Begonia 'Rose With Bronze Leaf' Begonia × benariensi (Big series Group) 'Rose With Bronze Leaf'

Water

The Big Begonia 'Rose With Bronze Leaf' should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During active growth in spring and summer, this may require watering approximately every 7 to 10 days, but always check soil moisture before adding water. It's best to use a watering can to gently water the plant at the base, avoiding splashing water on the leaves to prevent disease. Provide enough water so that it runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This may equate to around 16-32 ounces for a standard indoor pot, depending on size; adjust as needed for your specific conditions.

Light

Big Begonia 'Rose With Bronze Leaf' thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It is best to place it near an east or west-facing window where it will receive moderate light but be protected from the harsh direct sun of midday, which can scorch its leaves.

Temperature

Big Begonia 'Rose With Bronze Leaf' prefers temperatures between 65°F and 75°F during the day and no cooler than 60°F at night. It should be protected from temperatures below 50°F, as cold temperatures can damage the plant. The ideal temperature range ensures vigorous growth and blooms.

Pruning

Big Begonia 'Rose With Bronze Leaf' benefits from pruning to remove dead or wilted flowers and leaves, which encourages new growth and bloom production. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Snip the stems just above a leaf node using clean, sharp shears.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Begonias such as the Big Begonia 'Rose With Bronze Leaf' thrive best in a light, well-draining potting mix that includes peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. The ideal pH for this plant's soil is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.

Repotting

Big Begonias generally require repotting every one to two years or when the plant outgrows its current pot. Freshen up the soil mix to ensure continued growth and health.

Humidity & Misting

Big Begonias prefer high humidity levels, ideally between 50% to 60%. They benefit from a humid environment but should not be subjected to wet foliage.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place near bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity for Big Begonia.

• Outdoor

  Choose a shaded spot with morning sun and shelter from harsh weather for Big Begonia.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Big Begonia, Begonia × benariensis 'Rose With Bronze Leaf', begins its life cycle with seed germination, which typically occurs in warm, moist soil within a couple of weeks after planting. After germination, the seedling stage is characterized by the growth of a pair of initial leaves and the establishment of a rudimentary root system. As the plant enters the vegetative growth stage, it develops a bushy structure and bronze-tinted leaves, with an increasing number of leaf nodes. Flowering commences once the plant matures, showcasing clusters of rose-colored flowers that attract pollinators and may last several weeks to months depending on environmental conditions. Post-pollination, if conditions are conducive, the flowers may produce seeds, completing the sexual reproduction cycle. The plant will continue to grow and may require pruning to maintain shape until senescence sets in, leading to a gradual decline in vigor and potentially the end of the plant's life unless propagation through cuttings has occurred.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• The Big Begonia, known for its lush rose-colored flowers and striking bronze leaves, is typically propagated through stem cuttings, which is the most popular method due to its ease and effectiveness. To propagate by stem cuttings, one should select a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches long (which is approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) and remove the lower leaves. The cut end of the stem can then be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Next, the stem is planted in a well-draining soil mix, making sure at least one node is buried where leaves were removed, as this is where roots will develop. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the cutting should be placed in bright, indirect light. Roots usually begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new begonia plant can be transplanted into its final container or garden space.