Wednesday, October 10, 2012

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.