How to Grow Cane Begonia? A Detailed Guide to Cultivation Methods
The cane begonia (Begonia maculata) is a fibrous-rooted begonia. It is a perennial evergreen herbaceous plant with a shrub-like habit, and its height can reach over 1 m. It is an ornamental flower prized for both its foliage and its blooms. So what are the cultivation methods for cane begonias?
1. Watering: The cane begonia is a shallow-rooted plant that prefers a semi-shaded, mild and humid environment. Its optimal growing temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees. It is highly drought-tolerant but afraid of waterlogging, so watering should follow the principle of watering when dry and keeping it dry between waterings, with the best result being to keep the potting soil moist. In the height of summer, the leaves and the ground need to be misted with water; raising the air humidity will benefit its growth.
2. Fertilizing: Fertilizer is an essential element for plant growth. Fertilizer should be applied when the potting soil is dry, by hoeing the soil lightly, and watering after fertilizing makes it easier for the plant to absorb. When the stems and leaves are not vigorous or when the plant has just been repotted, heavy fertilizer should be avoided. During the vigorous growth period in spring, apply a dilute liquid fertilizer once every 10 to 15 days. In the high-temperature season in summer, the plant stops growing and fertilizing should be reduced. Fertilizing is suspended during the flowering period and in winter.
3. Light: Increase the light exposure. The cane begonia likes shade and fears harsh sun, so it is suitable for year-round cultivation on a south-facing balcony. In spring, autumn and winter, it should be given plenty of sunlight. In summer, avoid strong light, otherwise the plant's leaves will turn yellow and growth will slow.
4. Pruning: This helps maintain a good plant shape. For plants that have been growing for many years, or plants that have grown too tall, or where the leaves on the lower part of the stem have fallen off, causing an unattractive shape and affecting the ornamental effect, pruning can be carried out together with repotting in spring, so as to encourage the plant to sprout new branches and produce more bright flowers.
5. Diseases: For the prevention and control of pests and diseases, the principle of prevention first and integrated control should be fully implemented. In hot and humid weather, cane begonias are prone to pests and diseases. To prevent and control pests and diseases, first, improve ventilation and light penetration; the potting soil must not be too wet, and water must certainly not be allowed to accumulate in the pot. Second, spray a fungicide once every half month, such as thiophanate-methyl or carbendazim, to prevent diseases from occurring. If spider mite damage is found, spray a 1500-fold dilution of dicofol.