Begonia is a very beautiful flower, with many different varieties. Each variety has its own unique colors and forms for people to admire. But how do you choose the variety that is most suitable for you? This article will introduce you to different varieties of begonias and their characteristics, helping you create a beautiful courtyard.
Understanding the Basics—What is Begonia?
Begonia, also known as "Peach Blossom Island," "Snow Willow Bank," "Osmanthus Island," "Golden Begonia," etc., belongs to the genus Begonia in the Rosaceae family and is one of the traditional garden plants in China. When begonias bloom, their branches are covered with a profusion of colorful flowers, which is intoxicating.
Common Begonia Varieties—Golden Phoenix, Full House Red, Colorful, Jade Hairpin, etc.
Golden Phoenix Begonia has fiery flower colors and delicate petals, making it one of the most popular varieties in gardens; Full House Red Begonia has large and abundant flowers with bright colors, symbolizing family happiness and well-being; Colorful Begonia has petals in various colors, representing a riot of color; Jade Hairpin Begonia has beautiful flower colors and a shape similar to a peony, making it a good choice for a courtyard.
Understanding Variety Characteristics—Golden Phoenix Begonia
Golden Phoenix Begonia is an early spring blooming variety, with flower colors mainly red and pink. The flowers are delicate, and the crown is small, often pruned into a full, round shape, which is beautiful.
Understanding Variety Characteristics—Full House Red Begonia
Full House Red Begonia is a mid-to-early spring blooming variety, with flower colors mainly dark red. The flowers are large, symbolizing family happiness and well-being.
Understanding Variety Characteristics—Colorful Begonia
Colorful Begonia is a spring blooming variety with diverse flower colors, including white, red, yellow, pink, etc. Its tree posture is tall and straight, making it a star plant in the courtyard.
Understanding Variety Characteristics—Jade Hairpin Begonia
Jade Hairpin Begonia is a spring blooming variety with pink and white flower colors. The petals are elegant, and the shape is similar to a peony, making it very beautiful.
Begonia Varieties Suitable for Courtyard Planting
Golden Phoenix Begonia and Full House Red Begonia are suitable for planting in courtyards. They can be planted as single specimens or in combination with other plants to create a strong spring atmosphere.
Begonia Varieties Suitable for Potting
Colorful Begonia and Jade Hairpin Begonia are suitable for potting. They can not only be used as decorative elements in the courtyard but also placed indoors to add a touch of vitality and energy to the home.
How to Plant Begonias?
Begonias have high requirements for soil. Generally, fertile, well-drained loam is the best. When planting, pay attention to the depth and do not plant too deep. During the growing period, water in time and fertilize evenly.
How to Care for Begonias?
The flowering period of begonias is short. If you want them to bloom longer, you need to remove withered and yellow leaves in time. Water moderately, keep the soil moist, and fertilize moderately. Do not over-fertilize to avoid damaging the begonias.
How to Prune Begonias?
Proper pruning can make begonias more beautiful and their shape more tidy. When pruning, leave enough branches and do not cut them too short. Regular pruning can also promote the growth of new buds and flowering.
How to Prevent and Control Begonia Pests and Diseases?
Common begonia pests and diseases include powdery mildew, black spot, aphids, etc., which can be prevented and treated by regularly spraying pesticides. You can also regularly spray water on begonias to increase their resistance.
The Significance of Begonia in Chinese Culture
Begonia is not only a beautiful flower but also has rich cultural connotations. In Chinese culture, begonia symbolizes beauty, nobility, and pure affection.
The Image of Begonia in Poetry
Many poets have taken begonias as the subject of their poetry, such as Du Mu's "Fù dé gǔ yuán cǎo sòng bié" (Ode to the Ancient Grass on the Plain) from the Tang Dynasty and Su Shi's "Chì bì huái gǔ" (Reflections on the Red Cliffs) from the Song Dynasty. In these poems, begonias are depicted as very delicate and beautiful.
Begonia has many different varieties, each with its own unique charm. Choosing a begonia variety suitable for your courtyard can make it more beautiful. In the process of planting, caring, pruning, and preventing and controlling pests and diseases, some details need to be paid attention to. Begonia is not only a flower but also has a deep cultural connotation and is an indispensable part of Chinese culture.