Watering Begonias: A Comprehensive Guide
Begonias are beautiful plants that can add a splash of color to any garden. But like all plants, they need the right care to thrive. One of the most important aspects of begonia care is watering.
Watering Begonias in Open Ground
Begonias prefer to grow in well-drained soil. If your soil is too heavy or compacted, it can lead to waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other problems.
In general, begonias grown in open ground should be watered once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. The best way to water begonias is to soak the soil deeply, then allow it to dry out before watering again.
Watering Begonias in Containers
Begonias grown in containers need to be watered more frequently than those grown in open ground. This is because the soil in containers dries out more quickly.
As a general rule, begonias in containers should be watered every 3-4 days, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Again, the best way to water begonias in containers is to soak the soil deeply, then allow it to dry out before watering again.
Watering Begonias in Winter
Begonias go dormant in winter, so they don’t need as much water as they do during the growing season. However, it’s important to keep the soil slightly moist, especially if the weather is warm and dry.
Begonias that are overwintering in a cool, dark place may not need to be watered at all. But if the soil is dry to the touch, you can give them a light watering.
Signs of Improper Watering
Both overwatering and underwatering can cause problems for begonias.
Signs of overwatering:
- Yellowing leaves
- Drooping leaves
- Wilting
- Root rot
Signs of underwatering:
- Dry, crispy leaves
- Brown leaf tips
- Drooping leaves
- Wilting
If you’re not sure whether your begonia is getting the right amount of water, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and water less frequently.
Benefits of Liquid Fertilizer
In addition to watering, begonias also need to be fertilized regularly. Liquid fertilizer is a quick and easy way to provide your begonias with the nutrients they need to grow and bloom.
Balanced feeds, specifically formulated for use with ornamentals, should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. Decrease feeding your begonia when the plant stops blooming, allowing the plant ample time for preparation for winter.
How to Properly Water a Begonia from Below to Prevent Disease and Support Function
Watering begonias from below is a great way to prevent disease and support function. When you water from above, the water can splash onto the leaves, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Watering from below also helps to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.
To water a begonia from below, simply place the pot in a sink or tub filled with water. The water should come up to about the halfway point of the pot. Allow the pot to sit in the water for about 30 minutes, or until the soil is completely saturated.
After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the water and allow it to drain. Be sure to discard any excess water that has drained from the pot.
Using Drip Irrigation Lines or Soaker Hoses for Watering Begonias
Drip irrigation lines and soaker hoses are two great ways to water begonias efficiently and effectively. Drip irrigation lines deliver water directly to the roots of the plants, which helps to prevent water waste and runoff. Soaker hoses are similar to drip irrigation lines, but they emit water along their entire length, which makes them ideal for watering large areas.
If you’re using drip irrigation lines or soaker hoses to water your begonias, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.
Weekly Watering of Begonias in Containers During Active Growth in Spring and Summer
During the active growth period in spring and summer, begonias in containers should be watered weekly. The best way to water begonias in containers is to soak the soil deeply, then allow it to dry out before watering again.
To check if the soil is dry, stick your finger in the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water.
Daily Monitoring of Potted Begonia Plants for Signs of Water Stress
It’s important to monitor your potted begonia plants daily for signs of water stress. If the leaves are wilting or drooping, it’s a sign that the plant needs to be watered.
To water a potted begonia plant, simply pour water onto the soil until it is completely saturated. Be sure to discard any excess water that has drained from the pot.
Avoiding Overwatering Begonias During Cold Periods
Begonias are sensitive to cold temperatures, so it’s important to avoid overwatering them during cold periods. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
If you’re not sure whether your begonia is getting the right amount of water, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and water less frequently.
Misting or Setting Potted Begonias Atop Shallow Gravel Beds Filled with Water to Maintain Humidity in Winter
If you’re overwintering your begonias indoors, it’s important to maintain humidity around the plants. This will help to prevent the leaves from drying out and becoming crispy.
One way to maintain humidity is to mist the plants regularly. Another way is to set the pots atop shallow gravel beds filled with water. The water will evaporate and create a humid environment around the plants.
Conclusion
Watering begonias is an essential part of begonia care. By following the tips in this article, you can help your begonias thrive.
