Begonia Care Guide

Light Requirements

    Bright, Indirect Light is best.

    • Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves—especially with rex and rhizomatous types.
    • East or north-facing windows are ideal; west and south-facing windows need sheer curtains.
    • Tuberous and flowering begonias may appreciate slightly more light than foliage types.

    Watering

    Begonias like consistent moisture, but do not tolerate soggy soil.

    • Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
    • Reduce watering in winter or when dormant.
    • Bottom watering helps avoid leaf spots and mildew.
    • Avoid water on leaves, especially with fuzzy-leaf types, to prevent fungal issues.

    Soil & Potting

    Use a light, well-draining mix:

    • Try a mix of peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and a bit of pine bark.
    • Avoid dense or soggy potting mixes.
    • Aroid soil blends or African violet mix work well for many begonias.

    Repot annually or when rootbound, but be gentle—begonias have fragile root systems.

    Temperature & Humidity

      Begonias prefer 65–75°F (18–24°C).

      • Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
      • Never let temperatures drop below 55°F (13°C).

      High humidity (50–60%) is ideal.

      • Group plants together or place on a pebble tray.
      • Avoid misting rex begonias or fuzzy-leaved varieties—this can cause mildew or spotting.
      • A small humidifier nearby can make a big difference.

      Fertilizer

        Feed lightly during the growing season (spring to early fall).

        • Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every 2–4 weeks.
        • Rex and foliage begonias benefit from high-nitrogen formulas.
        • Tuberous and flowering begonias prefer formulas higher in phosphorus.

        Stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows or dormancy begins.

        Pruning & Maintenance

        • Remove dead or yellowing leaves regularly.
        • Pinch back leggy growth to encourage bushier shape.
        • For cane begonias, pruning tall stalks encourages side branching.

        Toxicity

        Begonias are toxic to pets (especially the roots). Keep out of reach of curious cats and dogs.

        Propagation

          Begonias are easy to propagate!

          • Leaf cuttings (for rex and rhizomatous types): Cut a healthy leaf and lay it flat on moist soil or water-root a section of petiole.
          • Stem cuttings (for cane or shrub types): Snip a 4–6 inch piece and root in water or soil.
          • Division: For rhizomatous begonias, divide rhizomes during repotting.