How does Begonia propagate offspring?
Today, the editor will explain how Begonia propagates offspring and the green plant flower planting tips about Begonia care. Next, the editor will provide you with detailed answers.
Begonia is a magical plant with many varieties. In addition to ornamental flower varieties like Rieger Begonia, Fibrous-rooted Begonia, and Tuberous Begonia, there are also some ornamental leaf varieties, such as the common Bathyphyllum Begonia. Apart from sowing and cutting, you can also use leaf cutting to propagate Begonias.
Many people find it hard to believe that Begonia can be propagated with a single leaf. How do the leaves take root and sprout?
Begonia leaves have strong regeneration ability. A single leaf cut into many pieces can still regenerate new buds, with a propagation power comparable to that of落地生根 (a plant that can root when its parts touch the ground).
Of course, to propagate Begonia with leaf cuttings, you need to master certain skills. It's not as simple as just burying them in the soil.
You need to prepare a sharp blade and rooting powder, and some loose sandy soil that has been sterilized.
It's best to use granular soil for Begonia leaf cutting propagation to ensure good ventilation, drainage, and moderate water retention. Pure perlite or pure vermiculite is the most suitable, as it ensures there are no pathogens in the soil, providing a better environment for the leaves to sprout new roots.
Firstly, select a healthy Begonia plant, preferably one without diseases or pests, strong in growth, and that has bloomed. Also, pay attention to selecting leaves from the right parts, avoiding the too tender top leaves or the too old bottom leaves. It's best to choose some thick and plump leaves near the bottom.
Begonia leaves can be cut along with the petiole, preferably with a disinfected sharp blade. The petiole can be removed by half, and then the leaves are spread flat on perlite and vermiculite.
How does Begonia propagate offspring?
You can also cut the leaves into several pieces, ensuring each small leaf has plenty of veins. Begonia can be propagated with leaf cuttings because its veins can sprout new buds. Without veins, it cannot regenerate roots or sprout.
The cut leaves can be placed in a well-ventilated shaded area for about 30 minutes to let the wound dry before spreading them on the soil surface.
The perlite and vermiculite should be sprayed with water to moisten them. Choose a shallow tray with plenty of drainage holes at the bottom, then place the leaves on the perlite and put them in a well-ventilated and lighted area. In the morning, a bit of scattered light is fine, but avoid direct sunlight.
Then you can cover the box with a layer of plastic film, puncturing a few small holes, or opening it for two to three hours a day. During the leaf propagation period of Begonia, be sure to spray water regularly to keep the soil moist, and also maintain air humidity and proper ventilation.
Keep the cultivation temperature between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Do not fertilize during the training period. Maintain this environment, and after about two to three weeks, the seedlings will slowly sprout some small buds, which will grow slowly. You must be patient, take good care of them, maintain a suitable environment, and occasionally spray some fungicides to prevent fungal diseases and avoid the decay of new buds.
After a period of time, the seedlings will gradually sprout from the Begonia leaves. Isn't it amazing?
The above introduction by the Green Plant Enthusiast website about how Begonia propagates offspring and the complete care tips for Begonia can provide you with help. Don't forget to visit the Green Plant Enthusiast website more often for more experience and knowledge!