Begonia Autumn

🌞 1. Light

• Bright, indirect light is best — avoid harsh midday sun, which scorches leaves.

• Indoors: place near a north or east-facing window, or behind a sheer curtain if facing west/south.

• Outdoors (in warm climates): morning sun + afternoon shade is ideal.

• Rex begonias (grown for foliage) prefer slightly lower light than flowering types.

💧 2. Watering

• Begonias like slightly moist but not soggy soil.

• Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry.

• Always ensure good drainage — they hate “wet feet.”

• Use room-temperature water and avoid wetting the leaves, which can cause spotting or mildew.

• In dry, air-conditioned rooms (like Dubai apartments), you can increase humidity by:

  • Misting occasionally,

  • Using a pebble tray with water, or

  • Grouping plants together.

🌿 3. Soil

• Use a light, airy, well-draining mix, e.g.:

  • 2 parts peat or coco peat

  • 1 part perlite

  • 1 part compost or organic matter

• Avoid heavy garden soil — it holds too much moisture and can cause root rot.

🌸 4. Feeding

• Feed every 2–4 weeks during the active growing season (spring through early autumn).

• Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser (like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20), diluted to half strength.

• For Rex or foliage begonias, choose one slightly higher in nitrogen for lush leaves.

• Stop or reduce feeding in winter when growth slows.

✂️ 5. Pruning & Grooming

• Remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly to prevent fungal issues.

• Pinch off spent flowers to encourage new blooms.

• You can pinch back stems to make bushier growth.

🧺 6. Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–28 °C (65–82 °F).

• Keep away from AC vents.

• Maintain moderate to high humidity (50–60%), especially indoors.