Begonia is a common flowering plant, whose beautiful flowers and lush tree-like posture are loved by people. However, for many who have grown begonias, how to water them scientifically is a rather tricky problem. This article will introduce watering techniques for four-season begonias, hoping to help everyone better manage begonia plants so they can grow healthily and vigorously.
Spring Watering Techniques
Spring is the peak growing season for begonias and also their blooming period. At this time, watering should be kept moderate, neither too much nor too little. Each watering should control the amount of water to avoid waterlogging, which may cause root rot. Meanwhile, spring weather changes greatly, so it's necessary to pay attention to temperature and humidity changes and adjust watering frequency accordingly.
Summer Watering Techniques
Summer is the peak growth period for begonias, requiring increased watering. However, due to high summer temperatures, water evaporates easily, so watering frequency needs to be increased. But don't overdo it; each watering should still remain moderate to avoid causing root hypoxia.
Autumn Watering Techniques
Autumn is the leaf-falling period for begonias, requiring appropriately reduced watering frequency to prevent excessive watering from causing root rot. Additionally, pay attention to weather changes and adjust water volume and frequency in a timely manner to avoid leaf wilting.
Winter Watering Techniques
Winter is when begonias enter dormancy, requiring appropriate reduction in both water volume and frequency, keeping the soil moist is sufficient. Also, pay attention to preventing cold damage during freezing weather and avoid excessive watering that could lead to ground icing.
Best Time for Watering
The best time to water begonias is in the morning or evening, when temperatures are lower and water doesn't evaporate easily. At the same time, try to avoid watering during midday or afternoon when sunlight is intense, as this could harm the begonias.
How to Determine if Watering is Needed
To determine if begonias need watering, check soil moisture and leaf condition. If the soil surface looks dry, you can insert your finger into the middle of the soil to feel its moisture level. Leaf condition can also serve as a reference for watering; if leaves appear wilted, watering is needed.
Watering Methods
Watering methods should avoid strong water flow to prevent washing away nutrients from the soil. You can use a sprayer for spraying or slowly pour water into the soil using a bucket.
Taboos
Do not use ice water for watering during hot summer days or high temperatures, as this can cause cold damage to begonias. Also, do not overwater to avoid root rot.
Amount of Water
The amount of water per watering should be determined based on the begonia's growth status and climatic conditions. Generally, the amount should be enough to moisten the entire root area, but not too much to avoid waterlogging.
Drain Excess Water from Pot Bottom Before Watering
Before watering, drain any excess water from the pot bottom to avoid root rot caused by waterlogging.
Water Quality
Pay attention to water quality; tap water or rainwater is preferred. If tap water must be used, let it sit for a while before use to remove harmful substances like chlorine.
Soil Moisture Retention
Begonias are sensitive to soil moisture, so maintaining proper soil moisture is important. After watering, cover the soil surface with mulch such as hemp rope or sawdust to retain moisture.
Adjusting Watering Frequency
The watering frequency for begonias should be adjusted according to their growth status and seasonal changes. If you notice yellowing or wilting leaves, consider increasing water volume and frequency.
Watering and Fertilizer Coordination
Begonia growth requires nutrient support, so you can add some fertilizer when watering. However, be careful not to overdo it to avoid over-fertilization.
Begonia is a relatively easy-to-care-for flowering plant, but scientific watering is crucial. Through the watering techniques introduced in this article, everyone can better manage begonia plants for healthy and vigorous growth.