Pink Champagne Begonia Begonia 'Pink Champagne' (R)

Water

For the Begonia 'Pink Champagne', water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once a week. However, watering frequency depends on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Use room temperature water, and gently pour it around the base of the plant until you see excess water draining out of the bottom, indicating the soil is fully saturated. It's critical to avoid letting the plant sit in water though, so empty the drainage tray after watering. Approximately a pint to a quart of water is sufficient each time you water, but be sure to adjust the amount to your specific plant's response and the pot size.

Light

Begonia 'Pink Champagne' thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. An ideal spot would be near an east or north-facing window that receives plenty of light but is shielded from the harsh afternoon sun. If natural light is lacking, consider using grow lights to supplement.

Temperature

Begonia 'Pink Champagne' prefers temperatures between 60 and 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures of 50°F but should not be exposed to temperatures below this as it can cause damage. Keep the plant away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations to maintain a stable environment.

Pruning

Pruning Begonia 'Pink Champagne' is important to maintain plant shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. It is best done in the spring before new growth begins. Cut back any leggy stems using clean, sharp scissors or pruners, and remove spent flowers to promote further blooming. Prune sparingly and regularly, taking care not to overdo it as this could harm the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Pink Champagne Begonia is light, well-draining with high organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark in equal parts works well. Maintain soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Pink Champagne Begonia should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and allow room for growth. Spring is the best time for repotting to minimize stress on the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Pink Champagne Begonia thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% and 70%. Avoid environments that are too dry as it may cause the leaves to brown and crisp.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep in bright, indirect light with high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Ensure filtered light, shelter from elements, high humidity.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Begonia 'Pink Champagne' begins with seed germination, where the seeds require light to sprout and should be sown on a well-draining growing medium. Once germinated, seedlings go through a growth phase where they develop true leaves and gradually mature into young plants, requiring consistent moisture, indirect sunlight, and protection from harsh conditions. After reaching maturity, which may take several months to a couple of years, the plant begins the blooming phase, producing its characteristic pink flowers; for 'Pink Champagne', flowering can occur multiple times if growing conditions are favorable. Following pollination, if it occurs, the plant may produce seed capsules, which when mature, will release seeds and start anew the cycle. Throughout its life, Begonia 'Pink Champagne' experiences cycles of active growth in warmer months and dormancy in cooler months, requiring less water during its rest period. The plant can live for several years with proper care, and its life can be extended through vegetative propagation methods such as leaf or stem cuttings, which can be rooted to develop new plants.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• Propogation: The Begonia 'Pink Champagne' is commonly propagated through leaf cuttings, a method best carried out in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by leaf cuttings, select a healthy leaf and cut it into sections, ensuring each section has at least one vein. These sections are then placed on the surface of a moist, well-draining potting mix, such as a 50/50 blend of peat and perlite, and covered with plastic to maintain humidity. The veins should be in contact with the soil, and within a few weeks, small plantlets will begin to form at the cut veins. Once these plantlets have developed their own roots, they can be carefully separated from the mother leaf and transplanted into individual pots.