Begonia in a pot: how to care for her, why she wilts and how to help a flower in this case?
Many gardeners are faced with the fact that begonia leaves begin to darken, curl and dry.
In this article, we will examine in detail how to properly and efficiently save a plant when it withers and why this happens.
At the same time, we will consider observing simple irrigation rules, how to properly feed this beauty and what pests she is subject to.
Also in this article you can see a useful video on the proper care of begonias.
What is this plant?
Begonia is a beautiful perennial plant, which got its name in the second half of the seventeenth century thanks to Michel Begon, who described the flower in detail.
In total, there are almost three thousand varieties of this plant, 2000 of which are derived artificially. The flower grows beautifully both at home and in the open ground..
Growth Features
Begonia is very photophilous, while the optimal temperature for plant growth is 15-24 degrees Celsius. The plant should be protected from direct sunlight, so the leaves are very sensitive and burns easily appear on them. The plant will feel best on the southwest or southeast side.
Watering
The flower must be watered in a timely manner. In the spring-summer period, this procedure is carried out daily, in winter, the irrigation frequency should be reduced. With a lack of moisture, the growth and development of the plant can completely stop.
Wherein it is important to follow simple watering rules:
- Water should settle for several days.
- The temperature of the liquid should be the same as the room temperature.
Top dressing
The flowering process is usually very plentiful. Accordingly, during this period, the plant must be fed. Mineral concentrates are well suited for fertilizer. Now in specialized stores you can also find fertilizers designed specifically for begonias - they are also great for supporting plants during the growing season.
Causes of the problem
From the external state, one can almost always determine what is wrong with a plant, which he lacks, accordingly, based on this, you can make the right decision about what help you need to provide the flower.
Insufficient watering
Such a sign signals that the plant does not receive the amount of moisture it needs. This applies to both direct watering and air humidity.
Helping the plant in this situation is easy enough:
- It is necessary to establish the correct watering regime. The plant needs to be watered with a slight drying of the topsoil.
- In winter, the plant must be sprayed regularly from the spray gun (you can find flower care tips in the winter here). But you need to consider that it is better to spray water on a plant with fleecy leaves next to the pot.
- A container of water that should be placed next to it will help to cope with dry air.
Little light
Yellowing leaves indicate that the plant lacks light. If the first signs of yellowness appeared on the plant, then a more illuminated place should be found for it. It is important to remember that begonia does not tolerate direct sunlight.
reference! In case of yellow leaves, pay attention also to watering. In some cases, yellowness appears when there is insufficient or excess moisture.Too much moisture
If the leaves of the plant are darkened and begin to rot, then this means that the flower is too abundantly watered. In this case, the frequency of watering should be reduced. Sick leaves need to be removed.
Not enough micronutrients
Even under ideal conditions, signs of wilting may appear on begonias. Very often this is due to the fact that the plant does not receive all the necessary substances in sufficient quantities. Often this happens during the flowering period. In order to solve the problem of wilting in this case, it is necessary to introduce a complementary plant. This should be done at least three times a month.
Diseases and Pests
The plant is extremely susceptible to powdery mildew and signs of rot.. In addition, caterpillars, thrips and aphids can attack the flower.
The plant should be examined in order to take appropriate measures at the first appearance of pests and diseases:
- When rot and powdery mildew appear: it is best to transplant the flower into a new soil, remove the affected leaves, treat the plant with a fungicide.
- When pests appear: Spray the plant with karbofos, phytoverm or intavir, after which it is better to place the flower for a day under a moist package, so that the effect of the preparations is enhanced.
Read more about the diseases and pests of begonias here.
Old leaves die off
In begonia, the lowest leaves dry out and die. This is a natural process, in this case, you can simply remove them along with the cuttings.
Preventative measures
- Be sure to watch the watering of the plant. Overmoistening, as well as a lack of moisture, can destroy the plant.
- If the air in the room is dry, ensure regular spraying or place a small container of water near the plant.
- During the flowering period, feed begonia with fertilizers at least three times a month.
- Inspect the flower more often for diseases and pests in order to help the plant in a timely manner.
Conclusion
With proper care, begonia will for a long time please with abundant and fairly long flowering. It’s easy to figure out how to create ideal conditions for the plant, given that this will not require anything complicated.