There have already passed more than three centuries as begonia has for the first time appeared on the European continent. During this time the begonia from the wild flower which is initially growing on the tropical Antilles and in the jungle of Brazil has turned into one of the most popular ornamental house plants.
In total in the world there are not less than 900 species of begonia, however as house plant generally flower growers grow up so-called tuberous begonia. This plant is rather unpretentious and all care for it comes down to implementation of several simple procedures.
Soil, lighting and temperature condition
The soil in which the begonia grows has to be friable and contain big percent of organic fertilizers. Ideal soil for begonia – the greenhouse earth for houseplants (is available on sale in specialized shops) with addition of the rerotting manure and peat. Only it will be better if as baking powder to add a little bank sand to this structure.
In order that the begonia not only steadily developed, but also from time to time pleased in the magic flowers, it is necessary to have pot with plant in well lit place. At the same time the flower needs to be placed where it will not be disturbed by direct sunshine. The begonia does not love drafts therefore it is desirable to place plant far away from open window leaves and windows. The begonia, as well as the majority of ornamental house plants, badly transfers sharp temperature drops. Therefore for the stable growth of the tropical beauty it is necessary to maintain summer indoor temperature in limits 18-20os, and during the winter period to watch that temperature indicators did not fall lower than 15 wasps. The begonia is not especially exacting to the increased air humidity, however nevertheless it needs periodically to be sprayed. When spraying it is necessary to try not to allow water ingresses on plant flowers.
Watering and fertilizing
It is necessary to water begonia regularly, especially it concerns the spring and summer period and early fall. The optimum number of waterings at this time – two-three in week. If summer air temperature too is high, waterings should be made every day. Late fall and in the winter the plant stays at rest therefore only occasionally needs watering. It is important to remember that watering begonia, it is not desirable to allow water ingresses on stalks and leaves of plant as excessive moisture can become the activator of number of dangerous diseases, such as mealy dew. The excess of moisture in the soil can lead to rotting of root system of begonia. The begonia needs fertilizing a little organic and mineral fertilizers as the plant receives all useful substances from the soil. It is necessary to feed up flower only in case it grows in old soil, with the small content of vitamins and minerals. For fertilizing it is recommended to use only special fertilizer for ornamental, tropical plants.