Begonia: breeding

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Tuberous begonias bloom usually throughout the summer. These plants are known for their large, delicate and at the same time brightly colored flowers, extremely effective against other potted plants. Begonias with a “bamboo-shaped” stem are very easy to grow, they are convenient plants for any collection. Semperflorence begonias (always blooming) - popular summer flowers decorating flowerbeds, are equally suitable for indoor culture.

Begonia cultivation

Tuberous begonias need good bright light. It is best to cultivate them first in greenhouses and then, with the onset of warm weather, bring them out, where they bloom. In the spring, plant the tuber with the concave side up in the pot containing the peat-based substrate. Sprinkle the top of the tuber lightly. Put in a bright, warm place. As soon as the first shoots appear, sparse water, then increase the amount of water as a new shoot appears.

Try to keep the substrate moist throughout the growth period and maintain moisture by placing the plants on a pallet with raw pebbles and lightly spraying plants that are not blooming. In the fall, gradually reduce watering. Stop watering when the leaves turn completely yellow. Once the leaves are dead, remove them, then label the pot and store dry tubers in a cool room all winter. Tubers have different lifespan, and when they lose their strength, they can be rejuvenated.

Begonias with a "bamboo" stem are strong plants. Their stems have joints, like green bamboo. Many plants are bred because of their spotty leaves in the form of "angel wings." In some varieties of these plants, the leaves are like a candle flame or split. Long hanging bunches of flowers of various shades - from pink and orange to white - appear from early summer to winter. Begonias constantly need bright light. Too large specimens in spring can be cut into a knot, closer to the base. After the plant sprouts new shoots, cut them into two or three “joints” so that the begonia begins to grow in the form of a bush.

Semperflorence begonias show a tremulous picture of flowers throughout the whole year. Glossy leaves give this plant an extra appeal. Begonias with bronze or variegated leaves look especially amazing. These are excellent, comfortable plants for cool rooms. They need bright light, although they do not tolerate direct sunlight. You should pinch the tips of young shoots so that the begonia takes the form of a bush. Grow it in flowerpots or in flat containers. They will bloom better if you pinch them regularly and if they are slightly cramped in a pot.

Begonia breeding

Propagate tuberous begonia leafy and stem cuttings.

Cut a non-flowering shoot about 10 cm long, cut below the knot and remove the lower leaves.
Submerge the base of the stem in a hormonal root-forming powder, gently brush off the excess and place in the pot, in which there is a moistened planting compost.

Propagate begonias with a “bamboo-shaped” stem, using cuttings, as explained above. Cuttings can take root in water, after which they must be transplanted into a substrate based on peat.

Non-terry forms of begonia semperflorence can be grown from seeds sown in the spring, or from cuttings, terry varieties - only from stem cuttings.

Begonia nutrition and watering

Begin to water the tuberous begonia in the spring, as soon as the first sprouts appear, at first not too intensely, then, as it grows, gradually increasing the amount of water. Reduce watering in the fall as the leaves begin to die. During the growth period, feed begonia every two weeks with basic mineral fertilizer for indoor plants. In winter, watering must be reduced.

Parasites and possible problems

Aphids and spider mites can become a problem.

In the cold and damp, gray mold may appear on the leaves. It is necessary to improve ventilation.

The leaves turn yellow when the plant does not have enough light, or it is waterlogged, or from a lack of moisture and at low temperatures. If the humidity is too low, the tips of the leaves turn brown. Place the pot on a pan filled with wet pebbles, the water level in the pan should reach the bottom of the pot.

The buds fall off due to lack of moisture or when the room is too dry. Increase watering and humidity.

Longevity: Some species live for several years, others last for many years.

Ampelic begonias have drooping stems and look best in hanging baskets, pots or in pots on a high stand. Multi-colored flowers appear on the tops of shoots.

If you remove the leaves from the stem begonia, this will give your flower the appearance of a "tree". Tall species need props. Begonias of this group are valued for beautiful leaves and flowers. This stunning specimen is Begonia maculata.