In the Garden: How to successfully grow rex begonias with beautiful foliage

There are more than 1,300 species in the begonia plant family. Many have showy flowers; several are popular as outdoor garden plants.

Rex begonias, however, are famous only for their foliage. Rex begonias originated in the forests of northern India. Today, there are many beautiful cultivars, making rex begonias popular as an indoor houseplant.

Growing conditions

The key to success is to add humidity; these plants are considered tropical and do not grow well in a dry house environment. Place containers on a tray of gravel or pebbles, where water can collect, evaporate and raise the air-moisture level. Avoid overwatering; only water when the soil is dry to the touch. Indirect light is best; a location with morning sunlight or filtered sunlight is good. Avoid placing plants near heat sources or near drafts.

Maintenance

Fertilize with a water-soluble fertilizer at half strength every 4 to 6 weeks. Remove dead leaves and any spent blooms and keep the planting mix surface free of debris. If leaf tips turn brown, chances are the humidity level is too low. When you water, avoid getting water on the foliage.

The difficulty with these houseplants is to pick only one! Words cannot describe the different foliage colors and textures. 

If you want more information about these houseplant beauties, visit the American Begonia Society's website at www.begonias.org. Find more gardening information on our website, cceoneida.com, clicking on Home & Garden on the menu or call us at 315-736-3394, ext. 100. Be sure to like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/cceoneida) and check out our YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/user/cceoneida) for great gardening talks.

Rosanne Loparco, Master Gardener Volunteer, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County.