Begonia Rex Care

Rex begonias are one of the easiest houseplants to care for and happy in many conditions. But they will also let you know if they feel that their water, light, and soil conditions are a bit off for their liking.

How often do you water a Begonia rex?

Try to apply the water only to the soil and keep it off the foliage, which reduces disease problems. If you water early in the day, it gives the foliage time to dry before nightfall. During the winter, when the Rex begonia isn't actively growing, cut back watering to about once every two to three weeks.

How long do rex begonias last?

A variety of a group of begonias known as Rex begonias (Rex cultorum group), Escargot is a cultivar that reaches about 6 to 12 inches in height. In warm climates where freezing winter temperatures do not occur, Rex begonias are evergreen perennials that live for many years.

Do rex begonias prefer shade?

These plants prefer shaded, humid conditions and rich, aerated soil like that found on the forest floor. Too much water and fertilizer is the kiss of death for Rex begonias. Soggy soil and prolonged wet leaves and stems can lead to rot, while highly concentrated fertilizer will burn the foliage.

Should I mist my rex begonia?

Humidity. Will tolerate dry air but prefer high humidity. Avoid misting, which can lead to problems with powdery mildew.

Do rex begonias need misting?

Answer: While rex begonias and many other houseplants prefer high relative humidities, misting is ineffective unless you're prepared to mist the plants several times a day. Also, rex begonias are not fond of water on their foliage.

Can you bottom water a rex begonia?

It some more the most important step here now is to make sure that you drain every ounce of water

What are the common problems with Begonia rex?

Growing Problems Wilting or drooping leaves is one of the most visible problems in growing Begonia rex. But that is just a result of a deep-seated issue. Watering problems (overwatering or underwatering), lack of light or too much of it, low humidity, or even pests and diseases can make a sick plant.

Should begonias be watered from the 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.

How do you winterize rex begonias?

Place a layer of peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust in a small cardboard box. Lay the tubers on the storage medium, then cover the tubers with additional peat, vermiculite, or sawdust. Store the tubers in an area with a temperature of 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not allow the tubers to freeze.

Do Begonia rex go dormant?

Some Rexes have a semi-dormancy where they simply stop growing for several weeks, some shed a few leaves and rest a while before resuming growth, and others drop every leaf and remain fully dormant until growing conditions improve in spring.

How long do begonias last in pots?

No begonia has a long life span. Most only live for 2 to 3 years, even with good care.

Do begonias like morning or afternoon sun?

They do best in situations with shade or morning sun/afternoon shade. Most varieties have flowers that hang down a little, making tuberous begonias ideal for hanging baskets and window boxes rather than garden beds and borders. No matter where you grow them, make sure they have good drainage to prevent rot.

Where do you place Begonia rex?

Rex begonias do well in bright indirect light. Some direct sun is okay for short times, especially if it is from an eastern window that has morning sun, which is gentler. For periods of the year where the sun is strongest, or if you live in an area that has strong sun, you will want to avoid too much direct sun.

Do begonias do better in pots or in the ground?

Begonias prefer growing in light, rich soil with a good concentration of humus, similar to the makeup of potting soil. So it's no surprise the plants tend to thrive in containers. Begonias planted in a pot should be spaced 4-6″ apart and with the tubers buried hollow-side up.

Do rex begonias like coffee grounds?

Begonias benefit from an acidic soil, which the peat moss gives it. Adding some used coffee grounds to the soil will work wonders for begonias.

Do rex begonias like to be root bound?

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.

Do rex begonias like to dry out?

It is preferable to keep the soil somewhat drier. But never fully dry out the soil since this can soon kill your rex begonia. It's best not to get the leaves too wet, as this can lead to powdery mildew. Your painted leaf may go dormant and drop its leaves in the winter months.

How do you keep begonias blooming?

11 Tips to Keep Your Begonias Blooming all Season Long

1. 1 Water, But Not Too Much.
2. 2 Give Them Adequate Sun.
3. 3 Use Light Soil.
4. 4 Fertilize Them Regularly.
5. 5 Use a High Quality Compost.
6. 6 Deadhead When Needed.
7. 7 Choose The Right Varieties.
8. 8 Pick a Proper Location.

How big does a rex begonia get?

Ballet Rex begonia features fabulous silvery-green leaves edged in mid-green. Reddish stems accent the plant. It grows about 8 inches tall and wide.