Rieger begonia: do these 3 things for summer and it will grow like crazy and bloom nonstop after autumn arrives

Rieger begonia (Begonia × hiemalis) is a flower loved by many gardeners. The plant is full and bushy, with large blooms and brilliant colors. It is an excellent indoor ornamental potted plant, accenting the home and adding color to life.

As summer arrives, some gardeners complain that it is hard to care for, feeling that getting through summer is difficult, and that after autumn begins it affects its growth and blooming. Today Hua'er will tell you: when caring for Rieger begonia in summer, do these 3 things well, and it will grow like crazy and bloom nonstop!

1. Lower the temperature

The optimal growing temperature for Rieger begonia is 18°C-22°C. Summer temperatures are high; when they exceed 25°C, growth will be affected, and when they exceed 30°C, it will enter a semi-dormant or dormant period, during which it easily dies. It is best to cool it down: you can move it to a cool, ventilated spot with a little scattered light for care, or simply move it into an air-conditioned room.

2. Pruning

In summer, Rieger begonia has relatively low vigor and is prone to dead branches and yellow leaves, so prune it from time to time. Cut away diseased branches and leaves, old leaves, and withered leaves together to reduce nutrient consumption, so that after getting through summer it can quickly grow and bloom. When pruning, pay attention to cleanliness to prevent rotten branches and leaves from sticking to the plant or the potting soil.

3. Fertilizing

In summer, try not to fertilize; instead, let it grow faster and stronger after autumn begins, with vivid blooms. In the late part of summer, you can apply some base fertilizer, which can promote its growth. Generally, use an organic fertilizer whose effect is not especially fast, such as crushed eggshell powder or bone meal. Dig a few small holes near the edge of the flower pot and put in a small spoonful; do not use too much, otherwise it will backfire.

That is all for the summer care of Rieger begonia. If gardeners have other additions, you can share them with everyone in the comments section below. To learn more about flower-growing knowledge, you can follow Huajianke.