The begonia flower has over 900 varieties and is widely distributed as a houseplant. There are three-meter giants among them, and there are very small centimeter crumbs. Named this gorgeous beauty in honor of the governor of Haiti, Begon, because the plant comes from the tropics.
Types of begonias - diversity created by nature and people
Before deciding how to care for begonia at home, you need to decide what kind of plant you like.
The main types of begonias are divided into two huge groups - flowering and deciduous, further the classification is as follows:
Flowering varieties:
- tuberous begonia in the photo may be without leaves - they fall from this plant, and a new generation grows from tubers. Luxurious and abundant flowering, flowers 5-15 cm, a variety of shades, double or simple, two-color, with a border;
- bushy, in need of a period of sleep. The most common species is the ever-flowering garden begonia (see photo), planting and caring for which is not difficult. The ever-flowering begonia pleases with its delicate flowers for almost the whole year, but it must be updated by cuttings every 3 years, as the stems stretch out and become unattractive;
- evergreen begonia.
Decorative deciduous varieties, characterized by beautiful leaves with interesting colors:
- when you see the royal begonia in the photo, you will understand why it is in the lead in the group of decorative and deciduous. These are heart-shaped leaves with heterogeneous colors of green, brown and red tones;
- spotted;
- brindle;
- Cleopatra;
- Mason's begonia.
The ampelous begonia will attract attention even from the photo, the planting and care of which is the same as for the rest of the species of this plant. Ampel begonia belongs to the tuberous and is used in vertical gardening, because it forms an attractive flower garland up to half a meter in length. When the plant is not blooming, it pleases with attractive leaves.
Advice! Caring for the ampelous variety is simple - you should plant the plant in a pot with soil made of sand, humus and turf, and place it near a well-lit window.
The basic requirements of begonias are light, watering and humidity, temperature
In order for your plant to be as wonderful as the begonia in the photo, home care should be provided according to the following recommendations:
- Lighting. It is better to place pots with begonias on the southeast or southwest windows. The place should be bright, but without direct sun, because under sunbeams burns will appear on tender leaves.
- Temperature. In order for you to enjoy a photo of begonia flowers grown by yourself, you need to know that the plant is thermophilic. In summer, the optimal temperature regime for it is 18-20 ° C, and in winter the thermometer should not fall below 18 ° C.
- Watering. Abundant regular watering is needed only in summer, when it is hot. In autumn and winter, watering is reduced to moderate. Begonias do not like waterlogging, therefore they are watered only when the top layer of the substrate dries out by 1.5 cm. And it is better to use soft, pre-settled water.
- Humidity. Do not spray begonias, as brown spots appear on the leaves. However, high humidity is very important for the plant, and therefore the containers are placed on a tray with wet moss.
Advice! You can also put vessels with water or wet expanded clay next to the plants.
Rules for transplanting begonias. Selection of soil and fertilizers
Care and cultivation of begonias require proper planting and regular replanting. In order for the plant to feel good, good drainage will be required, and the soil should be loose and light, but at the same time nutritious. The most commonly used mixture with the following composition:
- leaf ground - 2 hours;
- turf - 1 hour;
- peat - 1 hour;
- humus - 1 hour;
- sand - 1/3 tsp
If we are talking about planting young plants, you can use a soil mixture of leaf and peat soil in a ratio of 1: 1 for them.
Advice! Ready soil, bought in a store, you can independently supplement with chopped sphagnum moss.
Young plants should be placed on the sunny side, and leaves will quickly begin to appear on them. And after 1.5 months, the first buds will appear and beautiful begonia flowers will open as in the photo.
Transplant mature plant stands no more often than every two years, and young - annually, in the spring. The pot should become cramped, and only then is the transplant carried out. An exception is if you bought a begonia in a store - then a transplant is desirable immediately, since during this operation you can assess the condition of the plant's root system.
Important! The soil is not poured under the very top of the container, since the begonia forms additional roots, and they should be covered with new earth.
From the moment the buds appear, the plant is fertilized. This requires a universal complex fertilizer suitable for flowering indoor plants. The frequency of top dressing is twice a month.
Begonia propagation methods
Begonias can be propagated by cuttings of stems and leaves, as well as dividing the bush, and tubers or seeds collected after flowering are used to propagate tuberous varieties. Most often propagated by cuttings in the spring:
- you need to choose a strong and healthy leaf or stalk;
- place it in a moistened mixture of sand and peat (proportion 3: 1). Planted immediately to prevent drying of the cut;
- the container is taken to a dark place for 1.5 months until a new begonia is born.
Important! The leaf stalk for breeding begonias must be at least 5 cm, and the stem - not shorter than 7 cm.
But for begonias, tuberous planting and care are somewhat different. To propagate the plant with tubers, proper storage of tubers should be ensured: they are placed in sand or peat in autumn and kept at a temperature of + 8 ... 10 ° C all winter, and planted in containers with a suitable substrate and drainage in spring. Tubers in the substrate deepen only half. Further, the plant is provided with moderate watering. For several weeks, the tuber will germinate, fix roots in the ground, and only then will it release shoots. As soon as the shoots appear, the desired layer of earth is poured on top of the tubers and the containers are transferred to the light. Already in the middle of summer, the plants will be covered with flowers, and by winter they will form new baby tubers.
Possible difficulties in caring for begonia
Various consequences of improper home care for evergreen begonia can be seen in the photo.
The most common troubles are:
- the plant sheds buds and leaves - it lacks moisture;
- if the leaves are too pale, then the plant does not have enough light;
- when it is too wet and cold, begonias may appear gray rot- mold. Then all the affected parts are removed, and the plant is treated with a fungicide;
- a spider mite or aphid may settle, which will draw juices from the plant. Such begonia must be washed soapy water tobacco or chamomile, and also treated with insecticide or pyrethrum preparations.
72 938 Add to favorites
Genus Begonia (Begonia) belongs to the Begoniaceae family. In nature, these plants live in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia and America. Among the varieties of begonias, two main groups of forms and varieties are distinguished: decorative and deciduous and flowering. In our photo gallery you can see photos of home begonia various kinds and varieties.
Most decorative leafy begonias have a bushy or ampelous shape; several tall forms are also known. The description of begonias of this species is similar: they all have a thickened rhizome that spreads along the surface of the earth or is located in the soil at a shallow depth.
Hybrids of the species Begonia royal (Begonia rex) widely cultivated as potted plants. Asymmetrical fragile large leaves reach a length of 23 cm and are distinguished by a bright pattern of spots of green, silver, brown, red, pink and purple colors.
Mason's begonia (Begonia masoniana)- a plant with large bright green wrinkled leaves with a brown cross in the center.
coral begonia (Begonia corallina) grows up to 2 m, has silvery leaves and pink flowers that last for a long time.
Begonia metallic (Begonia metallica)- bushy strongly branching plant up to 1.5 m high with reddish white pubescent stems. Unevenly toothed pubescent ovoid leaves of the begonia flower are located on long petioles. Above, they are olive green with bright red veins and a metallic sheen, purple below. The flowers are pink with bright pubescence.
Begonia Bovera (Begonia boweri)- a compact plant about 15-23 cm high with small bright green leaves with a brown border, slightly incised and pubescent along the edge. Single white or slightly pinkish begonia flowers of this species are formed in winter. The plant has a creeping rhizome.
An interesting variety of begonia Tiger with bronze-green spotted leaves.
striped begonia (Begonia listada)- a plant with lobed dark green softly pubescent leaves with bright emerald green speckles. Few white flowers appear in autumn and winter.
Begonia dotted (Begonia maculata) characterized by long shoots, silver dotted pattern on the leaves and pink flowers.
Begonia homemade hogweed and her photo
Begonia hogweed (Begonia heracleifolia) — herbaceous plant 40-50 cm high with a thick creeping stem. Beautiful palmately dissected leaves are large, up to 30 cm long. Their color varies from bright green to light green. The underside of the leaf is light green or reddish brown in places, strongly pubescent. Large pink or white flowers are collected in a large loose brush up to 40-50 cm long. It blooms from late February to April, sometimes until May. growing all year round especially intense in spring and summer. Has several varieties.
Variety begonia hogweed blackish (Begonia heracleifolia var, nigricans) unlike the main species, it applies to both decorative and deciduous and beautifully flowering begonias. Her stem is thick, creeping. Large (up to 25 cm in diameter) palmate-separate leaves are located on short, slightly pubescent petioles. The leaves are dark green to dark brown above and light green below. The flowers are located on a peduncle up to 40-50 cm high. They are relatively large (up to 2.5 cm in diameter), waxy, bright pink, collected in inflorescences. Blooms from late winter to mid-spring (February-April).
Varieties and hybrids of this species are also known.
yellow begonia
yellow begonia (Begonia xanthina)- a herbaceous semi-bush plant up to 40-45 cm high with a thickened short rhizome and strongly branched recumbent shoots. Petioles of this species room begonia covered with hairs.
The leaves are large (up to 17-20 cm long and 15 cm wide), oval, finely serrated along the edges, with a pointed apex. From above they are dark green, naked; below - pink - purple with sparse pubescence .. Large (3-4 cm in diameter) yellow-orange flowers of begonias are collected in loose inflorescences. This plant is widely known in culture, and it is used in hybridization to obtain new forms.
red-leaved begonia (Begonia x erythrophylla)- a spectacular herbaceous plant with slightly shortened stems pressed to the soil. Numerous leaves are rounded or slightly oblique, 12-15 cm long and 9-10 cm wide. Their upper side is dark green, shiny, the lower one is intense red. Petioles are light green. The flowers are whitish-pink, small. Blooms from December to June.
Begonia brilliant (Begonia nitida)- one of the few botanical species widely used in culture. The plant is erect, strongly branched, with bare shoots, up to 1.2 m high. The leaves are oval, obliquely heart-shaped at the base, glossy, dark green above, light green below. Peduncle 15-20 cm long. Medium-sized flowers are pink or white. Blooms during winter, spring and summer.
Begonia Limming (Begonia limmingheiana)- one of the species cultivated as an ampelous plant; perennial shrub with long (30-50 cm) hanging shoots. The leaves are shiny, ovate, heart-shaped at the base, slightly oblique, wavy along the edges, 8-12 cm long and up to 5 cm wide, located on light green short petioles. They are light green with a barely noticeable yellowish tint. Flowers are light red to coral red. Blooms in summer.
Conditions for growing begonias
For decorative leafy plants, a bright, but not sunny, but slightly shaded place is assigned. Even a short stay of plants in the open sun leads to severe leaf burns. It is necessary to create the following conditions for growing begonias: in spring and summer, the optimum temperature should be at the level of 18-20 ° C, and in winter - not lower than 18 ° C. Most begonia species do not have a dormant period, and plant growth continues throughout the year with some slowdown in autumn and winter.
Water regularly, using only soft water at room temperature. From spring to autumn, the soil is kept slightly moist, avoiding either excess water in the pot or drying out of a clod of earth. Plants need high humidity, but it is not recommended to spray leaves and flowers. Begonias are fed from March to September once a week, in autumn and winter - once a month with complex mineral fertilizers.
Transplanted annually in the spring. When transplanting, a new pot is taken no more than 2 cm wider than the old one. Good drainage is required (2-3 cm), and then a layer of charcoal is poured, which serves as a prophylactic against root rot. A substrate (pH 6.1-7.5) is poured over the drainage and coal, consisting of leafy and soddy soil, humus and peat (2: 1: 2: 2).
The main techniques for the formation of young plants are pruning and pinching. By pinching the tops, shortening the shoots and stem, you can give the begonia any shape - spherical, pyramidal, bushy. To obtain a bush form, the first pinching of the top is done at a height of 5-7 cm. This contributes to the formation of side shoots. After they grow up to 10-12 cm, re-pinching is carried out.
Reproduction of begonia
These plants are propagated in spring and summer by leafy or apical cuttings rooted under the film, and dividing the bush.
When propagating begonias with leaf cuttings, a healthy leaf is cut off, its edges are cut off where there are no thick veins. The leaf is cut into square cuttings at least 2 cm long. The cuttings are planted vertically or laid out on a substrate consisting of equal parts of sand and peat. Cuttings take root within one to two months.
For propagation of begonias by apical cuttings, ampelous or bush begonias are mainly chosen. The cutting selected for rooting must have at least two nodes (buds). The lower cut is made under the very bottom node. If the cutting does not have a top, then the upper cut must be made, stepping back 5 mm from the kidney. The large leaves remaining on the handle are cut in half. The cuttings take root within 15-30 days in a mixture of sand and peat (1: 1) at a temperature of 22-24°C.
Begonia always blooming (group of beautiful flowering)
The group of flowering begonias is divided into three subgroups:
The first includes begonias of the type Lorraine , which appeared at the end of the 19th century and under the name "Gloire de Lorraine" dominated the market for a long time. This variety of begonias blooms in winter with white or pink flowers. Nowadays, it is rarely found in flower shops.
At the beginning of the 20th century in England, begonia was bred from tuberous begonias. Elation , which blooms all year round with white, red, pink, yellow flowers.
In this subgroup, begonias won the most popularity. Rigera named after the breeder.
The third subgroup includes very famous hybrids that bloom all year round. Semperflorens , which tolerate the sun better than the varieties listed above.
Begonia always blooming (Begonia semperflorens)- low, mounding plant, all summer, strewn small flowers red, pink and white colors. The leaves of some varieties have a bronze tint. There are many varieties.
Begonia home tuberous
In room culture, it was precisely tuberous house begonia (Begonia x tuberhybrida). This plant belongs to the group of begonias with large double flowers.
Many varieties are known, including ampelous - hanging tuberous begonia (Begonia x tuberhybrida pendula) with single and double flowers, used for hanging baskets.
Begonia tuberous multiflora (Begonia x tuberhybrida multiflora) with simple, semi-double and double flowers of red, orange, pink and yellow tones. All of these types of domestic tuberous begonias bloom during the summer months.
Caring for an ever-blooming begonia
Plants are given a bright place, protected from direct sunlight. In the summer they are kept at room temperature or taken out into the garden, winter-flowering species - at a temperature of 13-21 ° C. In domestic tuberous begonias dying off for the winter, the tubers should be protected from frost. The optimum storage temperature for tubers is 5-10°C.
Caring for an ever-flowering begonia involves abundant watering during the flowering period, the rest of the time as needed, preventing the clod of earth from drying out. During budding and flowering, begonias are fed with a weak solution of complex mineral fertilizers.
Growing large-flowered tuberous begonias as potted plants, regularly cut out small female flowers that appear next to the spectacular large male ones. Constantly remove old flowers (with the exception of small-flowered species).
In the spring, begonia tubers are transplanted into a fresh nutrient mixture, exposed to a bright sunny place and watered regularly. As a rule, begonias bloom in rooms two months after planting (or transplanting) tubers.
Always flowering begonia is propagated by seeds. tuberous begonias propagated in spring by cuttings or division of old tubers. Winter-flowering hybrids from the "Lorraine" and "Elation" groups can be propagated by cuttings from leaves or stem tips.
In the latter case, in winter, faded plants - mother liquors are kept at a temperature not lower than 16 ° C. In April-May, cuttings 8-10 cm long are cut from them (each should have at least two leaves, two axillary buds), planted in a substrate consisting of equal parts of peat and sand. At a substrate temperature of 20-22°C, the cuttings take root in three to four weeks. Then they are planted in pots with a diameter of 6 cm with a soil mixture of leafy soil, peat and sand (1: 1: 1), kept at an air temperature of 18-20 ° C. When the roots are braided with a clod of earth, the plants are first transferred into pots with a diameter of 9 cm, then into pots with a diameter of 12 cm. Simultaneously with the transfer, shoots that have reached a length of 10-12 cm are pinched two or three times, otherwise the plants will bloom too early, in summer.
Plants are affected spider mite, aphids, nematodes, as well as powdery mildew and gray mold.
72 938 Add to favorites
Begonia is very beautiful and amazing colors, which conquers gardeners with its magical shape and diverse flower colors. These flowers can be seen in almost every home and personal plot. They decorate various zones recreation, squares, parks, apartments and balconies. Let's take a closer look at the most common types of begonias and their brief description.
Begonia, like all plants, requires attention and care. Timely watering and top dressing is necessary. She loves the bright sun, especially during the flowering period, as well as high humidity, since at first she appeared and grew in tropical conditions. In general, caring for begonia is not difficult, the main thing is not to miss the main points for caring for a flower.. temperature control and proper lighting let the begonias bloom beautiful flowers which you can admire for a long time.
ever blooming
The flower is also called always blooming. It got its name because of the long flowering time. Begonia is presented in the form of a perennial shrub, which has a thick stem of large size, and the leaves have a delicate and smooth surface.
Inflorescences are represented by flowers of white, red and pink shades. The inflorescence itself is located on tall peduncles. male flower four-petal, and the female consists of three petals. Seeds ripen and are stored in boxes of dark brown color.
About 600 varieties have already been bred from the ever-flowering begonia, which have different plant heights, the color of the leaf plates and the flowers themselves. Basically, these varieties are represented by heterotic hybrids. These are undersized hybrids with a height of 15 to 20 centimeters, medium-sized from 20 to 30 and tall, whose height reaches 50 centimeters.
Lianovaya
Begonias of this species are very powerful and large plants. The length of such a flower can reach up to three meters.. Its tenacious shoots always reach up and cling to all kinds of parts of any material, living and inanimate. Flowering is simply amazing in its beauty. But due to the large length of the plant in room conditions This begonia is not to everyone's taste.
Deciduous
Deciduous or decorative-deciduous do not have above-ground shoots. The leaf blades of this plant grow straight from the spreading root. This species got its name for its beautiful and multifaceted leaves, which differ in color and shape.. You can see different spots on them. various colors and forms, but there are also simply plain ones.
Royal (Rex)
Rex is one of the hybrid plant species. The leaves reach a length of thirty centimeters, and the edges are jagged. The shape is oval and round. Their color can be either purple, brown-pink, or purple. There is always a very beautiful border on the leaves of the plant, which decorates the plant with its silvery, green or white color.
Metallic or Metallica
The leaves of this species are usually up to 15 centimeters long. They are covered with olive green hairs. The shape is ovoid, and the edges are serrated. Due to the characteristic color and unusual coating, the leaves seem to be covered with a metallic coating.. When exposed to direct sunlight and bright daylight, the leaves reflect them and gracefully shine.
Bauera (Tiger)
The second name of this plant is Bauer's begonia.
This is one of the most beautiful views decorative leafy begonias. The stem is straight and branched. The length of the leaves can reach up to seven centimeters. Their shape resembles a heart, only slightly beveled and pointed at the tip. Color - brown-olive, which is covered with white spots. That is why the tiger begonia is called so.
The flower of this variety does not tolerate direct sunlight. Feels good indoors. In the winter months, it is better to reduce the temperature.
Watering should be done directly into the soil. It is impossible for water to fall on the leaf blades of the flower. It is necessary to water systematically, but moderately, so that stagnation of water does not occur. To increase the humidity of the air near the begonia, you can put a vessel filled with water.
Mason ( Begonia M asoniana)
Place of growth - New Guinea. On the leaves is an amazing pattern in the form of a Maltese cross. The drawing is brown, and he is green. Can grow up to 20 cm in length. The height of the plant is 20 - 35 centimeters. The flowers are usually medium-sized, beige.
Cleopatra ( Cleopatra)
The leaves of this flower are similar to maple. Therefore, this variety is considered very decorative. The color of the leaves varies from side to side. The outer side is painted in olive or bright greenish color, and the lower side is red and burgundy.. The leaves are located on fleshy and long cuttings, which are covered with white or gray hairs. It distinguishes given flower from other varieties.
The bush of the plant can reach a height of 30 to 50 centimeters. Cleopatra blooms usually from January to February. When the plant begins to bloom, it stretches out flower stalks, on which whitish-pink small flowers are placed.
Collared
It is also called cuff begonia. The plant is native to Mexico. The plant has a creeping stem, the leaves are large and grow up to 30 centimeters in diameter, covered with villi. The cuttings of the leaf blades are long, which are surrounded by a cuff of red villi. At home, they bloom in winter, forming at the same time approximately five peduncles, which grow about 60 centimeters in length. The flowers are formed into a brush of pink.
Bush
Bush begonias have a fairly branched and cranked stem, which looks like a bamboo stem. Grows as a bush, from which many side shoots grow. Leaf shape and color varied. Flowering is very beautiful of graceful flowers. The root system is thick and fleshy, not divided.
The peculiarity of bush begonias is that they bloom throughout the year.
Among the varieties of this species there are both annuals and perennials. Plant height is high enough optimal conditions can reach up to two meters.
The most common varieties of bush begonias are:
coral
The stems of this plant are straight and bare, the length of which reaches from 0.5 to one meter.. They have a non-uniform color from different sides. Green color on the outside it is covered with silvery specks. back side leaf blade is dark red. The flowers are small, but the inflorescences are dense.
fuchsia
The flower has highly branching tall stems that can grow up to one meter in height. The leaves are oval, the surface is glossy green. Fuchsia begonia flowers have many different shades of red. But the flowers are rare and hang strongly.
Tuberous
This species has rhizomes in the form of a tuber. Stems tall about 80 centimeters, fleshy. The flowers are both simple and double, they look like flowers of roses, peonies, carnations and camellias. Flowers can be arranged singly or in inflorescences, small and large. Their diameter is usually 3-20 cm.
Tuberous begonia can be ampelous, shrubby or herbaceous. Heart-shaped leaves come in matte, glossy, flat and corrugated shapes. They have shades of green, light and dark tones. It blooms in May and until October, it looks very beautiful.
The most common varieties:
- Picotee Harlequin (Picotee)
- Bouton de Rose
- Duck Red (BegoniaDark Red)
- Crispa Margarita (Crispa Marginata)
Begonia Bouton de Rose Begonia Picotee Harlequin (Picotee)
blooming begonia
This group combines many varieties that are able to bloom during the months of the summer period. At the same time, their flowering is not affected by weather conditions.
The most popular varieties:
- Baby Wing
- Ambassador
- cocktail
- Gloire de Lorraine
- Competitor
- Marina
- Rosemary
One of the famous varieties is hybrid Elatior. It was bred by crossing tuberous and Socotrans species. Elatior is able to bloom almost the whole year. Because of this ability, it is called winter begonia. The plant is small, about 40 cm high, the stems are thick and bright, the leaves are glossy.. Their length can reach up to 8 centimeters, in the form of an uneven heart. Pedicels are long, on which castings grow.
According to the height of the bush are divided into three types:
- high - up to 40 cm
- medium - up to 30 cm
- undersized - up to 25 cm
hogweed
It is popular among gardeners and gardeners. The plant is large up to 40-50 centimeters in height. The stem is creeping and fleshy. The length of the leaves is about 30 centimeters, the color is green (dark or light).
The flowers are pink or white, collected in a brush, which reaches a length of 50 cm. It blooms from February to April, and the peak of flowering occurs in the spring and summer months..
hybrid variety hogweed is red-leaved begonia. It is a herbaceous plant that usually creeps along the ground. The stem is shortened.
Slightly rounded leaves, quite large, the length and width of which varies from 10-15 cm and 8-10 cm, respectively. The outside is glossy green and the inside is red.
Flowering starts from December to June. flowers are small, white color with a pink tint.
yellow
This is a semi-shrub, whose height is from 40 to 50 centimeters. Shoots recumbent, rhizome thick. Shanks are pubescent. Large leaves grow up to 20 cm long and up to 15 cm wide. The tips are pointed, the edges are serrated.
Flowers in inflorescences are dull yellow. Begonia yellow is used to produce hybrids. Breeding varieties is carried out by both breeders and amateur gardeners.
Griffin ( Gryphon)
This species is one of the newest and most popular hybrids.
The plant is quite large. Height can reach forty centimeters. The leaves of the flower are wide and distinguished by their decorative effect.
Bover's room begonia
This is an indoor or house plant. Counts decorative look. The leaves are dark green, palmately divided. Fingers stand out with green spots. Cuttings, pubescent and low.
Flowering comes with the arrival of spring. Flowers are white and pink. Maintenance of this plant is minimal. Feels good at home. But, as with most flowers, in order to establish long-term flowering, it is necessary to observe optimal temperature conditions and maintain humidity. Reproduction does not require much effort, and a beginner grower can handle it.
You need to repot once a year.
Also applies to indoor Red begonia. The plant is large enough for indoor conditions, but it looks spectacular. The leaves are shiny and smooth, ovate.
The inflorescences are collected in a panicle, the flowers are bright red shades.
Terry Pink
Plant of small growth up to 20 centimeters. The flowers are pink and double. Flowering is abundant from July days until frost.
To achieve long flowering, it is necessary to remove withered flowers. Thus, the plant will not spend energy on the formation of seeds, but will direct them to the formation of new flowers.
If you want this variety of begonia to bloom earlier, then you can plant the tuber at home in a pot with a sterile substrate (peat, coco substrate, perlite, etc.) to the depth of the tuber.
Such begonias will look good on the balcony.
Begonia is a plant that has won the hearts of many gardeners and breeders. It gained its popularity due to its long flowering period (some varieties bloom all year round), a huge variety of plant sizes, leaf color and, of course, the flowers themselves. That's why currently until now the world's leading breeders are creating more and more new varieties and hybrids. And everyone else can only admire and admire the beauty of the amazing begonia.
Homeland of one of the most popular indoor plants - begonias are the tropics and subtropics of South America. However, as decorative flower it began to grow only in the 18th century. All modern varieties and hybrids of this culture were derived from the first five varieties brought to Europe by English botanists. The plant was named begonia by the scientist Charles Plumier in honor of the French governor of the colony of Haiti, Michel Begon.
Varieties
At the moment, gardeners and indoor plant lovers breed only three main types of begonias: herbaceous, shrubby and semi-shrub. Tuberous flowers are commonly grown in lawns and flower beds. Begonia rhizome, shrub and semi-shrub is more often used as a decoration in city apartments. Some forms of this ornamental plant are valued for their beautiful flowers, others for their showy leaves.
Care for begonias of all varieties is almost the same, with the exception of some nuances. In this article, we will talk in detail about how indoor, that is, rhizomatous leafy and shrubby forms of begonias are grown.
pot and soil
Begonia is grown at home, usually in rather small containers. The fact is that her roots do not tolerate neighborhoods too well. a large number wet earth. They must occupy the space of the pot completely. In order for the plant to feel comfortable, it must be transplanted into a new container every year. bigger size(about 2 cm).
The soil for begonias should be nutritious leafy. You can mix it with sand and peat in a ratio of 1:1:3. Sometimes purchased soil is also poured into pots under this ornamental plant. In this case, it is better to buy peat.
Where to place begonias
Most begonias are shade-loving plants. That is, they cannot be placed in direct sunlight, otherwise their leaves will be burned. Most often, begonia at home is grown on the windowsills of windows located on the north or east side. It is especially important to comply with this condition for rhizomatous varieties with beautiful leaves. Shrub and semi-shrub begonias also love partial shade. However, too great harm direct lighting usually does not cause them. These varieties adapt very quickly to the sun.
An exception to this rule is the garden tuber begonia. It is usually planted on lawns broken into sunny areas. And she feels very good about it.
Reproduction methods
Seeds and petioles are what can propagate these flowers. Begonia, unfortunately, after a few years of cultivation loses its decorative effect. Therefore, old plants have to be replaced with new ones. And therefore, for those who wish to see this culture as a decoration of their apartment, it is necessary to familiarize themselves with the technologies of its breeding.
Begonia: propagation by seeds
This method, being rather complicated, is used very rarely for breeding begonias. However, if you wish, you can try to propagate this ornamental plant and so. In this case, the cultivation procedure is usually started in February. This begonia is propagated by seeds as follows:
- Drainage is poured at the bottom of a large box with a layer of 2-3 cm. It is best to take not too large pebbles.
- The leafy earth is sifted through a fine sieve and poured over the drainage also with a layer of 2-3 cm.
- A layer of snow is laid on top of the ground.
- Begonia seeds are sown on it. They are very small, and therefore the procedure should be carried out slowly, trying to distribute over the surface of the snow planting material as evenly as possible.
Begonia does not tolerate dry air very well. Therefore, the box should be tightened before the seeds germinate. plastic wrap. After the plants hatch, this cover must be removed, and the box placed in a lighted, slightly shaded place.
For the first time, the picking of plants is carried out immediately after the first true leaf appears on them. At the same time they are planted in another box. Previously, leafy earth is poured into it with a small addition of peat and sand. Planting is carried out in such a way that a distance of about two centimeters remains between rows and between individual plants.
As soon as the bushes become crowded in the box, a second pick is carried out. This time, a mixture is poured into the box, consisting of leafy soil, humus, peat and sand in a ratio of 4x1x1x1. The landing is carried out according to the 3x5 scheme.
Begonia from seeds will develop well only at a temperature of at least 20 degrees. Also, the soil in the boxes should be disinfected from time to time by watering with a weak solution of potassium permanganate (0.6%).
Reproduction by cuttings
Planting begonias can also be carried out using this technique. For propagation in this case, either young or slightly lignified cuttings are taken, on which there should be at least 2-4 buds. Under the lowest node, an oblique cut is made with a very sharp knife. Large leaves are removed from the cutting. Small ones are best left. Planting cuttings should be in pots one at a time. You can also take a large box. However, in this case, planting material should be placed only along its perimeter (near the edges). The fact is that the cuttings are well accepted only under the condition of free air circulation.
Leafy soil mixed with peat and sand is poured into pots or a box. A few days before planting, the soil should be thoroughly wetted. Do not water the soil before and after planting. The cuttings are carefully stuck into the ground and covered with a film on top, fixed on sticks of a suitable length.
For two weeks, the plants must be sprayed and ventilated daily, removing the coating for a while. After this period, the seedlings begin to accustom to room temperature. To do this, the film is removed every day for 2-3 hours. They do this for a week. Then the film is removed completely.
How to propagate by leaves
This method is also often used by indoor plant lovers. Produce propagation by leaves as follows:
- With mother plant a large healthy leaf is removed and cut into squares 2 cm long;
- the resulting planting material is planted vertically in a moistened mixture of leafy soil, sand and peat, or simply laid out on it;
- the box is covered with foil.
Begonia, whose leaves are easy to propagate, germinates in this case in about 2-3 weeks. From this moment on, the box needs to be ventilated. To do this, the film is first removed for 30 minutes a day. Further, the ventilation time is gradually increased. The plant should be fully adapted to room temperature within a week.
How to water correctly
Of course, a lover of indoor plants should also know how to properly water these wonderful flowers. Begonia, like any other tropical plant, does not tolerate dry air at all. Therefore, it should be sprayed daily with a spray bottle. But this must be done in such a way that water does not fall on the leaves. Spraying is done around the plant, moistening the air. You can also place the begonia pot in a larger container. In this case, water is poured onto the bottom of the latter and stones are placed. Install the pot with the plant in such a way that its bottom does not touch the water.
Actually, watering begonias is done very rarely. This plant does not like too damp earth. At high humidity its soil begins to rot the roots and turn yellow leaves. Water before watering should be defended for a day at room temperature. Blooming begonia, as well as those forms that are valued for the beauty of the leaves, are watered in spring and summer in a day or a few. In winter, the number of waterings is reduced to once a week.
Immersion method
Sometimes this technique is also used to moisten the soil in a pot. Implementing it is completely easy. To do this, you need to take a container in volume larger than a flower pot. Water softened with peat is poured into it (1 kg per 10 liters). Next, the pot is lowered into the container for 20 minutes. As a result, water will penetrate into it through the drainage holes and moisten the soil. Then the begonia in the pot is placed on a pallet. As soon as the water drains from the drainage holes, it is drained.
Growing begonias: how to fertilize
For plant nutrition, a special mixture for begonias is usually used, which can be bought at a specialized store. If you can’t find it, you can use any complex fertilizer for indoor flowers. In spring and summer, top dressing is usually done once a month. In late autumn and winter, plants do not fertilize. At this time, the flowers are at rest and top dressing can even harm them. The only exception is the ever-flowering begonia. Fertilize this variety should be all year round.
Diseases
Resistance to different kind diseases - this is also what characterizes these spectacular unpretentious flowers. Begonia, however, sometimes still causes problems in this regard for lovers of indoor plants. Most often it is affected by powdery mildew. In this case, a white or gray coating that is easily erased by a finger appears on the stem and leaves of the plant. The fungus begins to suck out all the juices from the plant. As a result, the leaves curl up and gradually die off.
Plants are usually rid of powdery mildew with special purchased products - fungicides. They also treat other begonia diseases caused by fungi. Very popular and effective, for example, drugs such as Topaz, Gold, Fundazim, etc. Before processing, the diseased plant must be isolated from others, as it spreads powdery mildew very fast. You also need to remove the entire plaque. Severely affected shoots and leaves are removed and burned. Actually, spraying is carried out according to the instructions for the selected preparation.
Pests
Also, begonias are sometimes affected by spider mites or aphids. In the first case, the plant can be treated with infusion of chamomile or tobacco with soap. Aphids are destroyed with drugs that have pyrethrum in their composition. You can also treat the plants with a weak infusion of garlic. To prepare it, 2-3 mashed garlic cloves are mixed with 2 tsp. oil and one teaspoon of liquid soap. Next, pour everything warm water in the amount of 0.5 liters.
Most popular varieties
And finally, let's figure out what popular varieties of begonias exist at the moment and which one is best to choose.
Most often, lovers of indoor plants grow the following varieties:
- Begonia ever flowering. This is one of the most beautiful forms, the main feature of which is a thick bare stem, reaching a height of up to 40 centimeters. The leaves, depending on the variety, of this begonia can be emerald or bright green, and the flowers are white, pink, red or salmon. The peculiarities of this variety, among other things, include the fact that it blooms almost all year round.
- Begonia coral. The branches of this form hang down very nicely. Its leaves are covered with spectacular white spots. Coral begonia blooms in spring. The flowers of this variety can have different shades of red - from hot pink to maroon.
- Royal begonia. This variety has a creeping stem and is very beautiful motley leaves.
Coral, ever-flowering and royal begonias are the most popular varieties. However, sometimes indoor plant lovers breed more exotic forms of begonias. For example, tuberous varieties are grown mainly in gardens and yards. However, in a pot, they can look very good. Tuberous begonia is valued, unlike rhizomatous varieties, not for beautiful leaves. She earned popularity primarily for spectacular terry flowers.
As you can see, there are many varieties of begonia. And all of them, without exception, are distinguished by high decorative qualities. Considering that to look after any forms of this wonderful indoor flower and even propagating them is a simple matter, it is certainly worth using begonia to decorate an apartment.
Due to the variety of species and bright appearance, begonia has gained great popularity among amateur flower growers. Despite the fact that this plant is native to the tropics, it feels great in our climate, both at home and on garden plot. Today, there are about a thousand varieties of this plant. In this article we will talk about the types of begonias with photos and names.
These houseplants can be both annuals and perennials. Shrubs can grow to a height of more than two meters and have very small flowers. Root begonia, on the contrary, is capable of producing inflorescences larger than twenty centimeters.
Feng Shui believes that begonia at home eliminates negative energy and helps smooth out conflict situations. Normalizes the biofield of residents and increases their confidence in own forces at the subconscious level.
Varieties of begonia
Classification
Begonias are divided into three groups:
- Decorative flowering;
- Decorative leafy;
- Shrub.
Decoratively flowering or otherwise tuberous begonia is different abundant flowering, and the flowers themselves have many shapes and colors. Gorgeous decorative inflorescences, resembling a carnation, rose, peony or camellia, grow very large. And flowering occurs from early spring to late autumn. They are not whimsical and feel good in shady places, although they are photophilous. The root of these varieties is in the form of tubers and requires abundant watering.
decorative leafy begonias differ from tuberous ones in less beautiful flowering, but rich lush foliage of various shapes and colors adorns these species no less. Deciduous begonia prefers brightly lit places and abundant watering.
Shrub forms grow up to three meters. They have very large leaves, but small, unremarkable flowers. They are temperature sensitive. For good growth, the air temperature should be within twenty, twenty-five degrees. In addition, the plant must be cut every two years.
Begonia, its types, varieties and their names, photo
decorative leafy begonias
Begonia metallic
It has medium-sized velvet leaves of muted green color, oval shape.
Their edges are dotted with teeth, and at the top, as if covered with a "metal" coating.
Begonia tiger (Bauer)
Bauer's tiger begonia is otherwise called "Velvet". This is a low bush, up to 30 - 35 cm.
It has small, green, heart-shaped leaves with an animal pattern in dark shades.
Begonia "Mason"
Decorative deciduous plant with large greenery, on which there are patterns in the form of a Maltese cross. The leaf size can reach more than 20 cm in length.
It blooms in small inflorescences of light colors.
Begonia "Fista"
This variety has short fleshy stems and round shiny leaves.
In summer it pleases with small pink flowers.
Not demanding in care.
Begonia "Kredner"
Quite large bushes of this variety have pubescent leaves of green-pink color and large flowers.
Blooms from March to October.
Begonia "Horse-leaved"
The plant is small, bushy.
It has powerful decumbent stems and decoratively carved palmate leaves. Ideal as a tapeworm plant.
Begonia 'Palomar Prince'
The double spiral leaves of this plant have copper- green tint, and light pink flowers bloom mainly in winter.
Easy to grow.
Begonia 'Charlotte Chiffon'
Spectacular plant with silver-pearl leaves, in the center of which is a purple-pink spot.
The edges of the leaves are wavy, with a bright pink border.
Begonia "Green Golg"
A flower with large rounded leaves, twisted in the form of a spiral. The color of the plant is predominantly silvery blue, with brown leaf edging.
The compactness of the plant is given by the shortened petioles of the leaves.
Begonia "Black Prince"
The variety has wonderful velvet leaves of an unusual shape and very discreet flowers.
As the name implies, the leaves are dark green, close to black.
Decorative flowering begonias
Begonia "Senator"
Begonia is ever-flowering, unpretentious in care, will be a wonderful decoration of a flower bed
An annual flower with lush greenery and bright medium-sized inflorescences.
Begonia "Fortune"
The plant has rich terry inflorescences of various colors.
Peduncles are short and strong.
This variety begins to bloom earlier than other species.
Begonia "Fimbriata pink"
Tuberous fringed begonia.
Huge double flowers of yellow-red, pink, orange and other shades will not leave anyone indifferent.
Flowering starts in June
Begonia ampelnaya "Venus"
The plant is unpretentious, pleases with its large semi-double flowers and picturesque greenery.
From a number of ampelous ones, white ampelous begonia and red ampelous begonia stand out with high decorativeness.
Begonia "Grandiflora"
Tuberous begonia with large flowers up to 15-20 cm in diameter.
A compact plant with unusually beautiful flowers, outwardly resembling roses of various color shades.
Flowers can be either simple or double.
Begonia "Apricot" or Begonia "Apricot"
Belongs to the NONSTOP series, i.e. continuous flowering.
A very delicate but showy plant with lush flowers in white, orange, yellow and pink hues.
The petals of which are decorated with a pink edging.
Begonia "Non Stop"
The low annual variety Nonstop is rich in large inflorescences. Its leaves have a bright green tint, and flowering continues throughout the summer.
Continuous flowering at temperatures above +18º
Begonia "Marmorata" (Marmorata)
This perennial shrub grown not only indoors, but also actively used in landscape design.
Bush height about 30 cm, flowering from July
Begonia "Terry" orange
Bright and lush flowers of this plant will decorate any interior.
It is also used in decorating garden plots. TO terry varieties Begonia Makhromchataya also belongs, and Begonia Mix will delight you with a variety of colors.
Begonia "Double White"
It is a plant with large white flowers and dark green foliage.
It does not exceed 30 cm in height.
Begonia "Elatior Borias"
This is an ever flowering begonia. The bush grows up to half a meter, has bright glossy leaves with mottled edges. Flowers of this variety can be both simple and double, with a variety of colors.
Begonia "Bada Boom"
This is a small dense shrub with bronze greenery. The flowers on it are simple white, pink or bright red.
It blooms noticeably earlier than other varieties. Therefore, seeds are sown for seedlings in January-February, planted in open ground when the danger of frost has passed.
Begonia "Pikoti"
This is a spreading low bush with green jagged leaves.
It blooms chic double flowers with a spectacular border on the petals.
Begonia "Crispa Marginata" yellow-red
The leaves on this plant are green with purple edging, and the flowers are yellow with red edging.
Does not exceed 20 cm.
Like all types of begonias, it prefers scattered sunlight
Begonia "Marble"
This is a compact plant with large double pinkish-red inflorescences and carved greenery. Begonia tubers, I advise you to plant in early February in light ground, when the threat of return frosts has passed, transplant into open ground. Begonia will delight with its flowering from May to September
garden begonia
Garden begonia looks great both in city flower beds and in the garden.
Its flowers resemble small roses and bloom from early spring until frost.
Ampel begonia
"Bella" begonia
- "Bella" ampelous begonia. beautiful plant with a fleshy stem and large leaves, it will undoubtedly enliven the interior of any room.
- Another representative of the ampelous begonia, Chanson begonia with lush flowers of red, yellow or white.
- Begonia "Pendula Cascade yellow" is characterized by thick and juicy shades, bright and asymmetrical leaves and falling lush inflorescences.
- Illumination Pink Begonia is a perennial, herbaceous plant. It grows up to 30 centimeters and has heart-shaped green leaves and huge pink double flowers.
- Begonia 'Cascade Florence'. This is a perennial compact shrub, it has a strong stem and light green leaves. big curvy pink flowers Florence are located on hanging branches.
- Begonia "Bolivian". The shoots of this species grow upwards, but, growing to a certain level, they begin to slope effectively, forming a flower cascade downwards. The Bolivian begonia is divided into several varieties. The most popular are Copacabana, Bossa Nova and Santa Cruz Sunset.
Care and reproduction
home begonia does not require special attention. Her main concern is to maintain optimum temperature air, timely watering and top dressing. Outdoor begonias need to be moved indoors during the winter.
seeds
Varieties of ever-flowering begonias are grown from seeds. It is they who best convey their varietal characteristics through the seed material. Seeds germinate very well and amicably.
They are sown in early February so that the young shoots become strong by the onset of autumn. Plant them in shallow containers. The sown seeds are not covered with earth, but only slightly pressed down to the soil. The boxes are covered with glass or polyethylene and the temperature is left in the room, which does not fall below twenty degrees.
In order to avoid washing out the seeds, watering is done by drip or using a spray bottle. After a week, they will begin to sprout. After that, the shoots are gradually accustomed to room temperature, removing the glass and airing the containers.
A month later, the begonia seedlings are transplanted into individual pots of compact size. This should be done carefully, as young shoots are very tender and break easily.
After another month, they are transplanted into permanent pots. These varieties begin to delight with their flowering in the first year of growth.
sprouts
Begonia reproduces well by tubers, but small sprouts must be present on them.
Purchased planting material should be placed on a damp cloth as soon as possible. It is necessary to monitor the moisture content of the fabric until the first roots appear on the tubers. Then they can be planted in pots. The top of the tuber should be on the surface.
When the weather becomes warm enough, the begonia is planted in the garden, buried in the ground along with the pots. And with the onset of autumn frosts, they bring it home and cut the stems. Pots with tubers are left in a cool place for the whole winter. At this time, they are not watered. If sprouts appear, the tuber is freed from the layer of earth to accelerate growth. And when the plant gives several shoots, it is again covered with earth.
