Begonia x Semperflorens-cultorum

Wax Begonia complete care guide South Africa

Description:

The Wax Begonia is a compact plant with fleshy steams and green and bronze leaves that forms clusters of leaf axils in various colours.

Other names:

Bedding Begonia, Wax Begonia, Wax Leaf Begonia

Other Names

Bedding Begonia, Wax Begonia, Wax Leaf Begonia

Plant Summary

Size:

75cm x 75cm

Flowers:

October – February

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Origin:

Brazil

Maintenance

Light Preference

Light Preference

Frost Sensitivity

Watering Needs

Begonia x Semperflorens-cultorum

care guide

When to ferilise

Spring to autumn

How to Fertilise

Bedding Wax Begonias with a balanced, soluble fertiliser (8:8:8 or a 10:10:10) every 4 to 6 weeks. Replace the balanced fertiliser with a soluble high-potassium feed like Multifeed Flowergro 3:1:6 during the summer.

Begonias can by cut back to within 7 cms of the soil to revitalise them. and encourage flowering.

Wax Begaonias grow well rich moist soil with good drainage.

Water when the top 10mm of the soil becomes dry and avoid watering the leaves to prevent powdery mildew from forming.

When

September to February

How to encourage flowering

To make begonias bloom, plant in an area with indirect light and keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Use a balanced fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, and remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. (See Fertilisation for more information.)

Maintain a consistent temperature around 18-24°C and try to avoid drafts and temperature extremes - better environmental control is easier when planting Wax Begonias in containers.

Begonias thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Coming from Brazil, Begonias love humidity and will flourish with a humidity tray.