How to cultivate Begonia masoniana (Iron Cross Begonia) in a pot
The editor provides an explanation on how to cultivate Begonia masoniana potted plants and a detailed introduction to the care and management methods for the Iron Cross Begonia, which will certainly be of help to you. Let's learn about it together!
Commonly referred to as Iron Cross Begonia, its formal Chinese name is Begonia masoniana (Scientific name: Begonia masoniana). It is a very unique ornamental plant with leaves, and if you prefer Begonia varieties with large leaves and a more impressive appearance, you might want to consider Begonia masoniana.
Begonia masoniana can occasionally produce small pink flowers, which are quite vibrant. However, compared to its blooms, its particularly large dark green leaves are more striking.
The leaves of Begonia masoniana have a fluffy texture that makes them look untouchable. Moreover, this plant is relatively affordable and suitable for beginners, with a low level of care required.
1. Sunlight
Begonia masoniana requires minimal sunlight, with just two to three hours of scattered light per day being sufficient for normal growth. If there is no light at all, simply place a lamp nearby or use a specialized plant light to meet its growth needs.
It is actually quite sensitive to direct strong sunlight, especially during the summer and autumn seasons when temperatures are high, and it is important to provide shade for maintenance.
How to cultivate Begonia masoniana in a pot
2. Potting Soil
To reduce the difficulty of care, use a loose, fertile, and well-draining slightly acidic sandy soil or humus soil. For example, mix common peat soil with perlite in a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1, and mix in a little slow-release fertilizer, or sprinkle some slow-release fertilizer around the soil surface.
Choose pots such as red clay pots, root control pots, or other pots with good drainage and ventilation (avoid using deep containers).
3. Temperature and Humidity
Begonia masoniana prefers a constantly warm and humid environment, with a minimum temperature of above 4 degrees Celsius being relatively safe. When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, start reducing watering. If the temperature remains above 15 degrees Celsius, it can continue to grow, with the optimal growth temperature being between 18-25 degrees Celsius.
When caring for Begonia masoniana in a pot, also pay attention to avoiding excessively dry air, especially when growing indoors. If the humidity is consistently below 40%, consider using a humidifier nearby or placing a saucer or shallow tray under the pot with some stones and water, placing the pot on the stones. This can continuously increase humidity without making the soil too moist.
4. Watering
Begonia masoniana naturally loves water, but when grown in an indoor environment, check the moisture of the potting soil before each watering. Generally, wait until the top 3 to 5 centimeters of soil are completely dry before thoroughly watering it directly into the soil.
If the soil remains constantly moist and does not dry out, it may cause root rot. During the rainy season, avoid constant exposure to rain, especially in humid conditions.
5. Fertilizer
Caring for Begonia masoniana in a pot does not require excessive and frequent fertilization, especially when grown in an indoor environment. Generally, just sprinkle a little slow-release fertilizer around the soil surface every half a year.
If it is in the peak growing season of spring and summer, with temperatures between 18-28 degrees Celsius and new leaves and buds growing, you can supplement with a low-concentration fertilizer every two to three weeks or three to four weeks, with the concentration being half of the usual.
Do not fertilize immediately after repotting or purchasing a new pot. Wait three to four weeks before fertilizing.
If the environment has good ventilation and plenty of scattered light with particularly good growth, you can supplement with a water-soluble fertilizer every one to two weeks.
The above introduction (Green Plant Enthusiast Network) on how to cultivate Begonia masoniana potted plants and detailed care and management methods for the Iron Cross Begonia is hoped to be of help to green plant enthusiasts!