Begonia Babes
got succulents down, and are looking to take your plant collection to the next level? Try the lovely Begonia. Native to tropical Asia and India, this fancy friend (Begonia rex, to be exact) comes in a variety of different leaf choices. Smooth to crinkly. circular, bat winged, or heart shaped. some are flashy and metalic, while others prefer more basic earth-tones.
these plants have relatively low water requirements. if you keep their soil wet all the time, the roots will rot and the plant will die. Begonias like the soil to dry out in between watering - similar to cacti!
plants need more water when in active growth (putting out new leaves or flowers), and less when dormant/inactive growth (your plant suddenly seems like its not growing). Begonias can go into a state of semi-dormancy in winter - but not always. just make sure you keep an eye on you plant, check the soil, and water accordingly.
Begonias also tolerate low-light environments. if you put one in direct the leaves will crisp up and burn. so you are better off setting one inside your house instead of on your porch.
what makes a Begonia tricky is its need for humidity- being native to the tropics it does like humidity - but it does not like water touching its leaves, so spritzing it with a spray bottle is not an option. whats best for begonias is placing small saucers of water around the plant, so the water can evaporate in the are around it. Or placing your plant under a glass container - just be sure the leaves don't touch the glass. or if you have a room with a humidifier in it - that's the room for your Begonia!
DIFFICULTY : 3/5
Guide to Houseplants - Rex Begonia
