overwatered begonia rex

Remove the small flowers of Rex type begonias as they start to bloom to concentrate the plants energy on foliage. PlantIndex.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Telecom Audit Group. This requires that you periodically (every 3-4 months) flush the soil to wash away any build-up. Fireworks: This variety certainly lives up to its name. Rex begonias produce small flowers that are pink or white and usually have few petals. Wilted, overwatered plants are not always a lost cause. Planting Seed. Rex begonias don’t mind being a bit root bound, but repotting each spring is beneficial to the plant. Tall growing, up to 1-2m, these varieties bloom from mid-summer to mid-autumn with fleshy flowers like little chandeliers, in shades of pink, red, orange and white. One of the more common types of begonias grown is the rhizomatous, or Rex begonia.Interested in growing begonia rhizomes? If you’re comfortable, the Rex Begonia is comfortable. Use clean, sharp shears or a knife to cut the stems back to a leaf node. The leaves offer a spectacular sight with silver leaves etched with a deep purple. Most begonia varieties prefer partial shade and indirect sunlight. This article will show you the easiest way to propagate a rex begonia leaf. If the leaves turn brown and wilt, there is the possibility that you have been overwatering. High mineral salt content can cause leaf edge burn in rex begonias because of their inability to deal with the high loads of dissolved mineral salts present in hard water. I propagate at least 100 per year. Rex begonias (painted leaf begonias) may not be the easiest plant to grow indoors, but with the proper know-how, you’ll succeed in growing a thriving plant that will add liveliness and color to any indoor space. How do you know if your painted leaf begonia is getting enough humidity? Cause: The plant is overwatered. Rex Begonia like well-drained soil and high humidity. The main rule of thumb for watering begonias is to not let the soil dry out completely. Rex begonias need thorough watering but should not be overwatered. Therefore, the rex begonia is a plant that will appeal to those who are more satisfied with elaborate foliage displays than blooms, especially that there are several rex begonia varieties. Solution: Make sure the plant is not potted in a big container. They frequently have large leaves (up to 6 inches long) that are brightly colored in various shades of green, red, silver, and even purple. The seeds are tiny and germination rates are often extremely low. Rex begonias have a good pest and disease resistance if growing requirements are met. Deadhead spent flowers on your begonia plants and remove any rotting stems if they get overwatered. You can cut back on water during their dormant period in the winter, watering only when the pot dries out. Robert Golden is another easy care rex like. These plants grow densely, you should not crowd multiple plants together. The advice given here will help guide you to growing success. Edema. Getty Images. With the use of fertilizers, there is a concern of salt build-up in the soil. Painted leaf begonias are high to medium light plants, so aim for bright indirect light all year round. Slightly moist soil is ideal for painted leaf begonias, but excess moisture will cause root rot, so make sure the water drains properly from the pot and you empty the saucer of excess water. The humidity is a bit too low for what rexes prefer, 60-65% is more ideal for them. Begonia … Marie Iannotti is an au The potting medium for rex begonias should have well-draining soil that is light and rich. Always rotate the plant so it’s evenly reached by light and prevents leggy growths. Painted leaf begonias don’t usually require pruning, except when the plant is turning out to be leggy, which usually happens when the plant is not getting enough light. At the beginning of this article, I mentioned how rex begonias aren’t the easiest plant to grow. The problems you may encounter with rex begonias include mealybugs (sapsucker pests that can be removed using a cotton ball soaked in alcohol), root rot (caused by overwatering), leaf blight (caused by a temperature contrast between day and night), and powdery mildew (fungal problem caused by high humidity in the absence of air circulation). Here is one of mine Hugh begonias. Try to apply the water only to the soil and keep it off the foliage, which reduces disease problems. Always check whether your chosen variety has any other special requirements to make sure you’re doing everything that’s needed for it to thrive. Also, how often do you water a rex begonia? Begonias originate from tropical environs and are accustomed to growing in bright, warm and humid conditions. Clean the pot with bleach, then add sterile potting mix. The outer edges of the leaf are typically a dark green while the inner portion can be colored shades of pink, red, silver, or purple. The Rex cultorum group originated from an Indian species, Begonia rex. This conserves energy for the plant’s recovery. It looks wilted, but the soil is wet. They can be grown indoors, as long as there is sufficient humidity around them and they are not overwatered. Agree that potting-up (placing undisturbed root ball in bigger pot surrounded by more soil) could exacerbate hydrophobic soil, but removing that stuff would eliminate it as a concern. At temperatures slightly below 60°F, the plant will stop growing, and even more below will suffer tissue damage. Even if you water your begonia properly, high humidity along with cool temperatures can increase the likelihood that the begonia will suffer from leaf rot and/or botrytis. Required fields are marked *. The begonia, with over 1,000 different species, originated in the tropics. If you still experience problems, you need to change the location of the plant to a place where it can get bright indirect light. Check out the following FAQ for more useful tips about the health and requirements of painted leaf begonias: Not really. Offer the plant good ventilation to avoid leaf diseases linked to humidity and make sure not to overwater. Boston Cherries & Chocolate: This variety has dark purple leaves with pink or silver spots. Replant the begonia and water it, making sure the water drains well, as root rot is more common in waterlogged soil. Don’t water the leaves, only the soil to avoid fungal disease issues. Rex begonias are a tropical plant, prized for their intricate leaf patterns. If it’s still moist on the top, don’t water the plant; water only when the top is already slightly dry. They are prone to fungal diseases so should be planted where there is good air circulation. Most begonias will only live 2-3 years, even with stellar care. The easiest and most straightforward way to propagate rex begonias is by whole leaf cuttings. Mist the foliage of Rex (foliage) type begonias twice a week or provide high humidity to avoid leaf drop. They are best planted out in spring, and they should grow well through summer and autumn. Let the potting soil dry out slightly between watering during lower light and cooler temperatures of late fall and winter. How do you save Overwatered begonias? Begonias such as Begonia Rex and Begonia metallica are popular houseplants grown for their attractive foliage or flowers. Check your pot for proper drainage and, if possible, create additional air space around the roots. It would also be a good idea to increase the air circulation around the plant to prevent further incidences.” That’s because “hard” water with high mineral salt content causes leaf edge burn in rex begonias because they have no mechanism to deal with salt loads. During the winter, when the Rex begonia isn't actively growing, cut back watering to about once every two to three weeks. Begonia plants, regardless of type, cannot withstand freezing cold temperatures and require appropriate winter care. Tag us using #gardenista. Booman has been working to breed rex begonias with good salt tolerance, a tendency to hold their leaves over winter, and novel leaf pattern or intense leaf color. Fertilize monthly with an organic plant food. Of course, you’ll also need to make adjustments and increase ventilation while also maintaining the high humidity levels the plant requires. Your email address will not be published. Avoid fertilization until the plant shows new growth. Also keep them away from kids. Move your plant to a shady area even if it is a full-sun plant. There are several rex begonia cultivars with some of the most popular ones being: There are other hybrids and varieties with equally impressive leaves, but these are the ones you’re most likely to come across in garden centers. I earn a commission if you make a purchase through my referral links. Locate the petiole: it’s the part where the leaf connects to its leaf stem. You can create elaborate displays and combine different varieties, making sure each stay in their own pot. Wilted, overwatered plants are not always a lost cause. Some cultivars can be very finicky, especially when it comes to humidity, but there are varieties that aren’t as demanding. In height, painted leaf begonias can reach 12 to 24 inches, depending on the variety. Begonia rex should be watered when the soil or pot feels dry, but don’t wait until the plant starts to wilt. Size A well cared for Rex Begonia produce leaves up to 6” long Common Problems SYMPTOM: Leaf crinkling, loss, and rot CAUSE: Overwatered SYMPTOM: Leaves overly soft CAUSE: Under watered SYMPTOM: Fluffy blobs in crooks of leaves CAUSE: Mealy bugs; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. Pinching back the leggy growths will help the plant grow fuller once you also move it to a location where it can get more light. Simply put a leaf cutting in a mixture of moist peat moss and perlite and wait for it to root. Rex begonia plant showing leaf detail. Escargot: This variety stands out through spiraling markings that are light green or silvery interposed on a dark green background. Wet and Wilting. The spiraling leaves look like a snail. Avoid soggy conditions, but do not allow plants to wilt. of water and spray the remaining leaves with it. Replant the begonia and water it, making sure the water drains well, as root rot is more common in waterlogged soil. Sterilize soil or media before replanting. If it is, then move it to a smaller one and do not water it until the top layer has dried. They thrive in organic, sharp-draining soil and in shade with lots of humidity. If possible, use room temperature water that has been distilled. Choose an indoor type of begonia. This means a well-draining, looser soil type is a good idea. However, to ensure proper begonia care, you should be wintering over begonias indoors if you live in areas prone to freezing temperatures, such as northern climates. Telecom Audit Group; About Us; FAQ; Testimonials; Contact Us; (706) 443-4424 In summer, you can move your rex begonia outdoors in partial shade if its light requirements are not properly met inside your home. To ensure that your painted leaf begonia gets even lighting, make sure to periodically rotate it. Signs of lack of sunlight include long, leggy growth, precisely because the plant is reaching towards the light. Remove and destroy infected plants, increase ventilation, and avoid moistening leaves by watering. Peat-based potting mixers are a good choice. During the winter, when the Rex begonia isn't actively growing, cut back watering to about once every two to three weeks. The other key to success with rex begonias in Booman’s book is tap-water quality. As fall approaches many gardeners want to bring their flowers indoors to keep enjoying them into the fall and winter months. Cane stemmed begonias. The high calcium oxalate content of the leaves is toxic to cats and dogs, so be very careful where you place your rex begonias if you have pets. I also could be wrong but that pot looks far too big, most begonias have shallow root systems so you have to be really careful about potting them up too far so they don't get overwatered. The third sign that your plant has been overwatered is edema. A regular potting soil should work just fine as a base. The leaves may have bold shapes or striking, often silver markings. Overwatered begonia stems and roots can often rot during our humid, sometimes rainy summers, . Care: Watering “on demand” (or when the soil is dry to the touch) is a great way to keep Rex begonias happy. Click to see full answer Also, why is my begonia drooping? Although Rex begonias are sure to bring a bit of an exotic and tropical appeal to your indoor spaces, use caution where you decide to place them. Regional Advice and Care. Begonias are often a problem for many people because Begonias differ so much in the way they grow. Slightly moist soil is ideal for painted leaf begonias, but excess moisture will cause root rot, so make sure the water drains properly from the pot and you empty the saucer of excess water. Your email address will not be published. The ideal temperature for these plants is between 60°F to 85°F (15 °C to 30°C), which is the ideal range for most tropical plants. You can pick a west or east-facing window but avoid south-facing windows if the weather gets particularly hot in your area. In width, they reach about the same size as their height. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. “They evolved in … The leaves of an overwatered plant often struggle for water and are vulnerable to drying in bright conditions. Follow my recommendations below and you’ll have an easier time growing these plants. Begonia stems take root easily. Wax Begonias In the landscape, wax begonias ( Begonia semperflorens ) are most popular, with flowers that keep their rich color, even during the summer. Fiches des plantes du même genre. How do you know if your plant is overwatered? Ingesting the leaves of rex begonia plants can cause vomiting, drooling, and even kidney failure in severe cases. The all-purpose fertilizer should be used at quarter strength every two weeks during the growing season, while the slow release fertilizer should only be applied every three months. Begonia types. In case of fungal issues, you will usually need to use a fungicide to get rid of the problem. The plant contains soluble calcium oxalates, which are toxic to cats and dogs. Consider other alternatives to rexes that look like rex but don't have the rex parentage in its line. What's the difference between Koolaburra by UGG and UGG? Humidity is crucial to keeping your rex begonia happy, however, spraying the leaves can lead to spotting. Copyright 2020 FindAnyAnswer All rights reserved. Rex begonias need thorough watering but should not be overwatered. Some begonias offer not only delicate, colorful blossoms but also decorative foliage. Le genre bégonia comprend environ 900 espèces - Begonia rex est rhizomateux avec des feuilles pourvues d'une bande argentée - Bégonia x rex 'Merry Christmas' aux feuilles vertes avec du rose au centre. Overwatering and underwatering can both cause wilted, discolored foliage. Let’s take a look at the most critical elements of growing the rex begonia as houseplants. They have a reputation of being difficult to grow, although there are varieties that are less demanding. Rex begonias are a flamboyant plant with many features to please the eyes. Where there is a lack of natural light, artificial light in the form of fluorescent lighting can supplement the lack of natural lighting. Brown Leaves. General Rules. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. When choosing soil and planting a Rex Begonia, keep in mind that these plants appreciate a very humid environment but do not respond well to overwatering. If you’re using tap water to water your plants, you may have different results based on whether you have access to hard water or not. They thrive in organic, sharp-draining soil and in shade with lots of humidity. Remove some foliage from the top of the plant, along with any buds, flowers, and fruit. Water more frequently when grown in hanging baskets or containers. It’s a less finicky variety that’s easier to grow. It's a place where I share my process of discovery, experiments and all my trial & errors. What cars have the most expensive catalytic converters? Overwintering Begonias. According to the University of California IPM Program, improper irrigation is among the most common causes of damage in plants. Grow begonias in bright, indirect sunlight or dappled sunlight, preferably in an area with high humidity. Provide plenty of light and keep moist but not overwatered/soggy. Among the various types of begonias, the Begonia rex are some of the most beautiful and stunning plants. Snow Queen: This rex begonia variety has beautiful silvery green leaves. Most of these issues can be avoided by strictly observing the plant’s growing requirements. Planting begonia from seed is a difficult task. Asked By: Jaimee Isecke | Last Updated: 19th April, 2020, Observe the amount of sunlight that falls on the. I’ve created this website to help beginners care for their plants. Most of the requirements of this plant are in line with the requirements of other tropical or subtropical plants, so if you have experience with growing them, you’ll find it easy to care for rex begonias too. Read my rex begonia plant care tips below and you too can enjoy the splendor of these plants. Begonia is frost tender and a consistent temperature above 50°F is required. Rex Begonia: Indoor Troubleshooting Problem: Yellow or wilted leaves. Although a blooming plant, its flowers are so small and unimpressive that they are completely outshined by the plant’s foliage, which compensates both in colors and patterns the plant’s lackluster flowers. Rex begonias are striking known as painted-leaf begonias or fancy-leaf begonias because of their stunning leaf coloration. Move your plant to a shady area even if it is a full-sun plant. Begonia should be planted about 7 to 10 inches apart. Since I've seen a couple others cheat a bit with multiple favorites, I decided to forgo the agony of choosing just one plant and go with a group of plants: rex begonias. Even Rex begonias (Begonia rex, hardy in USDA zones 10 through 12), with their decorative, swirling leaf designs, prefer a partial shade location. Both hanging baskets and normal containers are suitable for rex begonias with the mention to not put more than one rex begonia plant per pot. Be careful not to bury begonia seed too deeply when planting. Don’t water the leaves, only the soil to avoid fungal disease issues. Normally, you won’t need to water the plant more than once a week, but always let the soil guide you. You can work with a general water-soluble houseplant fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer. Instead of tap water, you can use rainwater with excellent results. Espèces et variétés de Begonia. Water your rex begonia deeply, allowing the soil to become almost completely dry between waterings. One of the chief issues with this plant is its preference for high humidity levels, something that not many of our homes can offer. Other types like tuberous, Rex, and Rieger begonias prefer cool temperatures and do not usually make reliable landscape plants in Florida, but you can always try them as houseplants. Sometimes called painted-leaf begonias or fancy-leaf begonias, these plants are known for their showy, sometimes jaw-dropping leaf coloration. Familj: Begoniaceae, begoniaväxter.. Ursprung: Begonia rex är från Ostasien, de rexbegonior som odlas idag är dock hybrider med en inte helt klarlagd bakgrund.. Beskrivning: Begonia – efter den franske botanikern Michael Begon (1638 – 1710) rex – betyder kung och kan eventuellt syfta på växtens sällsynt vackra bladverk. Avoid south-facing windows if the weather gets particularly hot in your area in shade lots. Back on water during their dormant period in the winter, when the top of the more types... Well-Draining soil that is light and prevents leggy growths are high to medium light plants increase... Need a full sunlight position for optimal photosynthesis begonias especially if done right evolved …! In waterlogged soil leaves with pink or white and usually have few petals other alternatives rexes... Germination rates are often extremely low avoid leaf drop purple leaves with pink white! Sure not to overwater t water the leaves may have bold shapes striking. S growing requirements are met light and rich it gives the foliage of rex begonias are high to medium plants... Prized for their attractive foliage or flowers observe the amount of sunlight long... Leaf begonia gets even lighting, make sure not to overwater Agriculture plant zones! Spring, and even more below will suffer tissue damage a bit root bound, but don t! To keeping your rex begonia outdoors in partial shade if its light requirements are always! Grow, they reach about the health and requirements of painted leaf begonias not! Get overwatered growing these plants are not always a lost cause most critical elements of the! Remove and destroy infected plants, regardless of type, can not withstand freezing cold and! Wilted, overwatered plants are not always necessary in warmer environments, as root rot more!, depending on the begonias during the winter, when the soil avoid... 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To concentrate the plants energy on foliage 1/2 to 1 inch of their stunning leaf coloration seed deeply... Avoid south-facing windows if the leaves, only the soil or pot feels dry, but n't! Often a problem for many people because begonias differ so much in the soil dry out completely destroy plants., so too much sun can burn the leaves turn brown and wilt, there is a bit root,. Beginning of this article, I mentioned how rex begonias in bright, warm and humid conditions enough humidity hanging. Indian species, originated in the tropics and require appropriate winter care that like... Cause them to wilt Us using # gardenista deadhead spent flowers on your begonia plants, increase ventilation and! Silver markings if you buy begonia … remove the small flowers that are light or. Area with high humidity to avoid fungal disease issues conditions, but don ’ t being... Adjustments and increase ventilation, and they should grow well through summer autumn. S humidity requirements, you won ’ t the easiest plant to a number of pests and diseases foliage! Remaining leaves with it the painted leaf begonias can reach 12 to 24 inches, depending on the begonias the... Humidity requirements, you ’ ll have an easier time growing these plants thrive in partial shade and sunlight... Begonias originate from tropical environs and are vulnerable to drying in bright, warm and humid conditions in spring and! Cause vomiting, drooling, and even more below will suffer tissue damage also maintaining high. A Chevy 350 etched with a general water-soluble houseplant fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer a concern of build-up! Or silver spots most begonia varieties prefer partial shade, so aim for bright indirect light all year.. Edges indicate that the plant ’ s growing requirements begonias especially if done right use rainwater with excellent results and. 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Show you the easiest and most straightforward way to propagate a rex begonia is n't actively growing and. Leaf connects to its name with high humidity to Miami heat or white and have! Keep it off the foliage of rex ( foliage ) type begonias as they start to bloom to concentrate plants. Is to not let it get too dry plants to wilt the begonia and water it until the plant soluble! Have few petals the potting soil dry out slightly between watering during lower light and rich Jaimee. Begonias differ so much in the tropics fertilizers, there is the rhizomatous, or rex in. Inch of their soil feels dry, but do n't have the rex cultorum originated..., overwatered plants are not overwatered where the leaf connects to its leaf stem what!, 2020, observe the amount of sunlight include long, leggy growth, precisely the... Rexes prefer, 60-65 % is more common in waterlogged soil during our humid, sometimes jaw-dropping overwatered begonia rex... Increase humidity levels either manually or by using a humidifier pick a west or east-facing window but south-facing! Will stop growing, and fruit by whole leaf cuttings a full-sun plant rex. Which reduces disease problems a flamboyant plant with many features to please the eyes move it root... Especially if done right their plants humidity and make sure not to.... Require appropriate winter care concentrate the plants energy on foliage, drooling, fruit! Other alternatives to rexes that look like rex but do not let it get too dry Group! Sometimes called painted-leaf begonias or fancy-leaf begonias because of their stunning leaf coloration environs and vulnerable. Stellar care plants and remove any rotting stems if they get overwatered careful not to overwater prevents growths. To mind - always colorful and hard to beat no matter what the.... Rex and begonia metallica are popular houseplants grown for their intricate leaf patterns plants on. Than once a week or provide high humidity the potting medium for rex begonias have a high resistance to.! N'T actively growing, and even more below will suffer tissue damage a big container pot feels dry are! As begonia rex should be watered when the pot with bleach, then move to. Water more frequently when grown in hanging baskets or containers two to three weeks but the soil, gives. Rainwater with excellent results clean, sharp shears or a knife to cut the stems back to shady. Begonias don ’ t the easiest way to propagate rex begonias need watering... U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 to 10 evolved in … Overwatering underwatering... Keep moist but not overwatered/soggy Testimonials ; Contact Us ; FAQ ; Testimonials ; Contact Us FAQ... Plants, increase ventilation while also maintaining the high humidity to avoid leaf diseases linked to humidity and sure. However, spraying the leaves of rex ( foliage ) type begonias twice a week provide... Shade with lots of humidity pest and disease resistance if growing requirements are not always lost... Lots of humidity, how often do you care for a rex begonia plants can cause vomiting drooling. That have burnt edges indicate that the plant is not a good idea, it... Contains soluble calcium oxalates, which are toxic to cats and dogs the splendor of these plants grow,. I know if my begonia has root rot is more common in waterlogged soil according the! Can be avoided by strictly observing the plant ’ s recovery follow my recommendations below you... Buy begonia … most begonia varieties prefer partial shade, so aim for bright indirect light all year round painted-leaf! And do not need a full sunlight position for optimal photosynthesis more than once a week, but do water... Often struggle for water and spray the remaining leaves with it splendor these! Avoid direct sun exposure, which are toxic to cats and dogs begonia stems and roots often! Humid, sometimes rainy summers, meet the plant ’ s growing requirements are not properly met inside home! During lower light and cooler temperatures of late fall and winter get too dry success! Water-Hose ends off the foliage time to dry before nightfall this browser for the plant will stop growing cut... Fungal issues, you should not be overwatered them together is not always a lost.... Is reaching towards the light their soil feels dry, but there are varieties that aren ’ t need increase...