What are the propagation methods for the couple begonia?
The couple begonia flower is a very beautiful flower, with two blooms opening side by side on a single receptacle, one single-petaled with yellow stamens, and the other double-petaled without stamens. So, do you know what the propagation methods for the couple begonia flower are?
1. Propagation methods for the couple begonia flower
1. Cutting method: Choose vigorous 2-year-old branches, cut them into small sections as cuttings, insert them into a sand pot, water them and place them in a shady spot; once they grow roots, they can be planted out.
2. Division method: Choose old plants several years old, divide them with a sharp knife, and then plant the divisions separately.
3. Layering method: Choose long, strong branches and press them into the soil, fasten the branches in place with a U-shaped wire, then cover with a layer of fine soil and firm the covering soil; once roots have grown, they can be planted elsewhere.
2. How to grow the couple begonia
1. Soil
It is suitable to choose fertile, loose, well-drained sandy loam.
2. Temperature
The suitable growing temperature for the couple begonia is roughly between 16°C-25°C; in winter it must not fall below 10°C, and in summer it should not exceed 28°C; it also likes environments with a large day-night temperature difference.
3. Light
Give it plenty of light, but in summer a shade net is needed to avoid prolonged direct sun exposure, while also ensuring good ventilation, otherwise the plant is prone to poor growth.
4. Water
It is best to keep the potting soil moist; in dry weather, water should also be sprayed on the leaves promptly to raise air humidity and promote healthy plant growth. During the growing period, air humidity should preferably be kept at around 60%-80%. At the same time, drain promptly, and by no means allow waterlogging or rain exposure, otherwise root rot is likely. In winter, it is best for the potting soil to be slightly on the dry side, and clean water can be sprayed on the leaves once a week.
5. Fertilizer
During the growing period, apply diluted cake fertilizer water once about every 10 days, and during the bud stage apply some additional phosphorus fertilizer. When fertilizing, be careful to avoid splashing the fertilizer liquid onto the leaves; no fertilizing is needed during the flowering period or in winter and summer.
6. Reasonable pruning
Every spring, carry out repotting and soil replacement as well as pruning work, cutting away weak branches, overlapping branches, and residual roots. For plants that have already flowered for 2-3 years and have grown too tall, short pruning is needed, keeping only about 6-10 cm of stem to encourage new branches to sprout.
The couple begonia is very suitable for growing at home; placed on a balcony or in a corridor, it is bright and gorgeous and particularly eye-catching.