Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting Begonias
- Remove your begonia from its pot by gently squeezing the sides, paying attention to not damage the fragile tubers.
- Shake off any loose, old potting mix.
- Mix two parts potting mix and one part perlite. ...
- Add a little water to make sure your mix is very slightly moist.
- Choose a pot that is the next size up. ...
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What kind of soil do strawberry begonias like?
potting soilSoil. Strawberry begonia plants prefer to be housed in lightweight, fast-draining potting soil. It should be moist, but not stay waterlogged.
How often should you water a strawberry begonia?
Strawberry begonia will flourish in cooler locations that remain between 50 and 70 F. Water your strawberry begonia whenever the surface of the soil just starts to feel dry to the touch. If the soil gets too dry, your plant could suffer. To prevent fungal disease, avoid getting the leaves wet.
How long do strawberry begonias live?
three yearsGrowing strawberry begonias usually complete their lifespan in three years, but are easily replaced from the numerous runners sent out by the plant.
How do you repot a begonia?
Use a soilless planting medium that is equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Amend the medium with a couple of tablespoons of ground limestone to help control humidity. Mix together well and moisten with water. Gently remove the begonia from its container and immediately transplant it into the new medium.
Should I mist my strawberry begonia?
The hairy leaves of the strawberry begonia should not get wet, for moisture encourages the growth of fungi. They may also be subject to aphids, spider mites and mealybugs. Spray them with insecticidal soap as soon as they are seen infesting the plant. Judicious watering will prevent root rot.
Should you water begonias from the top or bottom?
So to avoid any issues, it's a good idea to water begonias from the bottom. To do that, simply fill the plant tray or cache pot, and allow the soil to soak it up through the drainage holes. Don't let the soak for too long though, only to the point where the soil is moist again.
Why is my strawberry begonia dying?
The strawberry begonia is very susceptible to root rot and fungal problems. It is pertinent not to overwater or allow this plant to sit in too hot of temperatures or too high of humidity. Ensure that your plant has adequate drainage and is not sitting in standing water in the plant's drainage tray.
How big do strawberry begonias get?
Grows up to 6-18 in. tall (15-20 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm). Best in part shade to full shade in humus-rich, well-drained soils.
Can you leave begonias in pots over winter?
Yes, you can overwinter begonias in pots. Fibrous types can be kept as a houseplant, while tuberous varieties should be stored dormant in a cool, dark location. What is this? Overwintering begonias is easy, and it's a great way to save your favorite varieties every year.
Do begonias like big pots?
Begonias need small and preferably ceramic pots that are only 3-4 cm in diameter larger than the plant's root system. The container you plan on planting your begonia into makes all the difference. Make sure, make sure, make sure, it has drainage holes in the bottom.
How often should you repot a begonia?
Repotting Begonia Houseplants Indoor begonias need repotting when their tubers outgrow their current pot, or when the potting mix is more than three years old or has become unsuitable. The good news is that repotting can be done at any time of year, although spring, when the plant starts regrowth, is best.
Should I water begonia after repotting?
You should give your begonia a generous watering after transplanting, but avoid drowning the soil as this won't be good for the root system.
How often does begonia need water?
every two to four daysBegonias thrive in soil that is neither dry nor saturated. Your goal is to find a moisture level and watering schedule that is justttt right. A good rule of thumb is to water every two to four days. When it's hot and dry you'll need to water more often than when the air cools down and the soil holds more moisture.
How do I know if my begonia needs water?
General Rules. The main rule of thumb for watering begonias is to not let the soil dry out completely. Stick your finger into the soil, and if it dry to your first knuckle, it's time to water. Avoid overwatering, which will cause the foliage to turn yellow and eventually drop.
How do I know if my begonia is overwatered?
Signs of Overwatered Begonia PlantLeaves turn yellow.The continuous dropping of leaves.Breaking of the stems.Leaf tips turning brown.
Can you overwater a begonia?
Like all plants, it is possible to overwater begonias. Root rot is a common side effect of too much moisture in the soil where your begonias are planted. Begonias may also droop and wilt if they are overwatered. Sometimes it's hard to tell whether a begonia plant is wilting from being overwatered or underwatered.
What soil is best for begonias?
While begonias don’t really like soil, you can plant them in sandy loam soil. Best by far is to plant them in a well-drained potting medium such as...
Do begonias do well in pots?
Begonias love pots as they thrive in potting mediums. Since they prefer a snug container, which lets them become root bound, they actually prefer g...
Should I water begonia after repotting?
You should give your begonia a generous watering after transplanting, but avoid drowning the soil as this won’t be good for the root system. I pref...
When to Repot a Begonia
Since begonias like to be root bound, wait to repot until the container is filled with roots. This will be clearly obvious if you gently remove the plant from its pot. If there is still loose soil, allow the begonia to continue growing. When the plant’s roots hold all of the soil, it’s time for a transplant.
How to Repot a Begonia
When moving begonia to a bigger pot, select a slightly larger pot for the transplant. Slightly means to choose a pot that is an inch (2.5 cm.) larger than its previous pot. It is better to gradually increase the size of the pot as the plant grows, rather than plunking it into a huge container, which can lead to root rot.
How to Care for Strawberry Begonia
The Strawberry Begonia belongs to the Saxifrage family and are well known for their decorative leaves.
What Does Your Strawberry Begonia Require?
Strawberry Begonia plants tend to thrive in bright indirect sun light. These plants need to be kept out of direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves and cause holes.
Extra Tips for Strawberry Begonia
There are several pests and diseases that can affect your Strawberry Begonia plant, however they are fairly resistant to most problems.
How to Repot a Begonia
Wait until your begonia is completely root-bound before you start repotting it. Once you’re sure your begonia’s rootbound, choose the right size container, ensure adequate drainage, add the correct potting medium, and repot your begonia with ease. Make sure to place your newly repotted begonia in a warm area exposed to indirect sunlight.
Repot Your Begonia In Five Easy Steps
Learning how to repot my begonia involves a five-step process that includes knowing when to repot the plant and how to choose a new pot.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Repot A Begonia
While begonias don’t really like soil, you can plant them in sandy loam soil. Best by far is to plant them in a well-drained potting medium such as mixed vermiculite, peat moss, and perlite.
Happy Repotting
With good preparation and the tips I shared above, you should have no problem repotting your begonia. A happy begonia will bless you with beautiful blooms and rich foliage.
Strawberry Begonia: The Basics
Despite its name, Strawberry Begonia ( Saxifraga stolonifera) isn’t a true Begonia plant or a true Strawberry plant. Strawberry Begonia is in a completely different plant family than either of its namesake plants. Instead, these flowering herbaceous plants get their name due to their appearance, including fuzzy leaves and runners.
Buying Strawberry Begonia Plants
You can purchase Strawberry Begonias at any garden or home store along with online plant stores!
Strawberry Begonia Plant Care Guide
Strawberry Begonias are extremely easy to care for, making them perfect for beginner gardeners. In addition, the care for Strawberry Begonias is very similar to Swedish Ivy .
Repotting Strawberry Begonia
Because Strawberry Begonias grow so quickly, you can repot your plant every year in the spring.
Propagating Strawberry Begonia
You can easily propagate Strawberry Begonias with offsets, also known as runners. To propagate your plant:
Common Pests Affecting Strawberry Begonia Houseplants
The most common pests affecting Strawberry Begonias are aphids and whiteflies. These pests attack the plant by sucking the sap from its leaves. In addition, these pests hide underneath the leaves, so they’re hard to see unless you look for them. Another way to tell if you have an infestation is the condition of your plant’s leaves.
Common Diseases Affecting Strawberry Begonia
The most common disease affecting Strawberry Begonias is root rot. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering your plant. In addition, you can add more perlite or sand to the soil to promote adequate drainage.
Strawberry Begonia Light
The strawberry begonia thrives under bright, indirect light. But, you want to keep it away from direct sunlight. Too much exposure will cause its beautiful colors to fade. Long periods under the sun’s rays can likewise give it sunburn.
Strawberry Begonia Temperature & Humidity
Strawberry begonia like cool to moderate temperatures. The do best when it stays between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes them perfect for USDA zones 7 to 10 if you want to keep them outdoors all year round.
Strawberry Begonia Watering
Strawberry begonia likes soil that’s evenly moist but not wet. Because it is susceptible to overwatering, you do not want to let it sit in water for long periods of growth.
Soil
A good houseplant potting mix will make your strawberry begonia happy provided that it is well draining. Because the plant likes moist soil, you also want the soil to be able to retain moisture. Although, noting too heavy.
Fertilizing
Feed your strawberry begonia with balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the spring and summer (which is its growing period).
Strawberry Begonia Pruning
Pruning is one of the lower maintenance tasks when caring for your strawberry begonia. However, you still want to make sure to trim it every now and then to keep it looking neat and tidy. Similarly, this lets you control its size and shape.
Strawberry Begonia Propagation
Strawberry begonia only live for 3 years. Fortunately, they are very easy to propagate because the plant does most of the work for you. As such, you’ll always have a new strawberry begonia before the current one reaches the end of its lifespan.