PROPAGATING BEGONIAS

So you want to propagate begonias? Well, it takes some knowledge of what it takes to be successful. Begonias require a very well drained prop mix whether it be leaves, stems, pieces, etc...

Do you have a greenhouse? If not, a large plastic tub will also do but make sure it is sterile. The best prop mix is similar to:

1/2 perlite
1/4 dry peat moss
1/4 vermiculite (large type preferred)
handful of bone meal for some in initial fertilizing....

Drier climates can use more peat moss. Thoroughly soak the mix prior to sticking the cuttings. More to come.

This is Begonia 'Bashful Bandit', a hybrid I created in the 1990's. It was part of a trio from related crosses I selected. However, thanks to Hurricane Jeanne I lost it (and a lot more). THANK YOU to my friend Frances in West Palm as I have it back. It is beautiful, and by spring I will have it propagating once again.

This is one of the "Blue" orchids. Not really blue, but close. It is a Laeliacattleya, or Lc.  'Roebling'. This orchid will bloom several times a year if conditions are good. This blooming occurred in spring, and my plant is now getting ready to bloom again.

Tornado Damage

Sorry I haven't blogged, but TS Debby spawned a tornado here in New Port Richey that messed the neighborhood up. The roar was so scary. A lot of damage in the area, including my yard. This is just an example. The cleanup is taking forever. Most of my fence is lost. The shadehouses are a mess - the plants not too bad. I guess they were lower to the ground. More later.

Vanda orchid

Here is a Vanda blooming happily in the yard. It stays outdoors in lots of sun unless it is really cold, then it comes inside. Look at that root system!

It was a wonderful visit to West Palm Beach and see my old friends with the Begonia Society of the Palm Beaches. Virginia is doing better, Frances was a spectacular hostess and hospitality-in-charge as I was so comfortable, and even treated to a wonderful breakfast - and even better, great conversation with her hubby, Keith, there too. The program I did was on "Tricks of the Trade" as I offered little tidbits of information in growing begonias. I brought a Hyundai full of plants and sold every one, and donated a nice 'Honeymoon Island' for their gardens. It will get huge and look wonderful. Thanks to everyone at the BSPB. I look forward to a future visit!

                                            
                                         BEGONIA SOCIETY
                                                    OF THE
                                             PALM BEACHES

B. 'Aripeka' - sister seedling to 'Honeymoon Island'

Begonia 'Silvermist'. A rather aggressive cane that can reach 5 feet or more, if allowed. The silver streaks and patterns against the apple green leaves is stunning, and those FRAGRANT clusters of bright pink flowers just make it special. An easy begonia to grow, too.

B. 'Silvermist'