How to care for begonias: root, tuberous, hybrid flowers. What to do if the flowering begonia species does not bloom? home plants begonia

Begonia (lat. Begonia) is an annual or perennial plant belonging to the flowering department, the dicotyledonous class, the gourd order, the begonia family, the begonia genus.

Begonia got its name in honor of Michel Begon, the governor of Haiti, the organizer and sponsor of scientific research on the flora of the Antilles in 1687.

Begonia: flower description, characteristics and photo. What does a begonia look like?

Begonia grows different ways: in the form of grasses creeping along the ground, tall upright bushes or semi-shrubs. well developed root system begonias are branched, fibrous or tuberous. Begonia, which has a root in the form of tubers, can be grown not only indoors, but also in the garden. Other types of begonias are grown only at home.

The begonia leaf has an asymmetric shape. It can be whole or dissected into several lobules with wavy or jagged edges.

In most plants, the lower part of the leaf is colored in reddish, brown or dark purple colors, and the upper part is either a solid green or a variety of colors with geometric patterns, strokes and splashes. In some species of begonias, the surface of the stems and leaves is covered with small villi.

Begonia inflorescences consist of several small, medium or large flowers. The color of begonias is solid red, pink, yellow, orange, white, or with a border of various shades along the edges of the petals. The plant has a complex inflorescence - it consists of male and female flowers, over which, after pollination, a fruit is formed that has the shape of a trihedral box with small seeds inside.

Begonias bloom in summer and autumn, and indoor begonias can bloom until December.

Begonia: varieties, types, photos and names

The begonia genus includes about 1600 species, but only 125 of them and all kinds of hybrids are used for decorative purposes. Still does not exist common system plant classifications, and in foreign and Russian-language sources are completely different variants classifications.

Professor V.V. Vorontsov, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, highlighted the following conditional types begonias:

• decorative leafy begonias;
• shrub begonias;
• tuberous begonias;
• beautiful flowering begonias.

Deciduous begonias (deciduous-deciduous)

Deciduous begonia does not have a common aerial stem, and long, pubescent leaves grow immediately from a branched root. This type of begonia impresses with the beauty of its leaves, which have a variety of shapes and colors. Leaf color can be green, red, silver, yellow, white or brown. Leaves can be both monophonic and multi-colored, with various spots and borders.

Most famous species and varieties of decorative leafy begonias:

• Begonia royal (begonia Rex) (lat. Begonia rex)

A hybrid species with rounded or oval leaves 30 cm long with serrated edges. Their color varies from brownish pink to purple and violet. Begonia leaves are decorated with a white, silver or green border.

• Begonia Metallica (metal) (lat. Begonia metallica)

A plant with small (10-15 cm long) olive-green pubescent leaves of an ovoid shape, the edges of which are indented with teeth. The upper part of the leaves of this species seems to be covered with metallic pollen.

• tiger begonia (Bauer's begonia) (lat.Begonia bowerae )

A plant with medium-sized green serrated heart-shaped leaves and an animal pattern of brown or dark gray.

• Mason's begonia(lat. begonia masoniana)

A deciduous begonia that grows in New Guinea and is of particular value due to its unusual leaf pattern, reminiscent of brown Maltese crosses. The length of the leaves can reach 20 cm, the leaves of old begonias acquire a characteristic silver hue. The height of the plant usually does not exceed 20-35 cm. The flowers are medium-sized, light beige.

• Begonia Cleopatra(lat. Begonia cleopatra)

A species characterized by very decorative leaves similar to maple leaves. The outer side of the leaves is painted in intense green or olive color, from below the leaves can be burgundy or bright red. A distinctive feature of this type of begonias are elongated fleshy leaf cuttings, densely covered with white or gray hairs. The height of the bush usually does not exceed 30 cm, in rare cases it reaches 50 cm. Cleopatra begonia blooms in January and February, then the plant throws out thin flower stalks strewn with groups of white-pink flowers.

• Collar begonia, she is cuff begonia (lat.Begonia manicata )

A plant native to Mexico with a creeping stem and large hairy light green leaves up to 30 cm in diameter, growing on long cuttings. Begonia got its name due to the thick cuff of red villi that borders the stalk right under the leaf. In winter, adult plants form about 5 peduncles up to 60 cm long, decorated with an elegant brush of bright pink flowers.

• red-leaved begonia(lat. Begonia erythrophylla)

A South American species characterized by short, fleshy stems and glossy, rounded leaves that are green above and deep red below. The maximum height of a begonia bush is 35-40 cm. In the middle of summer, it blooms with medium-sized pinkish flowers.

bush begonia

The bush begonia has densely growing articulated, branched stems that look like bamboo shoots. The plant is a shrub with numerous side shoots. The leaves have a variety of shapes and colors. Flowers are beautiful and graceful. The root is thick and fleshy, not divided into parts. Bush begonia blooms all year round. Varieties of begonias are both annual and perennial. The height of the bushes is from 10 cm to 2 meters.

Among the representatives of this variety of begonias, the following types are very popular:

• Begonia coral (lat. Begonia corallina)

A plant with erect bare stems reaching a length of 0.5-1 m. The front side of the oblong ovate leaves has a dark green color with silvery speckles, and the reverse side is a brownish-red color. Dense inflorescences of coral begonias consist of simple small flowers.

• Begonia fuchsia (lat. Begonia fuchsioides)

A plant with strongly branching tall stems (up to 1 m) and large oval green leaves with a glossy surface. Rare hanging flowers of fuchsia begonia are painted in all shades of red.

Tuberous begonia has a tuberous rhizome, fleshy translucent stems up to 80 cm high, simple or double flowers, similar to camellias or peonies. Flowers can be both small and large, solitary and in inflorescences, with a diameter of 3 to 20 cm. Plants are herbaceous, shrubby or ampelous. The leaves are heart-shaped, they can be either fluffy matte or glossy, flat or corrugated. The color of the leaves contains all shades of green: from light to dark. The flowering of tuberous begonia is long and very beautiful, lasts from May to October.

Popular varieties of erect tuberous begonias:

• Begonia Picoti Harlequin (Picotee Arlequin )

A semi-spreading plant with a height of no more than 0.25 m with large (up to 12 cm in diameter) double flowers of yellow color, which have a bright red border. Leaves are green and toothed.

• Begonia Bouton de Rose (Bouton de rose )

A low compact bush with double flowers similar to a rose, reaching 18 cm in size. Petals white or soft Pink colour. The leaves of begonias of the Buton de Rose variety are green, large, with a wavy edge.

• Begonia Duck Red (Dark red )

A low-growing shrub with semi-spreading stems and large, finely toothed green leaves. Terry dark red flowers of this variety of begonias do not exceed 10 cm in diameter and resemble a peony.

• Begonia Crispa Marginata (lat.Crispa marginata ) - a sprawling plant with green leaves that have a purple edging. The height of the begonia is 15 cm. The flower is delicate yellow or white color with red border and curly edges.

Ampel varieties of tuberous begonia:

• - a tuberous variety of begonia with long, falling stems strewn bright flowers on long flower shoots. The flowering period lasts from early spring to late autumn. One of the most popular varietal groups of ampelous begonia is the Chanson series, which strikes with a variety of colors and shades. The following varieties of ampelous begonias deserve attention:
  • Rocsana- flowers are large, double, orange;
  • Christy- flowers are white, terry;
  • Girl- flowers are semi-double, pale pink.

• Bolivian begonia(lat. Begonia boliviensis) - a type of ampelous begonia, the shoots of which first grow upwards, and upon reaching a height of 30 cm elegantly fall down in the form of a multi-tiered flower cascade. The following varieties of Bolivian begonia are especially popular:
  • Santa Cruz Sunset F1- a strong, sprawling plant, forming drooping shoots, up to 40 cm long. From the beginning of summer to October, it is covered with many red-orange, fuchsia-shaped flowers;
  • Copacabana F1- a hardy and unpretentious creeping plant, strewn with many bright red bell-shaped flowers during the flowering period;
  • Bossa NovaF1- a sprawling plant with a shoot length of up to 50 cm, from spring to frost strewn with fuchsia flowers of red, orange, pink or white.

Blooming begonia (beautifully flowering, ornamental flowering)

This group includes begonias with very beautiful simple and double flowers of various colors. The most popular are the following types and varieties of begonias:

• Begonia evergreen (lat. Begonia semperflorens)

It unites an extensive group of varieties that have a remarkable property to bloom all summer, regardless of weather conditions.
Most famous varieties ever blooming begonias

• Baby Wing

A series of varieties of powerful plants with green and bronze leaves and plain or variegated flowers of various colors.

• Ambassador

A series of varieties of begonias with original green leaves, bordered by a thin strip of red and with the most diverse colors.

• cocktail

Abundantly flowering low bush with brick-colored leaves and simple flowers characteristic of begonia coloring.

• Begonia Elatior (lat. Begonia elatior)

A hybrid variety from England, obtained by crossing the tuberous begonia and the Socotran begonia. Due to the ability of year-round flowering, this plant was named winter begonia (lat. Begonia hiemalis). It is a compact shrub, about 40 cm high, with a thick stem and bright, glossy leaves about 8 cm long, in the shape of an asymmetrical heart with serrated edges. Numerous simple or double flowers form multi-tiered inflorescences growing on long pedicels. Elatior begonia varieties, depending on the height of the bush, are divided into 3 types:

- high (about 40 cm) (for example, varieties Louise, Renaissance, Schwabenland);

- medium (about 30 cm) (for example, varieties Kyoto, Annebell, Bellona);

- undersized (not higher than 25 cm) (for example, varieties Scharlach, Lachsorange, Piccora)

• Begonia Gloire de Lorrain(Begonia Gloire de L orraine)

Like begonia Elatior, it belongs to winter-flowering varieties. It was bred in France in 1891 by crossing the Socotrans begonia (Begonia socotrana) and the Drega begonia (Begonia dregei). This rather sprawling, low plant is distinguished by rounded glossy leaves of light green color with a red speck at the base. Begonia blooms begin in the fall and continue throughout the winter. simple flowers form drooping brushes of pink color. The most popular varieties of the group:

Competitor- sprawling, spectacular bush, strewn with intense pink flowers;

Marina - undersized plant with deep pink flowers growing on short flower shoots;

Rosemary- a variety of Swiss selection with many small, pink flowers.

Where does the begonia flower grow?

IN wild nature begonia grows in tropical rainforests and in highlands. Most types of begonias are found in Argentina and Brazil, Venezuela and Bolivia, Peru and Chile, India, Pakistan, the Malay Islands, Sri Lanka and the western part of the African continent. Despite suitable climatic conditions, the begonia flower does not grow in the expanses of Australia and the islands of Polynesia.

In room conditions, these flowers can grow all over the world, the main thing is to create the necessary microclimate for begonias.

Begonia garden: planting and care in the open field

In mid-latitudes, almost all types of begonias are grown indoors, with the exception of tuberous begonia, which can also be grown in open field.

Planting begonias in the garden is done in early June, when the threat of frost disappears. For the plant, you need to choose places slightly shaded or with diffused sunlight. Before planting a begonia in open ground, the seedling is hardened off by placing it for a week in a well-lit room with an average daytime temperature of 23-27 0 C and a night temperature of 12-15 0 C.

The best soil for begonias is soil mixtures that include leafy soil, humus, peat and sand, combined in a ratio of 1: 0.5: 0.5: 0.5. Drainage is poured at the bottom of the hole (expanded clay, fine gravel or coarse sand). After that, a mixture of peat and compost is added to it, which can be replaced with complex potassium-phosphorus fertilizers. The begonia planted in the garden needs to be watered, and the ground around it should be sprinkled with wood ash. In order to avoid hypothermia of the seedling at night, it is covered with a film or agrofiber.

Proper care of tuberous begonias in the open field is not particularly difficult. It is necessary to regularly loosen the ground near the flower, providing oxygen access to the tubers. Garden begonias should be watered depending on the amount of precipitation, usually this is done every 3 days. With the onset of a dry period, the frequency of watering increases with subsequent loosening of the soil. Be careful when watering begonias: the plant feels comfortable at high humidity, but absolutely does not tolerate drops of water on the leaves, as this can lead to a disease such as gray rot.

Begonia in landscape design looks simply amazing and allows you to create magnificent flower beds that will delight you all summer long!

Autumn begonia care

In autumn, after the leaves fall, the plant is prepared for winter:

• begonia stop watering;
• in the first decade of October, begonia tubers are removed from the ground;
• the stem of the begonia is cut off, leaving a process of 3 cm from it;
• tubers are dried at room temperature for 14 days;
• Begonia tubers are placed in wooden box by filling them with sand;
• tubers are stored in a room with a temperature not lower than 5-6 0 С.

When to dig up begonias?

No need to rush to dig up begonia for the winter immediately after the onset of cold weather. After all, in the fall, the plant grows especially intensively tubers and accumulates nutrients in them, at the same time the laying of future flower buds. Begonia must be kept in the soil for as long as possible so that the aerial part turns yellow and dries. Then the entire supply of photosynthesis products from the leaves will inevitably “drain” to the tubers.

Garden begonia growing in a flower bed is dug up with a pitchfork, it is carefully removed with a clod of earth, and, without removing the aerial part, they are laid out in a dry, cool room. A month later, dead stems and soil residues are completely removed. For storage, begonia tubers are placed in containers with dry sand or peat and sprayed once a month with a spray bottle.

Begonias growing in pots can not be dug up, but wait for the stems to completely die off and put away for storage right in the pot. In February-March, begonias begin to be watered, and with the advent of young shoots, they are transplanted into a new container.

Begonia care at home

The question of how to care for begonia at home is of interest to many lovers of indoor plants. In fact, caring for indoor begonias is quite simple. This plant is light-loving, but does not like the direct rays of the sun, so window sills that face east, southeast, northwest or west are used to place it. The main condition: that there are no drafts.

most favorable temperature regime ranges from 22 to 25 0 C in summer and from 15 to 18 0 C in winter. The soil for home begonia is used the same as for growing begonia in the garden: leafy soil, humus, peat and sand in a ratio of 1: 0.5: 0.5: 0.5.

It is necessary to water the begonia in a pot in spring and summer with settled water, preventing the earthen coma from drying out and waterlogging. IN winter time watering of deciduous and bush flowers is reduced to a minimum. Tuberous types of begonias cease to moisten, they shed their leaves, after which all dried parts are removed from the plant, and the tubers wait out the cold in dry peat soil.

Top dressing of room begonia is important for the successful development of the plant, and nitrogen fertilizers that stimulate foliage growth are suitable for leafy species, and phosphorus-containing fertilizers for flowering ones.

Begonia transplant

Tuberous types of begonias are transplanted into a new pot and soil every spring, and varieties with a branched or fibrous root need such a procedure when the pot has become small. The plant is removed from the old container and its roots are immersed in a solution of potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate) for disinfection. After removing the damaged parts, the plant is planted in a larger pot with fresh soil.

Reproduction of begonias, methods and photos

Spring is the best time for breeding begonias. Breeding methods:

• rooting cuttings with several (3-5) leaves;
• dividing the bush into parts with separate roots;
• cutting a large tuber into several parts with sprouts;
• leaves, cutting large veins on the reverse side of the leaf and immersing it with a cut down in wet sand;
• seedlings from seeds germinated at the end of winter.

Propagation of begonias by cuttings

Cuttings are one of the most common ways to propagate begonias. Many amateur flower growers use it due to the fact that it:

• easy to perform;
• gives fast results;
• suitable for all stem begonias;
• retains all varietal characteristics.

To propagate begonia in this way, it is enough to cut cuttings at least 10 cm long with a sharp knife. To do this, you can use both the upper and middle parts of the stem. The main condition for a good cutting is the presence of at least two or three buds on it. After that, all excess leaves are removed from it, leaving only one or two top ones. If the leaves are large, cut them in half.

After completing the preparatory operations, you can begin to root the cuttings. Florists use two methods for this:

• rooting in water;
• rooting in the ground.

Cuttings that will be used for rooting in water do not need further processing. For the material that will be germinated in the substrate, the sections must be sprinkled with wood ash and dried.

• Rooting begonias in water

Begonia cuttings are lowered into a container of water, the temperature of which should not differ from the temperature of the room where germination will be carried out. Only soft water can be used, as hard or cold water may be detrimental to the future plant. A container with cuttings is placed in a room with a temperature of 18-20 ° C, well lit by indirect sunbeams. It is advisable to use a transparent container to constantly monitor the condition of the cut. If signs of rotting of the begonia stalk are noticed, the cut is updated, and a fresh portion of water is poured into the container. After the appearance of roots about 1-2 cm long on the handle, it can be transplanted into a pre-prepared pot with suitable soil.

• Rooting begonias in the ground (substrate)

As a substrate used for rooting cuttings, it is desirable to use begonia soil purchased in specialized stores. However, you can use sand with peat, mixed in a ratio of 3:1. For successful rooting, the room temperature should be in the range of 22-24 ° C. The pot for germination should be selected small size so that the rooted plant not only grows, but also blooms abundantly.

The lower cut of the cutting before planting in the ground must be treated with drugs that stimulate root formation. The seedling is buried in a well-moistened substrate to the level of leaves. After that, the pot with the handle is covered with a glass jar or plastic bottle. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that not a single part of the cutting touches the walls or the lid.

The condensate that appeared on the walls indicates the correct microclimate in a kind of greenhouse. To harden the plant, you need to remove the jar or bottle for several minutes every day and ventilate the future begonia. When the first leaves appear, shelter is no longer produced.

Propagation of begonias by dividing a bush or rhizomes

Bush begonias with a well-developed branched root system can be propagated by dividing the bush or rhizomes. To do this, in the spring, the plant is removed from the pot along with a clod of earth, so as not to damage the roots. After that, the old stems and peduncles, as well as leaves, are removed from the begonia. large sizes. The rhizomes are carefully freed from lumps of earth and, with the help of a sharp knife, are divided into several parts. The main condition is the presence of a shoot or bud on each of them. Sections are immediately treated with wood ash. The separated parts are planted in pots with a substrate, which should be used as a special soil for begonias, purchased in flower shops. After abundant watering, the separated plants are exposed to a room with good lighting (but not under direct sunlight) and a temperature of 20-25 ° C.

Hybrid begonia Elatior Ceveca

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

The origin of begonia and distinctive features

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

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

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

Characteristic features of begonias:

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

Video: a wealth of types and colors of a flower

Begonias - flowers for apartments, gardens and offices

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

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

Varieties of root begonias

everblooming

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

Examples of plants in the photo

coral

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

leafy begonias

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

Photo gallery: Deciduous begonias

Varieties of tuberous begonias

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

Photo gallery: Tuberous begonias

Elatior or hybrid begonias

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

Photo gallery: Begonias Elatior

Ampel begonias

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

Photo gallery: Ampel begonias

Conditions for keeping begonias depending on the season - table

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

Video: Tuberous begonias: rest period and cultivation

Planting begonias

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

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

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

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

Photo gallery: What you need for a begonia transplant

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

Begonia transplant steps:

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

Video: How to transplant begonia

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

Begonia care

Watering

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

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

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

top dressing

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

The frequency of top dressing depending on the season - table

Video: How to care for begonias

Why is the begonia not blooming?

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

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

Reproduction of begonias

cutting

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

This method can propagate all begonias that have stems.

leaf

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

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

Part of a leaf

First way

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

Second way

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

tuber

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

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

seeds

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

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

Video: Reproduction of begonias by seeds

An unpretentious flower that came to our homes and gardens from distant tropics attracted the attention of millions of flower growers. Caring for begonia at home is not difficult and is available to everyone. original form leaves, various types of inflorescences, a tall and mundane version - all this is a majestic begonia. With her beauty, she charmed more than one generation of men and women.

Today, about 1000 species of it are known and ornamental varieties, as well as 2000 bred hybrids.

Pleasant acquaintance with the queen of the tropics

Among the huge number of types and classifications of begonias, the main ones can be noted:

• deciduous varieties;
• flowering species;
• deciduous;
• evergreen;
• tall;
• creeping begonias on the ground;
• with tuberous roots;
• with strong rhizomes;
• perennial varieties;
• annual species;
• street options;
• indoor begonias.

Each plant has beautiful unusual leaves. Big and small, green and red, glossy and velvet, plain and patterned. Most of them resemble maple or palm leaves, which makes the flower original.

No less attractive are the forms of the hardwood plate. Some of them are large, like burdocks or the ears of an African elephant. Others are round, resembling glossy plates. There are varieties whose leaves are cut along the edges, which creates the appearance of asymmetry.

The main vein of the leaf divides it in half into two different parts. Therefore, they always have a bizarre shape. On the stem, the leaves sit in the form of a mosaic. This allows them not to obscure each other from the main light source.

The upper part of the leaf plate is most often green. Depending on the variety, gradation of shades is allowed. The back side of the sheet is painted in red, purple or brown.

Delicate hairs on the stem and leaves of the plant look royal. They are painted scarlet or green, white or bronze. Thanks to this, begonia has a delicate and velvety appearance, which you want to touch.

The originality of the leaves is given by intricate patterns, various spots or strokes. Sometimes, it seems that the leaves are the flowers of decorative begonia.

So that the leaves do not lose their original beauty, they should not be sprayed. When water drops get on them, stains appear. Subsequently, the leaf dies.

In fact, when the plant blooms, you understand that the leaves are just a prelude to the magnificent decoration. Begonia inflorescences delight the eye with such colors:

• scarlet and rich red;
• snow-white and milky;
• pink and soft lilac;
• brilliant yellow and orange.

In addition, these lovely bouquets exude a pleasant aroma. When the plant fades, miniature boxes appear on the stems, inside of which are seeds. Ripened "capacities" crack, and they scatter around. Thanks to this, the earth is filled with new colors.

As practice shows, begonia has spread throughout the earth and has taken root perfectly in the middle latitudes. Since her main residence is a living space, it is important to properly care for her.

Simple rules for caring for begonias

The houses in which tropical beauties find their refuge resemble a haven of pleasure. They constantly delight the eye of the household with lush greenery or the charm of flowers. Without due attention to the plant, this cannot be achieved. By adhering to simple rules for caring for begonias at home, you can create a piece of paradise in your home.

A guest from the tropics does not require special attention, but the main principles must be followed.

Enough light

Since the home of the queen of indoor plants is the tropics, she constantly needs lighting. If it is not enough, the plant will lose its decorative effect. At the same time, it is important that it be of a diffuse nature. Bright rays of light often provoke burn marks on the leaves. To create comfortable light conditions, it is recommended to place begonias in shaded areas of the house.

To create a beautiful crown, the pot can be periodically exposed to the light.

Optimum air humidity

When the question arises: how to care for begonias, adjusting the humidity in the room is not the last place. This plant needs high humidity air, but not by spraying.

To solve the problem, you can make such a design. Place the plant pot on a small stand. Then it is placed on a wide pallet, which is covered with expanded clay around the edges (moss can also be used). After that, it must be moistened regularly so that evaporation occurs. As a result, the begonia gets its dose of moisture.

Competent watering

To ensure competent care of begonias, weather and watering should be taken into account. Although it originally grew in the tropics, where there is a lot of rainfall, you should not overfill it.

To avoid overflow, drainage is poured into the bottom of the container into which the begonia is planted. Thus, excess fluid freely comes out. It is important to ensure that water does not stagnate in the pan.

It is better to water the begonia with a clean settled liquid. The operation is recommended to be repeated as the top layer of soil dries.

It is wise to adhere to such a begonia watering scheme:

1. In the summer months, the plant should be watered abundantly twice a week.
2. When there is intense heat outside, moisten the soil every day.
3. In autumn (starting from October) - as the upper part of the soil dries.
4. In winter, the plant does not need abundant moisture. Only on demand.
5. With the beginning of spring, the amount of watering should be gradually increased to stimulate the growth of the plant.

It is advisable to act in accordance with the needs of begonia, given its type and flowering period.

Regular feeding

In order for begonia flowers to always be juicy, you need to feed them regularly. For this, there are special fertilizers.

As soon as the begonia begins to bloom, it requires top dressing. Therefore, once every 14 days, the soil is fattened with useful minerals.

If it is included in the chemical top dressing, it is used for deciduous begonia species.

Creating lush bushes

An exotic guest from the tropics almost always looks perfect. However, in some cases, it loses its decorative effect. To correct this flaw, the plant is advised to prune. At a height of about 5 cm from the edge of the vase, cuts are made. Thanks to this, the lateral buds come to life and begin to actively develop.

It is advisable to trim the branches with a sharp knife so as not to damage the begonia inflorescences.

Gentle care of flowers

Most often, you can enjoy flowering begonias in the summer, on bright sunny days. Only a few varieties bloom all year round. Therefore, caring gardeners, during this period, try to gently take care of the flowers. To prevent the plant from depleting, some of the buds are plucked. As a result, the plant gets sick less. Looking at the photo of begonia flowers, you can imagine what a pleasure it is to take care of such a plant.

Applying these simple rules for caring for begonias, you involuntarily get a lot of positive emotions. But, what will help to grow such a queen of the tropics at home? Reasonable advice from flower growers.

Growing begonias at home

Before planting a begonia at home, you need to choose a suitable container. Most best option- ceramic pots. They should be slightly larger than the root system of the plant by 4 cm. If the container is too spacious, then the plant may suffer from excess moisture. As a result, the flowering period is disturbed.

The soil can be bought ready-made or prepared independently. Take some leafy soil, add sand and humus there. Plant the plant in the prepared mixture.

In order for the cultivation and care of begonias at home to bring worthy results, it is important, for starters, to plant it correctly.

Drainage is placed at the bottom of the prepared container. The next layer (3 cm) is charcoal, which serves as a means of protection against rot. Then a plant is placed here with a small amount of soil. The resulting voids are filled with prepared soil. After that, the begonia is watered abundantly.

It is desirable to plant a plant in mid-March. Just at this time, there is enough light for young begonias.

The queens of the tropics are first germinated in trays, not buried in the soil. They are placed in well-lit rooms at a temperature not lower than 16 degrees and high humidity. When the plant takes root, it is planted in a permanent place in early spring.

It is also important to know how to transplant correctly. As it grows and takes root, it becomes necessary to move it to another pot. To do this, first, the soil is abundantly poured with water so that the plant can be freely removed from there. It is better to transplant it the next day so that the soil is not wet, but slightly damp.

When the plant is already in a new pot, it is important to fill it with earth to the brim and immediately fill it with water. After a week, the soil will sit down, and the top layer will dry out. If necessary, add the missing volume of soil. During the first week, begonias can not be watered, but only periodically sprayed. Also carefully protect it from drafts and bright lighting.

If the begonia is not blooming, home care involves periodic pruning of the plant's branches. Especially after the transplant. This approach helps to create beautiful bushes and decorative forms.

Reproduction of overseas beauty

A unique tropical flower reproduces in several ways:

• method of sowing seeds;
• tuber division;
• cuttings;
• separation of bushes;
• root cutting.

The most suitable period for breeding begonias is spring or the first month of summer.

Sowing seeds

Sowing seeds is recommended at the end of winter or in the first week of March. They are scattered on the ground in a special container. Without covering with earth from above, cover with glass and take it to a warm, bright place. You can water the surface with a sprayer.

When the third leaf appears, the begonia is dived for the first time. Second 2 months later. Then the begonias are transplanted into separate pots, where they take root. With a lack of light, additional lighting is used.

The sooner the seeds are sown, the faster the begonia will bloom.

Tuber division

This method of reproduction is performed by cutting the begonia tuber into pieces. Places of cuts are sprinkled charcoal to let them dry. After that, germinate in flower vases or boxes.

cuttings

Propagation cuttings should have at least 3 leaves. Slices must be sprinkled with powdered activated charcoal. The plant takes root in 1 month at a temperature of 21 degrees and high humidity.

The division of the bushes

This method is applied for bush species begonias. The whole bush, together with the root, is cut into pieces. Then planted in separate flower vases.

Cutting the rhizome

This method is important to use in the spring, when transplanting a plant. It is desirable to cut the rhizome so that an escape with a root and a kidney is obtained. Each part is planted in a separate pot.

Sad reality - diseases

How sad to watch when a begonia loses unblown flower buds or leaves. Sometimes this is due to dry air, lack of water or light. Such problems are easily solved.

But when the plant strikes spider mite or aphids, more effort is needed. The insect settles on the back side of the leaf and, like a cancer cell, feed on the sap of the plant. To rid the begonia of pests, it is recommended to spray diseased leaves with special substances.

Begonia, of course, will not be able to thank its owner for the attention and care. But, it will thoroughly clean the air in the room. Will give positive emotions during flowering. Decorate in an original way home interior or homestead. It will also remind you of the beauty of the earthly paradise that once existed on earth.

Tuberous begonia care rules - video

If you are a novice florist, then begonia will be the most the right choice for your home green corner. This plant is not only beautiful, but also unpretentious. Everyone can learn how to care for him, and he, in turn, will bestow his sunny appearance and refreshing aroma.

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

What conditions are needed for begonias

Indoor begonia grows in pots. They need to be located away from heating devices. Best of all, the plant feels in a corner specially designated for plants. The optimum air temperature for begonias is room temperature. 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 the lighting, it should not be too bright. Sunlight is necessary for every plant, but for begonias, its excess can harm. Moreover, protect the plant from direct rays, which will dry out the delicate leaves and petals.

At different times of the year, the mode of watering begonias is different. If it doesn't need a lot of water in winter and thrives in slightly damp soil, it should be watered more frequently 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 begonias. When the petals open, she needs more moisture than usual. But after the inflorescences fall, you can return to the previous drinking regimen.

It is impossible to say the exact amount of watering, it depends on air quality and time of year. Your plant will let you know when it feels comfortable and when it needs to be watered.

Pay attention to the quality of the water with which you are going to irrigate the begonia. Ordinary tap water will not work due to the high chlorine content. To reduce it, boil, pass water through a filter or let it stand.

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 keep the plant comfortable, water warm water. Refrain from spraying the leaves, as they may change color.

Fertilizers for begonias

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

To choose the right top dressing, 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. Presented in gardening stores today wide choose fertilizers that meet all necessary requirements. In addition, there are special formulations designed specifically for this type of plant.

You should also pay attention to the time for which fertilizers are intended. Some are introduced during the period of budding, others in the second half of flowering. On average, begonias are 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 the tubers of this plant. They are available 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 a broken sprout, so the begonia will begin to delight you with its flowering much earlier.

Before planting, it is necessary to prepare a pot: pour expanded clay on the bottom, and then soil. The tuber should be placed on the ground flat side down, that's where the roots will come from. The other side is concave and uneven surface that the kidneys form. A purchased tuber should not be heavily sprinkled with earth, 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 earth around the tuber should be moistened periodically, 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. A month later, the begonia will acquire the features of an "adult" plant, and may soon bloom.

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

Begonia has gained well-deserved popularity among gardeners. It is not whimsical in care and blooms throughout the warm period of the year and gives beauty and joy. Propagating begonias is also quite simple.

seed propagation
Growing begonias with seeds should begin in January. Seeds are poured onto the soil and covered with glass or film. It is worth irrigating them with a spray bottle and keeping them 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. For all the time that the begonia grows, it needs to be transplanted 3 times. By the end of August, the first flowers will appear that will delight you all autumn.

Begonia grown from seeds is prepared for wintering at the end of October. Dried and yellowed leaves must be removed from it and rearranged in a well-lit artificial light place.

Reproduction by cuttings
To get begonia cuttings, it is necessary to plant tubers at the beginning of winter, which are called uterine. After about a month, the cuttings should be carefully disconnected, and the fusion sites should be disinfected.

After that, they need to be dried a little and planted in the soil. The roots of the cuttings will give about 3-4 weeks after planting, and then they can be distributed in separate pots. At the same time, new tubers are not formed, and such begonias should be cared for in the same way as seed begonias.

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

Before the onset of winter, tuberous begonia should be cut at a height of about 2 cm from ground level, pull out the roots and clean well. During the crescent, 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 the time of planting.

Begonia transplant

As the root system of the plant develops, the container in which it is planted must be changed. If you immediately place it in a large pot, then the part that is underground will begin to rot. Therefore, experts recommend replanting begonias at least once every two years.

Begonia transplant scheme:

• lay a newspaper on the table and place a plant pot next to it;
• take a knife and run it along the walls, disconnecting the ground 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;
• lay the bottom of the new pot with expanded clay and cover with earth with a layer of 1 cm;
• place a begonia in it and gently sprinkle 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 is under stress after transplantation, so provide it with comfortable conditions. The air temperature in the room should be at 22 degrees, the lighting is not too bright, and the air is humid. Do not immediately water the plant after transplantation, wait a few days until it "takes root" in a new place. 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 at home or just love houseplants, begonia must appear in your apartment. This plant does not need special care, but blooms very beautifully for a long time. It will bring coziness and summer mood to your home.

Video: the basics of successful begonia care

Begonia is useful for people with weakened energy. Helps generate new ideas. Very useful for teachers, writers, journalists.

Begonia is one of the most popular ornamental flowering and ornamental deciduous plants. They absorb toxic substances, so it’s good to start them immediately after repairing the apartment.

There is a playful nickname for begonias - "Napoleon's ear", which she received after the war for the similarity of the red underside of the leaf with the frostbitten ears of the French during their inglorious retreat.

Magic and astrology begonias

Begonia is simply necessary in the homes where pessimists live, it will contribute to the creation Have a good mood. Begonia, like geranium with azalea, contributes to personal success.

Begonia is Aries, a fire sign. All Aries, both people and plants, are energetic, they begin to want peace only in adulthood. Begonias have a romantic relationship with people of their own sign, they experience mutual sympathy. With Leo and Sagittarius, friction does not arise in begonia, it helps to balance their energy chaos. Capricorns, Gemini and Libra can try to get a begonia in their house, if only because their naivety will be complemented by reasonable energy. For Libra women, begonia will help in finding a partner, give energy. Begonias have a slightly tense relationship with Pisces, Cancers and Scorpios, but if people born under these signs pay attention to begonias, give her some of their positive emotions, then begonias will open them a world of harmony in feelings. The influence of begonia on other signs is neutral.

Energy and symbolism of begonia

Useful for people with weakened energy, begonia nourishes them with its energy, gives strength and determination. Helps generate new ideas. Very useful for teachers, writers, journalists. Helps to cleanse the bronchi, so it is recommended to grow in homes where there are smokers. Begonia is simply necessary in the homes where pessimists live, it will help create a good mood.

Royal begonia is able to transform negative energy into the positive. Well suited for homes where people quarrel out of habit.

In the language of flowers, begonia symbolizes caution, danger, caution. In the Middle Ages, a gift of a begonia flower meant an offer of friendship.

To dream of a begonia flower in your hair or on your clothes means that others around you will condemn your addiction to exquisite and unusual things.

Healing properties of begonia

Begonia has an anti-allergic effect and is able to destroy up to 80% of microbial cells in indoor air.

IN traditional medicine tubers and begonia fruits are used as an anesthetic and antispasmodic. Begonia promotes the removal of toxins from the body, stimulates blood circulation, and has an anti-allergic effect. An infusion of flowers is used externally to treat wounds, burns, and ulcers.

Spotted begonia juice (Begonia picta) is used orally to relieve headaches. An infusion of crushed begonia leaves is used for inflammation and irritation of the nipples. The juice from the roots is used in the treatment of conjunctivitis. Parts of the plant are also used in the treatment of gastrointestinal ulcers.

The juice of fresh leaves and flowers of the ever-flowering begonia (Begonia semperflorens) is used as a wound healing agent for purulent ulcers and other inflammatory processes.

Growing begonias at home

All begonias require high humidity. To ensure the desired humidity, it is recommended to place the pot in moist peat or on a tray with water, but so that it is not in the water. To do this, pebbles are poured onto the tray or the pot is placed on an inverted saucer.

It is desirable to spray the air around the begonia, but at the same time make sure that the drops do not fall on the flowers and leaves. Moderation is the main requirement of such a flower as begonia. Caring for it implies a moderate temperature - preferably about 20 ° C in summer, not lower than +15 ° C in winter; bright diffused light, but not direct sunlight.

In winter, begonias can be exposed in the morning and evening to a place lit by the sun for several hours. An exception is the ever-flowering begonia. It tolerates both shade and bright sunlight well. Watering should also be moderate. From spring to autumn, during the period of growth and flowering, it is necessary to water as the earthen coma dries up, and reduce watering in winter.

During the growing season, it is advisable to feed the plant at least twice with complete mineral fertilizers. To prolong the flowering of begonias (especially tuberous ones), it is necessary to remove female flowers at the very beginning of their development. To improve the formation of tubers in tuberous begonias, new buds should be cut off in September so that the plant does not waste energy on flowering.

Reproduction. All begonias reproduce well by stem or leaf cuttings, dividing the bush. Tuberous begonias propagate by tubers or seeds.

Tubers are planted in pots from February to May, depending on when they want to get flowering plant. For germination, they are planted in small pots with sandy soil, into which the tubers are only half deepened. Watering should be very moderate. Germination is slow (up to several weeks). First, roots appear and only then shoots. As soon as the shoots appear, the tubers should be sprinkled with earth and rearranged on a light, warm windowsill.

Propagation by seeds is a rather troublesome business. best term sowing - from December to March. They are sown in bowls with leafy soil, a mixture of such soil with peat and sand, or directly into peat. Begonia seeds are very small, so they do not need to be buried, but only lightly pressed down. Seedlings appear in two weeks. They need to dive 2-3 times.

Grown up begonias are planted with a clod of earth in small pots. In July-August, such plants bloom, and by winter they have time to form tubers. Leaf begonias are easily propagated by leaf cuttings or by dividing the bush when transplanting.

For a leaf cutting, take the leaf of the base of the plant. The cutting length is desirable not less than 5 cm, rooting will go better if phytohormones are used. The stalk is buried so that the leaf does not touch the soil.

The soil is moistened and crushed around the cutting. Stem cuttings are rooted in the same way as leaf cuttings, but stem cutting must be at least 7 cm long. The best time for cuttings is spring, early summer.

Diseases and pests. With care errors, begonia can drop leaves and buds. The reason for this is most likely a lack of moisture in the soil and air humidity around the plant. At the same time, the tips of the leaves first turn brown and, if watering is not established, begin to fall off.

The pale color of the leaves indicates insufficient lighting. With excessive moisture, especially at low temperatures, begonia can be affected by gray rot. At the same time, a light mold appears on the leaves, which is caused by a fungus. The affected parts of the plant must be removed, and the rest treated with a fungicide. Powdery mildew also belongs to fungal diseases. With this disease, the leaves are covered with a white bloom.

The spread of powdery mildew is facilitated by dry air, sharp temperature fluctuations and drafts. The affected plant is pollinated with ground sulfur or sprayed with colloidal sulfur diluted in water. Solution of 1% concentration.

The most common pests that settle on begonias are spider mites (red spider) and aphids (very small insects). Both mites and aphids live on reverse side leaf and feed on its juices. The tick is destroyed by spraying and washing the underside of the leaves with a mild soapy solution of tobacco or a soapy solution of Dalmatian chamomile. You can treat the plant with preparations containing pyrethrum or an insecticide. The tick spreads rapidly in dry air at high temperatures. Aphids are also destroyed by preparations with pyrethrum. The treatment must be repeated until the pests are destroyed.