Begonias are a type of plant very common in homes and very representative for its easy care. They are plants that offer a variety of flowers with dazzling colors and that classifies them as a beauty. We will address outdoor begonia care for its importance to good weather and its attention.
Begonias thrive in warm, humid climates., that's why it's important to know their behavior and how to care for them to keep them healthy and flourishing. In theory There are 1.800 species worldwide, but as always, we will learn about the most common ones. It is important to know how to take care of them and make them adapt to the coldest places.
Most common types of begonias for outdoors
- Tuberous begonias, They have bulbs, which makes it a hybrid plant. It is characterized by its large flowers, shiny green foliage and leaves with a hairy surface of fine hairsThe best areas for this plant are bright but shady places, since it cannot tolerate direct light.
- Semperfloren begonias: Also known as wax begonias, they are hardy and bloom continuously. They are the most versatile and can always be found in any store and greenhouse.
- Rhizomatous begonias: Recognized for their decorative leaves and as plants that are used indoors throughout the year. They are famous for their beautiful flowers and large foliage. It is also known as Rex Begonia or Leaf Begonia, due to the shape and large size of its leaves. This type of variety is one of the most resistant, given that its parts are somewhat thicker, so it does not resist too much heat. It is placed within the group of the strongest, together with the Samperflorens begonia, Tuberhybrida begonia and Escargot begonia.
What climate is ideal for growing it?
Begonias are plants for hot climates, or indoor plants to be able to grow them all year round. If kept outside, it is a grateful plant that grows quickly and easily, as long as it is protected from wind and direct sunlight. Obviously, it does not tolerate very cold temperatures and in winter it must be kept indoors, at around 20º.
Tips for the proper care of outdoor begonias
This type of plant, like all plants, needs care. Some are more versatile to handle, but it is always a good idea to know and apply everything in our power to see them flourish.
Outside look for the right place
Begonias in general prefer places with indirect light or semi-shade. Direct sunlight is not recommended as it damages the leaves and flowers. During colder periods, they do tolerate direct sunlight much better.
Act quickly. protect them from wind and strong currents, because they are susceptible and can wither.
Cultivation in the soil
The type of The soil must be light and airy. or what is known as well-drained. Ideally, you want a soil mixed with garden soil, sand and peat in equal proportions. Avoid clay soil throughout your container.
The soil pH must range between the 5,5 and the 6,5, what are known as slightly acidic soils.
Irrigation must be regular, almost every day, more frequently on very hot days. It is not advisable to leave water on a plate with the pot on top, because this will cause the roots to rot.
Showy and pretty begonia leaves
Soil fertilizer
Can it be added compost, organic matter or fertilizers to improve their vitality. It is better to fertilize them in summer because they require extra potassium and cope better with the cold months.
The frequency of fertilizer should be every 2 to 3 weeks in the growing season (spring and summer), in winter it is done less frequently.
Pruning and maintenance
Pruning is essential to prevent the plant from getting sick quickly. It is advisable to remove wilted leaves to prevent the spread of any disease. If you notice that the plant is poorly structured or untidy, you can trim some stems to give it a more homogeneous shape.
Wilted flowers should also be removed to make way for new, more vigorous flowers.
How to protect them from diseases and pests
Act quickly. make a periodic inspection and regularly check for any disease. The most common pests are:
- The aphids, very small bugs, generally green in color, as they feed on the juices of their leaves.
- MitesThey will be detected when yellow spots appear on the leaves.
- Slugs and snails, they eat the leaves.
The most common diseases:
- Mildew, a fungus that appears as a white powder on leaves.
- Root rot, when there has been an excess of water.
How to take cuttings or propagate begonias
plant seeds It is one of the most unique forms, but its system is slow and it takes weeks to have a large plant.
The best option is to do it through cuttings of their stems. Take a healthy, cleanly cut stem and place it in a glass of water. Wait a few days for it to develop roots and then you can plant it in a spot with soil.
Another way would be division of rhizomes or collection of duplicate tubers. Plant them in new locations.
How to care for them in the different seasons of the year
Begonias areare sensitive to extreme temperatures, both cold and hot. The best time to buy a plant is in spring, to give it regular growth and adapt it to summer.
In summer They must be protected from extreme heat, especially from direct light and place them in a semi-shaded area.
In winter, plants should be moved to a protected place., such as an indoor house or greenhouse.
Don't forget that outdoor begonias They are easy to grow as long as they are properly cared for. When we have them in a pot, try to that has holes for water to drain and don't stay at the base. The soil of the plant must be moist, with normal watering, neither too much nor too little. And don't forget that direct sunlight burns them, it's better to have plenty of light, but in the shade.