Tiger Paws Begonia
Begonia
Begonia
Light Details
Keep in a bright room with lots of ambient light. Best placement is near an east window or a few feet back from a south/west window behind a sheer curtain. Rotate every 1 to 2 weeks for even growth and avoid harsh midday sun unless the plant is known to take more light.
Watering Details
Water when the top inch dries but do not let the root ball go bone dry for long. Begonias hate soggy soil and stagnant air. Check the potting mix before watering. In most homes this means watering when the top 1 to 2 inches feel dry, then watering thoroughly until excess drains out. Empty cachepots and saucers so roots are not left sitting in water.
Humidity Details
Aim for 60%+ humidity if possible. A humidifier, cabinet, or grouping with other plants helps more than occasional misting. Keep the plant away from heater vents and cold drafts.
Soil Details
Use a moisture-retentive but airy mix built around coco coir or peat with added perlite. The goal is even moisture without turning dense or muddy.
Temperature
Keep at 65 to 80°F with good airflow.
Feeding Details
Feed lightly every 2 to 4 weeks in spring and summer and prioritize airflow around the foliage.
Grooming / Training
Remove spent leaves promptly and pinch leggy stems to keep plants bushy.
Repotting
Repot when rootbound, usually every 1 to 2 years, using a pot only slightly larger.
Common Issues
Powdery mildew, mushy stems, or leaf spotting can happen if foliage stays wet and air is poor. Crispy edges can mean dry air or missed watering.
Seasonal Notes
Most grow actively in warmth and need less water in winter.
What Not To Do
Do not crowd them into dark, airless spaces.
Safety Details
Toxic to Pets/Humans. Keep out of reach of pets. Avoid ingestion and wash hands after handling if sap or tissue is irritating.
Image/source: Photo by Peng Jingyi via Wikimedia Commons; CC BY-SA 3.0.