How to propagate Begonia flowers for faster rooting
Today's article introduces how to propagate Begonia flowers for faster rooting and the techniques for cutting propagation of Begonia, which is related to flower planting experience. Here is the comprehensive introduction.
Begonia is a plant belonging to the family Begoniaceae and genus Begonia, with glossy green leaves and bright red flowers. It is an easy-to-care-for flowering plant with a very long blooming period. Under normal maintenance conditions, it can bloom throughout the year. It can also bloom normally in low temperatures between 5℃ and 0℃. The propagation of Begonia usually uses cutting methods, which have a high survival rate and quick results, allowing for flowering as soon as the cuttings take root.
Begonia
There are usually two methods for propagating Begonia: one is the water cutting method, and the other is the matrix cutting method. The water cutting method also has a very high survival rate and roots quickly, and it is quite直观. However, Begonia propagated in water has difficulty adapting to the soil environment when transferred to soil cultivation, which can easily lead to root rot and death. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the water cutting method for propagating Begonia.
Let's discuss the matrix cutting propagation method for Begonia with fellow gardening enthusiasts, the things to note, and the subsequent maintenance management, hoping it helps fellow gardeners in need.
Begonia
Methods and precautions for propagating Begonia:
The method for propagating Begonia is quite simple: select a suitable branch and insert it into a chosen matrix. There's not much to say about the method. The only thing that needs special attention during the propagation process is that when inserting Begonia into the matrix, it's best not to insert it directly. Begonia branches are very fragile and can easily break or get bruised. Before inserting, it's best to use a chopstick or bamboo skewer to make a small hole in the matrix, then insert the Begonia branch and gently press the surrounding matrix to make the branch fully contact the matrix. Below are some other precautions:
One, environmental conditions. Begonia cutting propagation can be done all year round as long as the ambient temperature is above 0℃, and it can basically survive. However, when the ambient temperature is above 10℃, the rooting speed will be faster. At around 20℃, the rooting speed is the fastest, usually taking about a week to root and survive. If the ambient temperature is above 30℃, the cuttings are prone to black rot, leading to propagation failure. After cutting Begonia, do not expose it directly to sunlight; bright scattered light is sufficient. Also, good ventilation in the cutting environment is quite important.
Begonia
Two, branch selection. Both new and old branches of Begonia can root and survive, but older branches are stronger and will bloom quickly after surviving. Generally, branches that have bloomed can be chosen for propagation.
Three, matrix selection. The choice of matrix for Begonia cutting is quite flexible, and even general garden soil can be used for successful propagation. However, later maintenance can be more complicated. It's best to use a loose matrix like river sand, vermiculite, or perlite for cutting. Post-transplanting and maintenance will be more worry-free.
Four, disinfection treatment. The failure of Begonia cutting propagation is often due to black rot. Therefore, simple disinfection of the matrix and branches before cutting is necessary. You can choose to use carbendazim or potassium permanganate, diluted to 0.1% solution, and soak the branches for three to five minutes. Then use the same disinfectant solution to water the cutting matrix to kill or reduce the number of bacteria, reducing the chance of black rot.
Five, post-cutting management. After cutting Begonia, it should be provided with bright scattered light, a well-ventilated environment, and the cutting matrix should be kept moist but not waterlogged. At an ambient temperature of about 20℃, it usually takes about a week to root and survive.
How to propagate Begonia flowers for faster rooting
Begonia
After Begonia roots and survives, usually after about a month of care, the root system will become relatively developed, and it can then be transplanted. Here are some issues to note during transplantation:
One, soil selection. The correct choice of soil for planting Begonia directly affects its later growth and the ease of maintenance. Begonia prefers a sandy loam soil that is loose, rich in nutrients, has good drainage, and is slightly acidic. Generally, you can use decomposed leaf soil mixed with about 40% coarse river sand for planting, which works well. Of course, other substrates like peat soil and perlite can also be used, mixed in a ratio of 6:4, which is suitable for planting Begonia.
Two, prevent root damage. During the transplantation of Begonia, try to minimize root damage and do not remove all the original cutting matrix for bare-root planting. Severe root damage can directly affect its later growth and may cause root rot, leading to transplantation failure.
Three, water thoroughly. After Begonia is transplanted, it should be watered thoroughly to make the roots adhere to the new soil as much as possible, allowing it to settle in and grow new roots to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
Begonia
Issues to note in the daily management of Begonia:
One, reasonable lighting is key to keeping Begonia healthy. Begonia likes light but avoids strong light. Excessive lighting can cause the leaves to lose their green color, turn white and yellow, lose their luster, and in severe cases, lead to leaf rot and even plant death. It's best not to expose Begonia to direct sunlight all year round; bright scattered light is enough to meet its growth needs. It can generally be placed on a north-facing balcony or window sill for care, or in a bright room.
Two, moist air will make Begonia fresher and greener. Begonia prefers a humid environment, but its roots are not tolerant to waterlogging. Watering Begonia should not be too frequent, usually waiting for the potting soil to dry out before watering. However, in daily maintenance, it is necessary to frequently spray water on the plant and its surrounding environment to increase humidity, especially in summer and winter when there is heating indoors.
Three, sufficient nutrients will make Begonia bloom continuously. Begonia has a long blooming period and a large number of flowers, and sufficient nutrients are essential for its flowering. At least once a month, apply a multi-element compound fertilizer to the plant, with obvious results when applied to the roots. Note that the fertilizer concentration should not be too high. Also, apply a high-phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer at least two to three times a month to promote bud differentiation. Phosphate potassium can be applied as a 0.1% solution, both for root and foliar feeding for better results.
Begonia
In summary: The survival rate of Begonia cutting propagation is very high, and it can be done at any time when the ambient temperature is above 5℃. During the propagation process, it is necessary to disinfect the matrix and branches to prevent bacterial infection and avoid propagation failure. In daily maintenance, the lighting and humidity of the environment are quite important. Avoid direct sunlight and maintain a relatively high humidity throughout the year.
The above are personal views and opinions. Any inappropriate or insufficient points are open to criticism and correction. I hope it helps you and wish you happiness! I am Da Wang, who enjoys gardening. If you find this useful, please give it a thumbs up and follow me for more content.
The above is a related explanation of how to propagate Begonia flowers for faster rooting and the techniques for cutting Begonia, hoping to bring a little help to your life!