How to Grow Wax Begonia? Detailed Growing Methods and Precautions

Begonias are already loved by many people, so many people grow begonias in their own homes. There are many varieties of begonias, and the wax begonia (Begonia semperflorens) is the most popular, with advantages such as a neat, rounded plant shape, abundant and dense flowers, being extremely easy to combine with other flowerbed plants, and a long ornamental period of blooming in all four seasons. Below, the flower friend editor introduces the growing methods for wax begonias.

1. Potting soil

For wax begonia potting soil, a mix of river sand, leaf mold and snake fern scraps is the most ideal. Wax begonias fear extreme heat, so in summer they should be kept in a cool place for care.

2. Watering

Wax begonias like warm and moist conditions, so during the growth period, watering should be based on the plant's growth condition and changes in temperature. Water less during the sprouting stage and keep the potting soil slightly dry; if it is too wet, it will cause root rot. During the growth period, water once every two days, and frequently spray water around the plant to increase air humidity. In addition, note that when watering, do not pour from the leaves or the top of the stem; water along the edge of the flower pot, otherwise the stems and leaves are prone to water accumulation and rot.

3. Fertilizing

During the growth period, wax begonias should be fertilized according to the leaf color and the leaf growth condition. Do not fertilize too much, otherwise the leaves will grow excessively and flowering will be affected. Before flowering, apply an appropriate amount of phosphorus fertilizer and potassium fertilizer to improve flowering quality.

4. When winter comes, dig up the bulbous roots and hang them for storage in a dry, ventilated place, or place the potted flowers indoors in a warm place to overwinter.

5. Disease prevention

During periods of high temperature and dryness, wax begonias are prone to root rot and stem rot. When discovered in the early stage, watering should be controlled in time, and carbendazim should be sprayed for prevention and control. The curative effect can be seen after continuous use for a period of time.

6. Winter and summer management

Because wax begonias are affected by temperature in winter and summer, their growth is relatively slow, and fertilizer and water management need to be strengthened.

7. Sunlight

During the peak heat of midsummer, by all means avoid wax begonias being exposed to direct strong light, as this will sunburn them.

8. After wax begonias finish flowering, be sure to remember to promptly remove the heart and remove the remaining flowers, so that they can grow more luxuriantly.

9. Pests

The common disease and pest of wax begonias is the leaf roller moth. This insect uses its larvae to feed on and damage tender leaves and flowers, directly affecting the growth and development of wax begonias. For this situation, if it is not especially serious, they can be caught by hand; for serious cases, diluted dimethoate solution should be sprayed.

10. Flower pots for wax begonias

Usually they should be placed on a balcony or in a courtyard for care in partial shade. Never let sunlight shine in directly, and pay attention to ventilation. After wax begonias have been planted for half a month, a decomposed fertilizer water can be applied. After that, during the growth period, apply a light fertilizer water once every 20-30 days. In winter, move them indoors and place them in a place with ample sunlight, and the minimum temperature must not be lower than 10°C.

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