Most begonia varieties can only be overwintered with a certain amount of effort and under very specific conditions. On the other hand, frosty temperatures outside are completely unproblematic if you bring the blossoms of the begonias with the specially bred Elatior begonias inside the house all year round.
How to properly care for Elatior begonias?
The optimal care of Elatior begonias includes regular but sparing watering, annual repotting in fresh potting soil, removal of wilted leaves and flowers, pest control, occasional fertilization and consistent temperatures of 15-22 ° C all year round as well as sufficient daylight without direct sunlight Sunlight.
How often should an Elatior begonia be watered?
The root ball of an Elatior begonia should never dry out completely, but these begonias are also extremely sensitive to waterlogging. That's why you should water the plants in the pot regularly, but generally sparingly. Daily watering is not necessary, the surface of the soil should be completely dry before watering again.
When and how can the Elatior begonia be repotted without problems?
Since the plants grow relatively compactly, repotting is usually not necessary due to plant growth. However, it doesn't hurt if you carefully shake off the old substrate from the root ball about once a year at any time and place the plants in fresh potting soil. Since the commercial potting soil is usually already slightly pre-fertilized, you can then do without additional fertilization for a few weeks.
Should this type of begonia be cut?
Pruning is actually not necessary for these plants as they grow very compactly anyway. However, cuttings can be cut for propagation if necessary. Wilted leaves and flowers should be collected regularly.
How to keep pests away from Elatior begonias?
Aphids and thrips can sometimes become a problem on Elatior begonias. These can be removed either with appropriate chemical agents or mechanically by washing or wiping. If feeding damage caused by the black weevil is visible on the leaves, you should collect the nocturnal beetles at night with a flashlight.
What diseases can occur in Elatior begonias?
Maintenance errors such as incorrect location usually lead to deficiency symptoms and increased susceptibility such as fungal diseases. If a specimen is already severely affected by powdery mildew, it should be discarded in case of doubt so that other plants cannot be infected.
How are Elatior begonias optimally fertilized?
During the summer months, the Elatior begonias should receive sparingly dosed liquid fertilizer with the irrigation water about every two to four weeks.
How to best care for Elatior begonias in winter?
Since these types of begonias are designated houseplants, the following conditions should prevail all year round if possible:
- even temperatures between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius
- sufficient daylight
- no location in the blazing sun
- even moisture without waterlogging
- If possible, no dry, warm heating air or drafts
Tip
The Elatior begonia can be propagated relatively easily using cuttings, which form their own roots within a few weeks under suitable conditions.