Begonia

Wax Begonia Flower Description

Wax Begonia and other begonias are cultivated as annual plants for summer flower beds, containers and hanging baskets. These plants reach heights of 15 to 24cm and come in a range of colours including white, pinks and reds. Begonias flower from early summer to mid autumn, or until the first hard frosts arrive.

The leaves of the begonia plant are shiny and are green, bronze or even purple. Wax begonias can be lifted in autumn and brought indoors. The will continue to bloom if sited in a bright position.

Cultivation of Begonia Plants

Begonia seeds should be sown in late winter to early spring under glass at a temperature of 16 degrees Celsius. Seedlings should be pricked out into potting compost in plant boxes.

The seedlings should be hardened off in flower beds or containers in the late spring. The plants should be set between 20 to 25cm apart from each other.

Begonias should be sited in a sunny position in moist, rich, and well-drained soil.

Begonia Pests and Diseases

Most varieties of Begonia are susceptible to a powdery mildew on leaves and stems.