and unpretentious. The plant does not need frequent replanting and a certain temperature. To prevent the flower from blooming prematurely, you should adhere to certain rules:

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

The most popular flowering plant species is Elatior begonia, which is distinguished by its long flowering time and a wide variety of shades. The plant, under proper conditions, can bloom at least all year round almost continuously. The flower loves light very much, although it cannot withstand direct rays of the sun, so it is necessary to place the pot on a north window. If you have Elatior begonia, home care should be as follows:

• placement near front door;
• you will need loose, breathable soil;
• overmoistening is unacceptable;
• It is better that the transplant is carried out a month after purchase;
• daily spraying with warm water is necessary.

Begonia Rex

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

• use soil with medium acidity;
• avoid stagnation of water;
• choose a wide pot with drainage holes;
• water regularly and moderately with settled water;
• Place the plant on a west-facing window with diffuse sunlight.

A subspecies of tuberous plants, ampelous begonia, is often used for vertical gardening. Hanging shoots 50 cm long, as a rule, are strewn with many crimson, white, yellow, orange flowers. For the plant to bloom well, it is necessary:

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

Begonia coral

This perennial, like coral begonia, is capable of reaching room conditions 90 cm high and 50 cm wide. This variety has pink flowers, straight bare stem, leaves – green with silvery splashes. To beautiful flowering plant felt great, it should be in soil that allows moisture and air to pass through. You also need:

• choose the right durable pot (it is better to buy a clay one);
• In summer, water abundantly and regularly;
• avoid direct rays of the sun, only in winter should you expose flower pot on the window, because lack of light will cause the leaves to fade;
• To maintain humidity, you need to spray the air around the plant.

Variety leafy plants is Fista or red-leaved begonia. The flower has a short green stem, long smooth leaves, which are red on the inside. With proper care it can become a bush plant. Flower needed:

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

Begonia tiger

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

• to prevent the leaves from drying out, the flowerpot must be placed on a tray with wet expanded clay;
• the air temperature should be +18 in winter, no more than 22 in summer;
• Direct sunlight should be avoided; it is better to place the pot on a north window;
• It is necessary to water as the soil dries out, and the water should be warm and settled.

The mesmerizing Mason begonia is considered the most beautiful representative of the decorative deciduous species. On its heart-shaped terry leaves there is an image of a five-fingered dark cross. In summer and spring, small emerald-colored flowers appear on the bush. To make the plant comfortable, it is necessary:

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

Begonia Cleopatra

A lover of diffused, rich lighting, Cleopatra begonia or American maple has olive-colored leaves and an erect branching stem. Like the collar and cuff species, this plant does not tolerate dry air and excessive watering. For proper development, you should regularly rotate the bush so that the sides receive uniform light. Rules of care:

• the plant cannot tolerate stagnant moisture, because the entire root system may rot;
• Watering should only be done with warm, settled water;
• Cleopatra loves a damp atmosphere, but does not tolerate moisture on the leaves.

Begonia - reproduction

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

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

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

Begonia - diseases

• Powdery mildew. At the same time, it appears on the leaves white coating, which is constantly growing. The flower may even begin to shed its leaves. Causes: low humidity air, heat.
• Gray rot. The leaves become covered with watery, sticky gray spots. Over time, they begin to curl and rot. Reasons: too much watering, high temperature, humidity.

How to water begonia

Like any subtropical plants, begonia needs high humidity, although at the same time it does not tolerate stagnant water. To provide optimal conditions For flower growth, you need to know how to water begonia:

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

How to plant begonia

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

• Place a layer of coarse river sand on the bottom of the pot;
• fill half the container with leaf soil;
• pour a mixture of black soil and peat on top;
• tubers should be planted in the soil with the convex side;
• water moderately;
• When the buds appear, you can divide the tubers into pieces and sprinkle the cuts with charcoal.

How to prune begonia

Beginning flower growers do not always know why and how to prune begonia. As a rule, this procedure is carried out to improve flowering and maintain the proportions between the crown and root system. In addition, if pruning is not done in a timely manner, the leaves will become smaller and the attractive appearance will disappear. Rules for pruning a plant:

• when the flower stems reach 8 cm, the first pruning is necessary;
• The procedure is carried out with a sharp knife; scissors cannot be used, because they can injure the bush;
• To speed up healing and avoid rotting, the cut site must be treated with wood ash.

How to replant begonia

Growing begonias does not require special skills from gardeners; you just need to know certain rules for watering, temperature conditions and when the plant needs to be replanted. As a rule, begonias are transplanted once every three years in early March. For this procedure, you will need to purchase a new pot, which should be 2 cm larger than the previous one. Transplantation rules:

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

How to preserve begonia in winter

If you treat the plant correctly during the off-season, it will delight you with its flowering for many years. How to preserve tuberous begonia in winter? After all, this type is the most demanding in terms of content. With the onset of cold weather, the plant enters a state of dormancy. Rules for preserving a flower:

• It is not recommended to replant the plant at this time;
• watering should be reduced;
• once a day it is necessary to spray the air near the flower with water, but at the same time so that the drops do not accidentally fall on the leaves;
• on a sunny day, the plant should be placed in a window for several hours.

Video: begonia - leaf propagation

Begonia is an indoor plant that blooms not only in summer, but also in winter. She represents both 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. A plant can have 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 smaller than the other. Flowering begonia species, on the contrary, have large, bright flowers with a range of different shades of warm colors. They can be regular or terry in shape, resembling roses. Thanks to various crossings, a huge number of species of this beauty are known today.

Types and varieties of begonia

- has no stem, and the leaves grow directly from the rhizome on long stalks. 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), are heart-shaped, asymmetrical, have an unusual, heterogeneous color, red, brown and green. The flowers are removed from this plant; they are small and their presence slows down the growth of leaves, but it is the leaves that are the main accent of this species.

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

Metallica or metallic 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.

- a low-growing plant with bright pink flowers, blooms late.

It has a pink stem and large, sharp, finger-like, green leaves with light veins. 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 of unusual shape with a velvety surface. They are dark green almost black in color.

– has a cranked stem, somewhat reminiscent of a bamboo trunk. Reproduction occurs by cuttings, seeds and shoots (from the top). These flowers are more suitable for home grown, as they take root better in enclosed spaces. Some of the types:

It has a long flowering period, which is why it gained its popularity. It has a glossy leaf surface, green or reddish in color. The flowers are small: white, red and pink. 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. It is periodically replanted by cuttings (every three years), as over time it loses its attractiveness.

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

– quite a large species, leaves 10-15 cm in length, have white spots. The flowers are bright pink.

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

– perfect decoration personal plots, gardens and parks. It blooms from June to October, and in closed greenhouses ( winter gardens, greenhouses) and until the first frost. Does not like 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. The following types can be found:

It has curly flowers and well-branched, slightly bent shoots. They are used in landscape design for decorating various hanging structures.

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

The diameter of the flowers reaches 25 cm.

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 with a reddish tint that require additional support. White, pink, orange, yellow, red and their various shades (usually two-color), inflorescences (6-7 cm in diameter) bloom at any time of the year. Leaves with a glossy surface, rounded in shape. The bush reaches 30-35 cm.

The height of the bush is about half a meter. Leaves are dark green, wavy at the edges (7-10 cm). Flowers: white, pink and red.

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

Begonia care at home

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

Therefore, on the street they should be shaded, and in the apartment they should be displayed on the eastern or western windows, and on hot summer days they should be hidden deeper in the room, or the windows should be protected with special paper or film. Turn the pot from time to time, changing the sides of the flower lighting. A temperature of 20-24°C in summer and not lower than 15°C can be called comfortable.

Watering begonias

Since begonia by origin tropical plant, then she loves high humidity. You cannot spray the leaves, otherwise they will begin to deteriorate (they become covered brown spots). Therefore, if the plant does not have enough moisture (for example, in hot weather), place it in a large tray on a stand and pour water (so that it does not touch the bottom of the pot) and pour some expanded clay there. By evaporating, the water will provide required humidity around the flower.

Watering is necessary with plenty of settled water, but do not allow water to linger in the pan. The watering regime is adjusted depending on the season; as soon as the top layer of soil (1.5-2 cm) dries out, 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

Feeding is carried out 1-2 times a week during the period active flowering. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are used for deciduous begonias, as they improve leaf growth but slow down flowering.

Transplanting begonias at home

Replanting is carried out as needed, for example, if a flower becomes cramped in a pot, it can be moved to a more spacious one. Favorable time The time for replanting is the beginning of spring.

The plant is taken out of the pot, carefully freed from old land(it’s a huge mistake to move a flower into a new pot with old soil and sprinkle it with new soil). You need to act carefully so as not to damage the roots and stems. To remove sand, you can use a light solution of potassium permanganate by dipping the roots there for a couple of minutes.

After this, weak spots will become noticeable (if there is rotting, then they should be cut off). The cleaned plant is placed in a new substrate. Watering after transplantation is frequent. The soil is not poured to the top; you need to wait until the roots dry and then add more.

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

Soil for begonia

The soil has no special requirements. You can buy it at a flower shop or prepare it yourself. A little sand is laid out at the bottom, then the pot is filled halfway with leaf soil and a mixture of peat and black soil (1:1) is added.

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

Tuberous begonia winter storage

As soon as the first frosts arrive, the harvesting of tuberous begonias for storage begins. To do this, the upper part is cut off, leaving only 3-4 cm. It is dug up without clearing the roots from the ground, and folded into storage boxes.

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

Begonia leaf propagation

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

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

Propagation of begonias by stem cuttings

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

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

Begonia propagation by dividing the bush

Begonias that grow as bushes can be propagated using rhizomes. To do this, remove the plant from the soil, 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 treated with charcoal. Plant in pots and water.

Begonia from seeds

Not the most popular method, since not all seeds germinate or are viable, but it is still used.

Seeds are sown in a pre-prepared substrate, without covering them with soil, sprayed and covered with film or glass (opening occasionally to prevent waterlogging).

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

Propagation of tuberous begonia

In autumn, the leaves on the begonia are cut off, the tubers are taken out of the ground, 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 deepening it too much, 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.