Care and conditions for growing home begonias. All about caring for begonia at home, tips for growing a flower

Begonia is probably the most popular home plant and now, and previously it could be found in any house. For all its unpretentiousness, this flower can delight you all summer and autumn. We will talk about hanging begonia, growing it in pots and caring for it at home in winter and more.

Reproduction of ampelous begonia by seeds

To get a lush flowering plant, you need to know how to grow begonia from seeds. Start this process in early spring. First you need to prepare the soil and purchase seeds. Seeds can be of two types:

granular - considered more convenient for planting due to its size and nutritious coating;
ordinary - have small size and do not have a nutrient shell, it is better to plant them in containers intended for seedlings.

If taken for sowing granulated seeds, can be used as a primer peat tablets, which allows you to avoid picking. The tablets must be soaked in water in advance, then placed in a tray, and begonia seeds placed on top of each. You need to monitor the temperature, it should not be below room temperature. It is better to moisten peat tablets using a spray bottle; they should not be allowed to dry out, otherwise the young shoots may die.

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Seeds can also be sown in special containers that are divided into cells. They are filled with planting soil of neutral acidity and the seeds are deepened by 1-2 cm.

Picking of ampelous begonia

After about 50 - 60 days, the grown seedlings need picking. If the seedlings are intended for sale, then it is more convenient to plant them in separate cups or pots; the soil is taken as for sowing, drainage is poured onto the bottom and the cup is filled with earth so that approximately 0.8 - 1 cm remains to the edge. The height of the cup is at least 10 cm. To decorate hanging baskets, 3 to 5 plants are picked at once into a flat wide pot.

Cups with pickled seedlings must be installed so that all plants receive good lighting and periodically they need to be rotated or rearranged. At the same time, you can lower the temperature by another one or two degrees.

The stems of ampelous begonia tend to stretch naturally, so you should not use growth stimulants, but 12 - 14 days after picking, young plants need to be fed with complex fertilizers. The frequency of further feeding is once every two weeks. At the beginning of the growing season it is better to apply nitrogen fertilizers, and during the period of buds and flowering - phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.

The growth of seedlings until they reach a size suitable for planting in the ground, on balconies and loggias, lasts approximately 20 to 22 weeks. Thus, if the seedlings sprouted in January, at the end of May - beginning of June the plants are fully formed and ready to flower.

Planting begonia with hanging tubers

Propagation by tubers is the easiest way. While tuberous begonia is “hibernating”, the rhizomes need to be removed from the ground, the soil and sprouts must be cleaned and stored in peat. The tuber must have more than 7 buds, then it will be accepted faster. The shoots are kept at a temperature of +5…+12°C. They can be placed in the ground after the first shoots appear. At the same time, make sure that the top of the seedling is several centimeters below the top edge of the container. After the sprouts appear, top part The tuber is covered with soil. An already germinated plant needs a lot of light and constantly. You also need to adjust the watering of the plant so as not to flood the soil and harm the begonia.

Lighting for hanging begonia

Ampelous begonias do not like direct sunlight. They are placed on the windowsill, where the light, although bright, is diffused. Keep the pot with it under the bright rays of the sun for only 2-3 hours in the morning and evening, i.e. lift reflective film. Abundance sun rays will come in handy at the end of summer, when the air temperature begins to gradually drop.

Watering ampelous begonia

When watering, we are guided by the following rules:

carefully;
regularly;
abundantly, but respecting the norm.

Begonia loves watering, but does not tolerate waterlogging. So we take this indicator under control, do not allow excess moisture to appear in the soil and do not water it on the leaves. Unfair and irregular watering can lead to the appearance of stem rot, rotting of leaves, wilting, disease and death of begonias.

Watering through a tray gives excellent results, so many gardeners usually use this method.

What and how often to feed ampelous begonia

In order for the plant to bloom magnificently, it needs fertilizing. The regularity depends on the composition of the soil and the condition of the begonia, but the best option is this:

feeding approximately once every 10-14 days;
the use of special compositions for flowering plants.
It is recommended to combine feeding begonias with watering.

Fertilizing is reduced by the end of summer, and completely stopped in the fall. This is necessary to prepare the hanging begonia for the dormant period.

Pests and diseases of ampelous begonia

Ampelous begonia is not a painful plant, but it can also have troubles. This is gray rot - rot on the leaves and shoots of a flower; powdery mildew – white coating on leaves; Bacterial spot is a disease of the back side of begonia leaves. Spraying with special solutions will help against these misfortunes.

IN open ground hanging begonia is planted when frosts have passed and after mandatory hardening of the plants. Begonias love organic-rich, breathable soil. For successful plant development, it is necessary to maintain soil moisture while avoiding stagnation of water. It is best to water ampelous begonias in the morning. During the entire gardening season, plants should be regularly fed with a complete complex fertilizer.

With the onset of September, feeding is stopped. In late autumn, the above-ground part of the plant gradually begins to die off. After death from frost or drying out of the upper part of the plant, the tubers are dug up and cleaned of residues and soil. They are then placed in dry peat and stored at 5 – 12 degrees Celsius. On next year tubers can be used together with seedlings grown from seeds.

Outdoors, bushes of ampelous begonias look especially advantageous in containers raised high above the ground. And if plants of different colors are planted, then it becomes like a fireworks display, only made of fresh flowers.

Ampelous begonia can become a real decoration for any room. A dense waterfall of bright, large flowers immediately attracts attention and leaves no one indifferent. Although begonia is considered somewhat capricious plant, it is very responsive to care and, under comfortable conditions, will delight the owner with abundant flowering for a long time.

The flowers on this plant are of two types - male (large) and female (small). In case of insufficient care large flowers may fall off, causing the begonia to lose its decorative effect. That is why it is necessary to strictly observe the agrotechnical requirements described in the article.

One of the most popular indoor plants, begonias, are native to the tropics and subtropics. South America. However, as decorative flower it began to be grown only in the 18th century. All modern varieties and hybrids of this crop were bred from the first five varieties brought to Europe by English botanists. The plant was named begonia by scientist Charles Plumier in honor of the French governor of the colony of Haiti, Michel Begon.

Varieties

At the moment, gardeners and indoor plant lovers breed only three main types of begonia: herbaceous, shrub and semi-shrub. Tuberous flowers are commonly grown in lawns and flower beds. Begonia rhizomatous, shrub and semi-shrub is more often used as decoration in city apartments. Some forms of this ornamental plant are valued for their beautiful flowers, others for their showy leaves.

Caring for begonias of all varieties is almost the same, with the exception of some nuances. In this article we will talk in detail about how indoor, that is, rhizomatous leaf and shrub forms of begonias are grown.

Pot and soil

Begonia is usually grown at home in rather small containers. The fact is that its roots do not tolerate neighborhoods very well large quantity wet ground. They should completely occupy the space of the pot. In order for the plant to feel comfortable, it needs to be transplanted into a new container every year. bigger size(about 2 cm).

The soil for begonias should be nutritious leaf soil. You can mix it with sand and peat in a ratio of 1:1:3. Sometimes in pots for this ornamental plant pour and purchased soil. In this case, it is better to buy peat.

Where to place begonias

Most begonias are shade-loving plants. That is, they cannot be placed in direct sunlight, otherwise their leaves will be burned. Most often, begonia is grown at home on window sills located on the north or east side. It is especially important to comply with this condition for rhizomatous varieties with beautiful leaves. Shrub and semi-shrub begonias also love partial shade. However, direct lighting usually does not cause them too much harm. These varieties adapt to the sun very quickly.

An exception to this rule is the garden tuberous begonia. It is usually planted on lawns laid out in sunny areas. And she feels very good about it.

Reproduction methods

Seeds and petioles are what you can use to propagate these flowers. Begonia, unfortunately, loses its decorative value after just a few years of cultivation. Therefore, old plants have to be replaced with new ones. And therefore, those who want to see this crop as a decoration for their apartment should definitely become familiar with the technology of its cultivation.

Begonia: propagation by seeds

This method, being quite complex, is used very rarely for breeding begonias. However, if you wish, you can try to propagate this ornamental plant this way. In this case, the growing procedure usually begins in February. This begonia propagates by seeds as follows:

A 2-3 cm layer of drainage is poured onto the bottom of a large box. It is best to take pebbles that are not too large.
Leaf soil is sifted through a fine sieve and poured over the drainage in a layer of 2-3 cm.
A layer of snow is laid on top of the ground.
Begonia seeds are sown on it. They are very small, and therefore the procedure must be carried out slowly, trying to distribute them over the surface of the snow. planting material as evenly as possible.

Begonia does not tolerate dry air very well. Therefore, the box should be tightened until the seeds germinate plastic film. After the plants hatch, this covering must be removed and the box placed in a lighted, slightly shaded place.

For the first time, plants are picked immediately after the first true leaf appears on them. At the same time, they are planted in another box. First, leaf soil with a small addition of peat and sand is poured into it. Planting is done in such a way that there is a distance of approximately two centimeters between the rows and between individual plants.

As soon as the bushes become crowded in the box, carry out a second pick. This time a mixture consisting of leaf soil, humus, peat and sand in the proportion 4x1x1x1. Planting is carried out according to a 3x5 pattern.

Begonia from seeds will develop well only at temperatures not lower than 20 degrees. Also, the soil in the boxes should be disinfected from time to time by watering with a weak solution of potassium permanganate (0.6%).

Propagation by cuttings

Planting begonias can also be done using this technique. For propagation in this case, either young or slightly lignified cuttings are taken, which should have at least 2-4 buds. Under the lowest node, an oblique cut is made with a very sharp knife. Large leaves are removed from the cuttings. It's better to leave the small ones. Cuttings should be planted in pots one at a time. You can also take a large box. However, in this case, planting material should be placed only along its perimeter (at the edges). The fact is that cuttings are well accepted only if there is free air circulation.

Leaves soil mixed with peat and sand is poured into pots or boxes. A few days before planting, the soil needs to be thoroughly wetted. Do not water the soil before and after planting. The cuttings are carefully stuck into the ground and covered on top with a film attached to sticks of suitable length.

For two weeks, the plants must be sprayed and ventilated daily, removing the covering for a while. After this period, the seedlings begin to accustom themselves to room temperature. To do this, the film is removed every day for 2-3 hours. They do this for a week. Then the film is removed completely.

How to propagate by leaves

This method is also often used by indoor plant lovers. Propagation by leaves is carried out as follows:

With mother plant a large healthy leaf is removed and cut into squares 2 cm long;
the resulting planting material is planted vertically in a moistened mixture of leaf soil, sand and peat or simply laid out on it;
The box is covered with film.

Begonia, propagation by leaves of which is not difficult, germinates in this case in about 2-3 weeks. From this moment on, the box needs to begin to be ventilated. To do this, the film is first removed for 30 minutes a day. Then the ventilation time is gradually increased. You should try to adapt the plant completely to room temperature within a week.

How to water correctly

Of course, a lover of indoor plants should also know how to properly water these wonderful flowers. Begonia, like any other tropical plant, does not tolerate dry air at all. Therefore, it should be sprayed daily with a spray bottle. But this must be done in such a way that water does not fall on the leaves. Spraying is carried out around the plant, humidifying the air. You can also place the begonia pot in a larger container. In this case, water is poured into the bottom of the latter and stones are placed. The pot with the plant should be installed so that its bottom does not touch the water.

Actually, begonias are watered very rarely. This plant does not like too damp soil. At high humidity soil, its roots begin to rot and its leaves turn yellow. Before watering, the water should be left for a day at room temperature. Flowering begonia, as well as those forms that are valued for the beauty of their leaves, are watered every other day or several in spring and summer. In winter, the number of waterings is reduced to once a week.

Immersion method

Sometimes this technique is used to moisten the soil in a pot. It's completely easy to implement. To do this, you need to take a container larger in volume than a flower pot. Peat-softened water is poured into it (1 kg per 10 liters). Next, lower the pot into the container for 20 minutes. As a result, water will penetrate into it through the drainage holes and moisten the soil. Then the potted begonia is placed on a tray. As soon as the water drains from drainage holes, it is drained.

Growing begonia: how to fertilize

To feed plants, they usually use a special mixture for begonias, which can be purchased at a specialized store. If you can’t find it, you can use any complex fertilizer for indoor flowers. In spring and summer, fertilizing is usually done once a month. At the end of autumn and winter, plants are not fertilized. At this time, the flowers are at rest and fertilizing can even harm them. The only exception is the ever-flowering begonia. This variety should be fertilized all year round.

Diseases

Resistant to various kinds diseases is also what characterizes these spectacular unpretentious flowers. Begonia, however, sometimes still causes problems in this regard for lovers of indoor plants. Most often it is affected by powdery mildew. In this case, a white or gray coating that can be easily wiped off with a finger appears on the stem and leaves of the plant. The fungus begins to suck all the juices out of the plant. As a result, the leaves curl up and gradually die off.

Plants are usually relieved of powdery mildew using special purchased funds- fungicides. They also treat other begonia diseases caused by fungi. Very popular and effective, for example, are drugs such as “Topaz”, “Zlato”, “Fundazim”, etc. Before treatment, the diseased plant must be isolated from others, since powdery mildew spreads very quickly. You also need to remove all plaque. Severely affected shoots and leaves are removed and burned. The actual spraying is carried out according to the instructions for the selected drug.

Pests

Begonias are also sometimes affected by spider mites or aphids. In the first case, the plant can be treated with infusion of chamomile or tobacco with soap. Aphids are destroyed with preparations containing pyrethrum. You can also treat the plants with a weak infusion of garlic. To prepare it, 2-3 mashed garlic cloves are mixed with 2 tsp. oil and one teaspoon liquid soap. Next, fill in everything warm water in an amount of 0.5 liters.

Most popular varieties

And finally, let's figure out what popular varieties begonias exist on this moment and which one is best to choose.

Most often, indoor plant lovers grow the following varieties:

Begonia ever-blooming. This is one of the most beautiful forms, the main feature of which is a thick bare stem, reaching a height of up to 40 centimeters. Depending on the variety, the leaves of this begonia can be emerald or bright green, and the flowers can be white, pink, red or salmon. The peculiarities of this variety, among other things, include the fact that it blooms almost all year round.
Begonia coral. The branches of this form hang down very beautifully. Its leaves are covered with spectacular white spots. Coral begonia blooms in spring. The flowers of this variety can have different shades of red - from hot pink to dark burgundy.
Royal begonia. This variety has a creeping stem and very beautiful variegated leaves.

Coral, evergreen and royal begonias are the most popular varieties. However, sometimes lovers of indoor plants also breed more exotic forms of begonias. For example, tuberous varieties are grown mainly in gardens and yards. However, even in a pot they can look very good. Household tuberous begonia, unlike rhizomatous varieties, is valued not for beautiful leaves. It has earned popularity primarily for its spectacular double flowers.

As you can see, there are many varieties of begonia. And all of them, without exception, are distinguished by high decorative qualities. Considering that caring for any form of this wonderful indoor flower and even propagating them is not a difficult task; using begonia to decorate an apartment is certainly worth it.

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

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

What conditions are needed for begonias?

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

The air in the room should not be dry. Otherwise, it is better to turn on the humidifier. As for lighting, it should not be too bright. Every plant needs sunlight, but too much of it can be harmful for begonias. Moreover, protect the plant from direct rays, which will dry out the delicate leaves and petals.

IN different time The watering regime for begonias is different every year. If it doesn't need much water in winter and does well in slightly moist soil, it should be watered more often in summer. But, nevertheless, it is necessary to ensure that the soil is not too wet, otherwise the roots may rot.

The same applies to the flowering period of begonia. When the petals open, it needs more moisture than usual. But after the inflorescences fall off, you can return to your previous drinking regime.

It is impossible to say the exact amount of watering; it depends on the air quality and time of year. Your plant itself will let you know when it feels comfortable and when the watering regime should be changed.

Pay attention to the quality of the water with which you are going to irrigate your begonia. Regular tap water is not suitable due to its high chlorine content. To reduce it, boil it, pass the water through a filter, or let it settle.

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

Fertilizers for begonias

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

To choose the right fertilizer, you need to look for the inscription “for indoor plants”, and also pay attention to the composition. It should contain magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron. Avoid chlorine content. Today, gardening stores offer a wide selection of fertilizers that suit everyone. necessary requirements. In addition, there are special formulations designed specifically for this type of plant.

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

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

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

Before planting, you need to prepare the pot: pour expanded clay into the bottom, and then soil. The tuber should be placed on the ground with its flat side down, this is where the roots will appear. The other side has a concave shape and an uneven surface, which is formed by the buds. A purchased tuber should not be covered heavily with soil, otherwise it may not sprout. It is especially important to leave the middle open so that the sprouts can easily make their way up.

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

The first flowers last a long time - summer and almost all autumn, so you will have time to enjoy its unusual velvety petals. Begonia can also be planted in the garden during the warm season, just select the right variety and choose a place protected from direct sunlight.

Begonia has gained well-deserved popularity among gardeners. It is easy to care for and blooms throughout the warm season of the year and gives beauty and joy. Propagating begonia is also quite simple.

Seed propagation
Growing begonias using seeds should begin in January. Seeds are poured onto the soil and covered with glass or film. They should be irrigated with a spray bottle and kept in the light, but not in the sun, and at room temperature.

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

Begonia grown from seeds is prepared for wintering at the end of October. You need to remove dried and yellowed leaves from it and move it to a place well lit by artificial light.

Propagation by cuttings
To obtain begonia cuttings, it is necessary to plant tubers, which are called mother tubers, at the beginning of winter. After about a month, the cuttings should be carefully disconnected and the growing areas should be disinfected.

After this, they need to be dried a little and planted in the soil. The cuttings will produce roots approximately 3-4 weeks after planting, and then they can be distributed into separate pots. In this case, new tubers are not formed, and such begonias should be cared for in the same way as seed ones.

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

Before the start of winter, tuberous begonia should be cut at a height of approximately 2 cm from ground level, the roots should be pulled out and cleaned well. Within half a month, the tubers need to be dried, and then placed in a box and sprinkled with peat. So the begonia is stored in the cellar or refrigerator until it is time to plant it.

Begonia transplant

As the plant's root system develops, the container in which it is planted needs to be changed. If you immediately place it in a large pot, the part located underground will begin to rot. Therefore, experts recommend replanting begonia at least once every two years.

Begonia transplant scheme:

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

Begonia experiences stress after transplantation, so provide it comfortable conditions. The room temperature should be 22 degrees, the lighting should not be too bright, and the air should be humid. You should not immediately water the plant after replanting; wait a few days until it “takes root” in its new location. For a couple of months, it should be watered no more than once every seven days.

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

Video: the basics of successful begonia care

Caring for begonias will not be difficult even for a novice gardener. Give her just a little attention and she will delight you with her beauty.

Begonia. Types and varieties

Begonia was discovered by the French botanist Charles Plumier, who took part in a scientific expedition organized by Michel Begon in 1687 in the Antilles. This plant got its name in honor of Begon.

There are now more than 2,000 species of begonias. All types of begonia are divided into 3 groups:
— tuberous begonia (reproduced by tubers);
- leaf begonia (has a thickened root, which is used for propagation);
- bush begonia (reproduced by apical shoots and seeds).

Begonia is also divided into subshrubs, shrubs and herbaceous plants. Most often used for growing at home hybrid varieties, which in turn are divided into decorative flowering and decorative deciduous.

Most popular types flower growers have tuberous, decorative-flowering begonias. They have beautiful, large flowers of various shades: from white, pink to red. Most types of begonias bloom all summer, but when creating for them favorable conditions, can please you with their beautiful flowers both in autumn and even in winter.

Indoor begonia, home care

Indoor begonia is the most unpretentious plant and resistant to various diseases of indoor plants. Caring for it at home will not cause much trouble, but still, it must be competent so that your indoor plant developed correctly and had a beautiful, well-groomed appearance.

The begonia flower is a heat-loving plant, and the temperature for it must be maintained within +15+20°C, and in winter time— not lower than +15°С. But you should not place it near batteries and electric heaters.

The lighting should be bright, but without bright sunlight, so in the summer the flower should be shaded.

Watering and spraying

In spring and summer, begonias require abundant watering, but the plant should not be flooded, as it does not like stagnant water. In winter, the flower should be watered sparingly. When watering, it is necessary to avoid getting water on the leaves of the begonia, otherwise brown spots will form on them. Soft, settled water should be used.

For full care Begonia requires air of high humidity, but it is not recommended to spray the plant. Most the best option is to place pots of begonias on a tray of wet peat or moss.

Begonia, propagation at home

Begonia can be propagated at home, depending on the species, by leaf or tuberous cuttings.

Reproduction of tuberous begonia must be done as follows. In the fall, you need to remove the tubers, clean them from the ground, cut off the stems and store them in sand (peat), at a temperature of +8 +10 ° C. In February, the tubers are planted in moist soil.

Watering should be done moderately. It will take several weeks for the sprouts to germinate. As soon as shoots appear, the tubers should be cut into pieces and the cuts should be processed charcoal and dry.

Plant the separated tubers in small boxes, deepening the tubers only halfway. After 20-25 days, you can plant them in pots with a mixture of peat and leaf humus and place them in a bright place. During active growth, young begonias should be fed with organic fertilizers.

Leaf cuttings are best done in the spring. To propagate by leaf cuttings, it is necessary to cut off a leaf at the very base of the begonia stem, at least 5 cm long. Bury the cuttings into the prepared soil carefully so that the leaf does not come into contact with the soil, which must be well moistened after planting.

If for planting you use not leaf, but stem cutting, then its length should be more than 7 cm. It is necessary to plant the cuttings as quickly as possible so that the cut does not have time to dry out.

Begonia transplant

Begonias need to be replanted annually; it is better to do this in early spring. If you replant less frequently, the leaves of a begonia in a cramped pot begin to turn pale and lose their decorative effect.

To replant, you must first select a pot. When using a plastic pot, you will need to put a layer of expanded clay on the bottom, which absorbs excess moisture well. And sprinkle shells or coarse sand on top of the expanded clay to make the pot more stable.

You can also use a ceramic pot, which does not allow waterlogging and allows air to pass through well. But here you need to take into account that over time the roots will occupy all the space inside the pot and begin to grow to its walls. When transplanting from such a pot, the roots will be severely damaged.

When replanting, the soil should not be damp or too dry. The plant should be carefully removed from the pot, the soil should be removed and placed for 10-15 minutes in a weak solution of potassium permanganate. Then carefully examine the roots, cutting off small tangled or large rotten roots and sprinkle the cut areas with charcoal.

The soil for begonias should be nutritious and slightly acidic. It is better for begonias to use a mixture of peat, leaf and turf land, you can add a little coniferous land and coarse sand. It is advisable to prune the plant after replanting so that it recovers and grows faster. The transplanted plant needs to be sprayed daily and watered as soon as it begins to dry out. upper layer land. It is also recommended to keep the begonia in the shade for several days.

Growing begonia from seeds

It is best to start growing begonia from seeds in early January. To do this, you can use boxes with a sifted mixture of peat, leaf soil and sand. Moisten the soil for disinfection with a 0.1% solution of potassium permanganate. It is better to keep the crops under glass and evenly moisten them with heated water.

Such boxes with plants should be kept on the windowsill so that the plants have enough sunlight. When shoots appear after 2 weeks, the glass is removed. Plants should be picked at the stage of appearance of 2-3 leaves. A month later, carry out a second pick. At the beginning of May, young plants will need to be planted in separate pots.

Peculiarities home care behind the begonia

From spring to mid-autumn it is necessary to feed begonia with liquid complex fertilizers for ornamental plants.

After the plant has flowered, it should be dried without cutting the roots and stems by placing it in a dark place. Within a month, everything in the stems and roots, nutrients will enter the tuber. You need to dig up the resulting tuber about two weeks after the above-ground part of the plant has completely died off.

IN winter period tubers are placed in boxes with sand. The temperature in the room where the tubers are stored should not exceed +15°C. To prevent the tubers from drying out, they should be watered periodically.

Indoor begonia and its diseases

Why doesn't begonia bloom?

If the begonia does not bloom, then the reason for this may be that it was transplanted into a pot that is too spacious. Therefore, when replanting, it is important to take into account that the new pot in diameter should be no more than 2 cm wider than the old one. In order for begonia to bloom more luxuriantly, faded flowers should be carefully removed, as they interfere with the development of new buds. Flowering plant should be fed regularly.

Why do begonia leaves dry out?

If there is insufficient soil or air moisture, begonia leaves begin to dry, and flowers and buds begin to fall off. There is an urgent need to establish an irrigation system. If the leaves become pale or yellow, this indicates a lack of light for the flower. The appearance of brown edges on the leaves indicates dry air or exposure of the begonia to sunlight.

Overwatering the plant can cause gray rot, in this case, light mold appears on the leaves. The affected parts must be removed, and the plant itself must be treated with a fungicide.

In the presence of drafts, dry air or temperature changes, a white coating may form on the leaves - powdery mildew. In this case, the plant should be treated with ground sulfur or sprayed with a 1% solution of colloidal sulfur.

Of the pests, begonia is most often attacked spider mite or aphids. They should be combated by spraying the underside of the leaf. soap solutions tobacco Or you can treat the begonia with preparations containing pyrethrum or an insecticide.

What to look for when buying begonias

When purchasing a begonia, it should be carefully examined so as not to purchase a plant with a “bouquet” of diseases or pests. Pay attention to the healthy and bright color of the leaves, their normal turgor, the absence of plaque and dry spots.

Begonia is one of the most vibrant summer flowers. It is a small bush 15-30 centimeters in height. The flowers are large and lush, maybe different colors- from white to purple. The leaves are wide, look like an animal's paw, and have slits along the edges. When growing at home, you should follow simple rules care

Depending on the color there are rich green, red, pink or red-brown shades. It blooms in early summer and keeps the flower until late autumn. Plant is a good decoration and cleanses the air of dust and harmful bacteria.

The first mention of the flower appeared in the 17th century. A botanist from France, Charles Plumier, discovered the plant during a scientific trip to the Caribbean islands and named it in honor of his friend Michel Begon.

Care at home does not cause difficulties, but requires compliance with some rules. Proper care V room conditions guarantees that the plant will bloom and look great.

How to water

Since the plant is native to the tropics, it loves abundant watering.

Begonia at home - in the tropics

It is better to use for these purposes settled water. The amount and frequency of watering depend on the time of year.

From spring to mid-autumn at least 2 times a week, as the soil dries. In winter, watering is sharply reduced; a small amount of water once a week is enough. Tuberous Begonias stop watering because they are hibernating.

No need to spray leaves, because brown spots may form on them. To increase humidity in hot weather, just place a container of water next to the plant.

Lighting and temperature conditions

Flower loves bright and diffused light. But direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided. In summer, you can put Begonia on a windowsill or even plant it in the ground.

If the stem is strongly stretched, it is necessary to provide the plant with additional lighting.

To the temperature of the flower unpretentious. In winter it should be at least 15 degrees, and in summer no more than 26.

Soil and fertilizer for indoor flowers

Soil for planting a flower must be purchased ready-made at a flower shop or used in your own preparation. To do this, you need to mix a little sand, black soil and peat in equal quantities.

For healthy growth, Begonia requires fertilizer using minerals.

You can buy a specialized composition at any flower shop. Florists advise feeding the plant once every two weeks in the warm season, when buds form. After the plant stops flowering, fertilizing is not required.

Choosing a growing pot

The material of the pot can be anything: plastic, ceramic, clay. The main thing to pay attention to is the volume. It depends entirely on the size of the plant.

In a clay pot, moisture is retained the least, which means the plant will require more watering.

Firstly, he must be wide, since the flower has a fibrous root system. Small Begonias can be planted in short pots up to 15 centimeters in size. As it grows, it should be transplanted into a deeper container. The roots of the plant should fit freely in the flowerpot and not bend.

Secondly, it must be in a pot there must be holes for water so that the soil does not become sour from excessive watering.

Thirdly, it is worth stopping the choice on sustainable options dishes, otherwise the lush Begonia bush may fall.

Trimming

The bush can be given any shape, depending on taste preferences. As soon as the size of the lateral processes becomes more than 10 centimeters, their tops are also cut off, and the cut points are treated with charcoal.

If you do not trim it in time, the leaves may shrink and flowering will be short.

Plant pests and diseases

Red spider mite. The control method is to treat the plant with an insecticide.
Powdery mildew – fungal disease, appearing from excess moisture. To get rid of the fungus, you should remove the infected leaves and reduce watering.
– incorrect temperature regime. The plant should be placed in a cooler place.
Falling buds– there may be several reasons: excessive watering, little light or insufficient fertilizer.
Yellowed sheet plates – little moisture or depleted soil.
No flowering– violation of the rules of care. For example, non-compliance with thermal and light conditions. If you follow all the above care rules, there will be no problems.

Reproduction

There are several methods of reproduction.

tuber

First the plant needs dig up and divide into several parts, each of which will have a kidney. The cut site is treated with crushed ash or coal.

Afterwards, all the tubers are placed in a bowl with moistened soil and covered with film. As soon as the first leaves appear, the film is removed.

Seeds

The easiest and most common method of reproduction. The procedure is carried out in winter. The seeds are planted in a pot and created greenhouse conditions, covered with film. It is important that the soil is always moist. At the first shoots, small Begonias are planted individually in plastic cups and wait for the plants to get stronger. Then everything happens as during a regular transplant.

Cuttings

This type of propagation applies to bush species.

This requires a stem with two or more buds. You need to step back five millimeters from the lower bud and make a cut. Then the prepared cutting is placed in the ground and covered.

How to transplant correctly

Regularity of transplantation depends on the type of plant. If it is a tuberous flower, then it is required every year. If Begonia is of the rhizomatous type, then as it grows.

For replanting, purchase specialized soil for Begonias. You can cook it yourself. For this purpose, deciduous soil, black soil and peat are taken. The ratio is 2:1:1, respectively. The main requirement is lightness and looseness.

The flower is carefully removed from the container.
Old soil carefully removed from the roots. The roots themselves are dipped into a weak solution of potassium permanganate for a while.
After processing, a previously prepared new pot, larger in size, is taken. A layer of stones and sand is placed at its bottom, then the soil is ready and a flower is planted in it.
Earth Don't fill it to the brim, it is better to do this in a few days.

The first month after transplanting the plant requires special care. The first thing you need to do is water the flower well, but do this no more than once a week. The tubers are carefully spudded, water should not get on their top. Fertilizer is not required during this period.

Temperature is very important. 20-22 degrees is considered optimal. Drafts should also be avoided.

Begonia always brings joy and good mood to the house on for a long time. And caring for her is not difficult and does not take much time.