Begonias prefer to grow in moist but not wet soil. If the soil remains too wet for prolonged periods, begonias are susceptible to rot and fungal disease. Tuberous begonia leaves can become stained if splashed with water containing a high mineral content. Begonias can tolerate dry conditions. Wilting is more likely a sign of over-watering than under-watering unless the soil is dry.
How To Tell If The Begonia Needs Watering
If the top couple of inches of soil are dry, it’s time to water your begonia. Always check the soil moisture level before watering if your begonia is wilting. Lack of moisture may not be the reason the begonia leaves are wilting. If the soil is bone dry, water a little at a time. Sometimes dry soils repel water, and it runs out the drainage hole before being absorbed.
How Often To Water Begonias
Water newly planted begonias every few days during dry conditions to help them become established.
Established begonias only need to be watered once a week if it hasn’t rained and the soil feels dry. Check those planted in full sun locations every few days during hot weather. In general, begonias are drought tolerant. Their stems contain high levels of water.
Check the top couple of inches of soil for dryness every few days for container-grown begonias. Water if the soil is dry. Water until some runs out the drainage hole to be sure the entire root zone has received water. Begonias grown in containers placed in sunny locations will need more frequent watering.
Best Time To Water Begonias
The best time of the day to water begonias is in the morning. This allows time for any water splashed on the leaves to dry off before being hit by the afternoon sun hits them or fungal diseases appear if they remain wet overnight. Water indoor begonias weekly if the soil has dried out. They may need less water during the winter if they are not actively blooming or producing new growth.
How To Water Begonias?
Step 1 - Check the soil moisture level.
Insert your finger into the top two inches of soil to assess the moisture level.
Step 2 - Decide if watering is necessary.
If the soil is dry, apply water to the base of the plant. Try not to wet the leaves. If the soil is moist, do nothing.
Step 3 - Container gardening
If the begonia is in a container, add water until it runs out of the drainage hole.
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Author Janice Cox - Published 12-09-2021 |