Begonias are beautiful flowering plants that come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. With their showy blooms and attractive foliage, it’s no wonder they are so popular. However, begonias do require proper care, especially when it comes to watering. Learning how much water your begonia needs and how to water it properly is key to helping it thrive.
How Often Should You Water Begonias?
The watering frequency for begonias can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:
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Type of begonia – Wax begonias need more frequent watering than rhizomatous or tuberous begonias.
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Time of year – During the active growing season in spring and summer, begonias need more frequent watering than in fall and winter when they are dormant.
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Pot size – Begonias in smaller pots will need more frequent watering than those in larger pots,
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Environment – Begonias in hot, dry, or windy environments will need more water. Those in cool or humid areas may need less frequent watering.
As a general guideline, most begonias should be watered when the top inch of soil becomes dry. During the growing season, this is usually every 5-7 days. In the winter, you can water every 2-3 weeks. However, you should always assess soil moisture and water based on your specific conditions.
It’s better to underwater than overwater begonias. Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings encourages stronger root growth. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
How to Properly Water Begonias
When watering begonias, follow these tips:
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Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. This ensures the entire root zone is hydrated.
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Avoid getting water on the leaves and flowers which can promote disease, Water at the base of the plant
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In the morning is ideal so the foliage has time to dry out during the day
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Use room temperature water, as cold water can shock the roots.
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Allow excess water to drain fully from the saucer or pot. Don’t allow the pot to sit in water.
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Water houseplants with distilled or rain water to avoid buildup of minerals that can burn the roots.
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Outdoor container plants can be watered with a garden hose on a gentle setting. Avoid harsh blasts of water.
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For begonias in the garden, soaker hoses or drip irrigation works wonderfully to deeply saturate the soil.
How Much Water Do Begonias Need?
When it comes to exactly how much water to give your begonia, there are a few factors to consider:
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Container size – The amount of water needed is directly related to the size of the pot. For example, a 4 inch pot needs about 1/4 cup of water. An 8 inch pot needs about 1 cup of water.
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Plant size – Larger, mature plants will need more water than smaller, younger ones.
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Climate – Begonias in hot, dry climates need more frequent watering with more total water. Cool or humid climates require less.
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Soil type – Well-draining soil mixes require more frequent watering but less total water. Dense soils that retain moisture require less frequent watering.
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Time of year – During active growth begonias need about 25-50% more water than during dormancy.
To determine when to water, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil. If the top 1-2 inches is dry, it’s time to water. As you gain experience caring for begonias, you’ll get a feel for when they need water.
The best way to determine exactly how much water your specific begonia needs is to water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then weigh or measure the water. You’ll quickly learn how much is needed to fully saturate the soil for that plant in its pot size.
For example, if a 6 inch begonia in an 8 inch pot needs 1 cup of water to saturate the soil and drain, you’ll know it needs about 1 cup every 5-7 days during the growing season when the top inch of soil dries out. In the winter, it may only need 1 cup every 2-3 weeks.
Signs Your Begonia Needs Water
The easiest way to know your begonia needs water is to check the soil moisture. But begonias will also show visible signs of thirst including:
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Drooping or wilting – The stems and leaves go limp and start to droop down. This is one of the first signs of underwatering.
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Leaves curling inward – The leaves will tightly curl inward and down. This helps the plant retain moisture.
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Dull, lackluster foliage – When begonias need water, the leaves lose their shine and vibrant color.
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Slowed growth – Lack of water stunts growth. You may notice less new foliage and blooms.
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Leaf drop – Extremely dry soil can cause lower leaves to yellow and drop off.
If you see these signs, water your begonia thoroughly and it should perk back up within a day. Severe underwatering can lead to permanent damage, so don’t let begonias totally dry out.
Problems From Overwatering
While begonias don’t like totally dry soil, they are very prone to problems from overwatering. Signs your begonia is getting too much water include:
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Wilting or drooping – Ironically, excessive watering can cause the same drooping appearance as underwatering.
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Leaf spotting or yellowing – Lower leaves develop brown spots or turn yellow and translucent from rotting.
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Root rot – Roots turn brown or black from fungal infections that thrive in wet soil. This can kill the plant.
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Moldy soil – Excess moisture encourages mold growth on the surface of the soil.
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Slow growth – Too much water limits root function so plants fail to grow properly.
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Leaf drop – As roots die from rot, the plant loses its ability to supply water to the leaves, causing leaf loss.
If you suspect overwatering, immediately check the roots. Cut back on watering frequency and amount. Don’t water again until the soil is thoroughly dry. Repotting may be required to refresh overly wet soil.
Best Potting Mix for Begonias
The potting mix used for begonias is vital to avoid overwatering. A quality potting mix should:
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Provide excellent drainage to prevent wet roots. Incorporate perlite, bark chips, or lava rock.
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Have exceptional aeration from coarse materials like perlite or vermiculite.
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Hold some moisture between waterings. Peat moss or coco coir work well.
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Supply nutrients if not using fertilizer. Compost or worm castings are great organic options.
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Have a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.5, ideal for begonias.
A basic begonia potting mix can be made by mixing equal parts peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and compost or bark chips. Or simply use a high-quality commercial potting soil and add extra perlite if needed for drainage.
Watering Begonias Indoors vs. Outdoors
Caring for indoor begonias has a few key differences when it comes to watering compared to outdoor culture:
Indoors
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Allow soil to dry out a bit more between waterings since humidity is lower.
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Distilled or purified water is best to prevent mineral deposits.
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Check soil moisture daily and water when the top 1-2 inches becomes dry.
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Water until it drains from the bottom into the saucer, then discard excess.
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Keep away from drafts and heating vents which accelerate soil drying.
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Increase humidity with pebble trays or humidifiers.
Outdoors
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Can tolerate more frequent watering as rainfall adds moisture.
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Tap water or garden hose is fine for use.
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Check soil every 2-3 days, watering when top inch is dry.
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Ensure container plants have drainage holes to prevent wet soil.
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Outdoor humidity means less need for additional moisture.
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Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses for convenient garden watering.
Whether you grow begonias indoors or out, following the proper watering schedule and amount is essential. Monitor soil moisture, humidity, drainage, and the plant’s appearance to tweak your watering routine. With a little practice, you’ll have healthy, thriving begonias that will brighten any space with gorgeous blooms through optimal hydration.
How to fertilize Begonia
Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth.
By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil it’s likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway.
To replenish this plants nutrients, repot your Begonia after it doubles in size or once a year—whichever comes first.
Begonia prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
Begonia may have difficulty thriving and will drop leaves without ample sunlight. Place it less than 3 feet from a window to maximize the potential for growth. Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement in your home .
Greg does not have confirmed data on this plant’s toxicity. If you, a family member, or a pet consumes plant material of unknown toxicity, it’s always best to consult a medical professional.
If you or someone else ingested this plant, call Poison Control at US (800) 222-1222. If a pet consumed this plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA at US (888) 426-4435.
Begonia doesn’t require additional humidity. Plants absorb most water through their root system rather than their leaves, so the best way to provide humidity for your plants is through watering the soil.
Begonia does best in well-draining soil. A good soil will contain lots of organic matter such as coco coir as well as perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick!
Begonia should be repotted after it doubles in size or once a year, whichever comes first. Fresh potting soil has all the nutrients your plant needs, so as long as it’s refreshed yearly, you shouldn’t need to use fertilizer. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not fertilizer!
Begonia does not have a typical pattern of dormancy. If you notice their growth slowing down substantially, double check that they are getting enough sunlight and water to thrive!
Begonia is native to Tropics and Subtropics worldwide.
When troubleshooting a sad-looking houseplant, start by checking for signs of distress in its leaves, such as yellowing, browning, or drooping, which can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.
Inspect the soil moisture; too dry or too wet soil can cause problems.
Ensure the plant is getting the right amount of light, as too much or too little can stress it.
Finally, consider environmental factors like temperature and humidity, and adjust care routines accordingly to revive your plant.
Finding light for Begonia in your home
Begonia may have difficulty thriving, and will drop leaves , without ample sunlight.
Place it less than 3 feet from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement of Begonia in your home .
Indoor Begonia Care Guide // Garden Answer
FAQ
Do begonias like full sun or shade?
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Most begonias prefer shade or partial shade:Many varieties, like tuberous and Rex begonias, do best in dappled or partial shade, avoiding direct, harsh sunlight that can scorch their leaves.
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Some varieties tolerate sun:Certain types, like wax begonias and Dragon Wing begonias, can handle full sun or part-sun conditions.
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Sunlight requirements vary by species:Some begonias, like those with darker foliage, can tolerate more light than those with green leaves.
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Morning sun is ideal:If you’re planting begonias in a sunny area, morning sun is generally better than afternoon sun, as the afternoon sun can be too intense.
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Consider your climate:In warmer climates, it’s crucial to protect begonias from the hottest afternoon sun to prevent leaf scald.
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Tuberous begonias:These are known for their large, showy flowers and are ideal for hanging baskets, containers, and shaded garden beds, but they require well-drained soil and regular watering.
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Wax begonias:These are a good choice for sunny beds and containers, known for their prolific, season-long color.
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Dragon Wing begonias:These thrive in sun and part-sun, with a spreading, arching habit, making them a good choice for hanging baskets and container arrangements.
Can you over water begonias?
The Importance of Watering Begonias Correctly
Overwatering is a common issue that can cause root rot, yellowing leaves, and even plant death. Begonias are native to tropical and subtropical climates, which means they’re used to a certain level of moisture—but not too much.
How often should I water begonias in hanging baskets?
- To enjoy the biggest, most colourful displays, feed them on a weekly basis with a high-potassium fertiliser, such as tomato fertiliser.
- Begonias often flower right up until the first frosts.
Do begonias need to be watered?
Begonia watering for pot-based plants relies on a degree of daily inspection. Gardeners should carefully monitor potted begonia plants for signs of stress or other indicators that water is needed, making certain to meet their needs before plants begin to droop or wilt.
How do you care for a Begonia plant?
In a pot with good drainage, wait to water the begonia until the top portion of the soil is dry and be wary of overwatering. Having a pot with good drainage will allow excess water to drain from the soil and prevent the plant from sitting in stagnant water. Like other indoor plants, begonias enter a dormancy period in the colder months.
How do you water a Begonia plant?
If you begonias are planted in the ground, you’ll have to stick with top watering. If you’re unfamiliar with bottom watering, here’s what to do: Step 1: Fill a tub or basin with 2 – 4 inches of cool water. The water should cover the bottom of the pot without submerging the entire pot.
How often should you water begonias?
Watering them properly is a key part of begonia care, as they can easily dry out and wilt. Keeping your begonia healthy through regular watering is essential to keep them blooming, but overwatering can pose a threat as well. If you want to learn how often to water begonias then this guide is for you.
Can you mist a Begonia plant?
But, when you mist your Begonia plant, make sure that you do not use tap water. This is because in some areas, tap water has high alkaline levels, and it might cause your plant to drop leaves eventually. Instead of using tap water, you should use distilled water that is free of minerals.
How do you know if a begonia is wilting?
Watch plants for wilt signals it’s time to water. The plant itself will display signals that it’s thirsty and needs a drink. Watch for these signs with your begonias: Don’t wait until severe wilting occurs to water, as it stresses the plant. Water at first indications of dryness.