Begonia Begonia Sweet Spice Bounty Coral (Sweet Spice Series) (T)

Water

The Begonia 'Sweet Spice Bounty Coral' prefers to have consistently moist soil but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Typically, watering should be done when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on the environment, this might mean watering approximately every 7 to 10 days. When watering, use room temperature water and pour slowly around the base of the plant until water begins to run through the drainage holes, indicating the soil is saturated. In warmer months or drier conditions, this plant might require watering twice a week, while in cooler or more humid conditions, the frequency may decrease. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent water from gathering at the bottom.

Light

Begonia 'Sweet Spice Bounty Coral' thrives best in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from harsh, direct afternoon sunlight which can scorch the leaves. A spot near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south- or west-facing window is ideal. It's beneficial to rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth since this plant will grow towards the light source.

Temperature

Begonia 'Sweet Spice Bounty Coral' prefers temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as it is not frost tolerant. At sustained temperatures above 75 degrees, the plant may become stressed and require additional attention to watering and humidity. The ideal setting would maintain a steady temperature within this range, avoiding drafts, sudden temperature changes, or proximity to heating and cooling vents.

Pruning

Pruning Begonia 'Sweet Spice Bounty Coral' encourages bushier growth and can help maintain a tidy appearance. Trimming back leggy stems and removing dead or yellowing leaves can be done as needed throughout the year. The best time for heavy pruning is in the spring, just before the new growth begins. Pruning is also a good opportunity to propagate new plants by using the cuttings. Regular deadheading of spent flowers will promote further blooming.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Begonias prefer well-draining soil with a mix of peat, perlite, and compost. A pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for these plants to thrive.

Repotting

Begonias should be repotted every one to two years, or when the roots outgrow the pot, ensuring minimal stress to the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Begonias favor high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%, to maintain their lush foliage and vibrant blooms.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity for best growth.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade with protection from harsh sun; moist, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Begonia Sweet Spice Bounty Coral begins with seed germination, where warmth and humidity are essential. Upon sprouting, seedlings will gradually develop true leaves and can be transplanted into individual pots. As they mature, the plants enter a vegetative stage, producing lush foliage and eventually flowering when they receive ample light and consistent moisture. The flowers will be vibrant and display the characteristic coral hue. After the blooming period, the plant can be encouraged to flower again by deadheading spent blooms and providing well-balanced fertilization. At the end of the growing season, the begonia can enter a dormant period if conditions simulate a cooler and less active winter-like phase, during which it conserves energy for the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The Begonia Sweet Spice Bounty Coral, a member of the Sweet Spice Series, is typically propagated through stem cuttings, which is the most popular method. The best time to take stem cuttings for propagation is during the plant's active growth period, typically in the spring or early summer. For propagation, a healthy stem cutting with a few leaves is selected and then cut just below a node. The cut end of the stem should be allowed to callous over for a few hours before being planted in a moist, well-draining potting mix. To provide the cutting with the necessary humidity to root, cover the pot with plastic wrap or place it in a propagator. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new Begonia plant can be transferred to a permanent pot.