The Ultimate Guide to Beefsteak Begonia – Care, Planting, Soil & Growing
Almost identical to a chunk of beef, the Begonia plant carries beef in its name for it. Being a well-known ornamental, it goes well as an indoor green decoy. The Beefsteak Begonia is a hybrid outcome from the cross-pollination of two begonia species in Germany.
Its rounded leaves are crystal clear and deep green. Besides, it also imparts dark red color often. No doubt, this plant is an aesthetic on its own. Moreover, the flowers of the begonia plant are another insightful addition.
As the hype of the begonia is a fact, so might be searching for it too. Do you want to learn about the charming steak-similar plant? You have hit it right. We have an in-depth and comprehensive guide on Beefsteak Begonia.
This article will explore the cultivation, growing, repotting tenure, and many more about this plant. Keep reading to find more.
Growing Tips and Care
Likewise, other houseplants, Begonia Erythrophyla, require some maintenance. On that account, primary care and concern are necessary for the growth of plants. Furthermore, it thrives faster in the nick of time. Here are some caring tips mentioned next.
- Humidity level: This plant grows well in a damp environment. A humidity level up to 50% is best for the healthy development of begonia.
- Soil: High-quality soil is another contributing factor to mass plant growth. Given that, acidified and well-draining soil will revive the quantity and quality of begonia.
- Water supply: When it comes to watering the plant, you need to be cautious. Constantly water it when the soil is arid. Avoid waterlogging; otherwise, it will deteriorate.
- Temperature: A 60–80-degree temperature range will alleviate the plant growth in no time. Meanwhile, frigid, and harsh weather will lead to wither or wilt. Thus, keep the container within doors no matter what.
- Fertilizer: in the growing season you should add mineral fertilizers. Because it will enhance the sprouting of young plants, dilute the fertilizer before use. Apply the fertilizer twice a week or more.
Propagation and Repotting
Among various methods of propagation, the effective and instant ones are.
- Stem cutting
- Leaf-cutting
- Water propagation
- Root ball division
From the given ones, the stem cutting method is the easiest one. To do so, cut a five or 7-inch stem portion. Now place it in the freshwater. After a couple of days, the roots will grow gradually.
Regarding repotting, the ideal time is in the spring or early summer season. Thus, remove the begonia plant from the pre-existing container then implant it into a large one. Remember to put it a few inches above the deep soil enough for uplifting. Lastly, cover the roots with the potting soil and water the plant.
Lighting For Your Beefsteak Begonia
Your begonia plant is likely to sprout well in indirect and bright light as direct sunlight may lead to severe damage. Always keep it indoors because outdoors is not favorable for its healthy development.
Especially during the summer season, Beefsteak Begonia requires a lot of caring and safekeeping. It would be best to keep it somewhere at a shady and wholly covered place. Or else it will wilt in the scorching direct light.
If you want your begonia plantlet to grow full, put it indoors with optimum room temperature. Moreover, whether it’s incorrect lighting or too much shade, both are not suitable.
Beefsteak Begonia Soil & Planting
The soil mixture for the begonia hybrid should be top-grade for high-performance growth. Usually, the best soil must be:
- Highly porous
- Draining
- Acidic in nature
- Packed with nutrient minerals
- Moderately dank
- Includes organic fertilizer, sand, and coconut fiber
In short, for better results, you can add charcoal or dried leaves in the soil moisture too. The purer is the soil, the more it will benefit the growing tenure. Here the only precaution is not to overwater the soil because it won’t be helpful at all.
When planting the begonia, choose a sizable container or pot. Secondly, the most important is the location where you place it. Put it towards the northern side rather than the east or west side.
To keep the begonia reinvigorated, filling the container bottom with manure, pebbles, and potting mix is preferable. Since it is a perennial plant, you won’t need to replant it more often.
Conclusion
Concluding the whole Beefsteak Begonia discussion, it is worthwhile to cater this plant for indoor decor. You will find it a wholesome piece of greenery busted with beautiful pinkish flowers and translucent leaflets. Hence, constant care and optimal growing conditions will aggravate the plant growth. You can now plant, replant or propagate the begonia hybrid yourself.
