Begonia Rex | How to care for the Rex Begonia

The Begonia Rex, known for its vibrant foliage and intricate patterns, is a captivating addition to any indoor garden. Ideal for gifting or adding a touch of elegance to your space, this plant demands specific care to maintain its stunning appearance.

Light and Placement: Rex Begonias thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. During the less sunny months, consider using LED grow lights to fulfill their light requirements​​.

Soil and Potting: Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix with a pH of 5.7 to 6.4. When potting, choose a shallow container to accommodate the plant's growth habit and ensure it has optimal drainage to prevent waterlogging​​.

Watering and Humidity: Water the Begonia Rex when the top inch of soil dries out, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. They prefer a humidity level around 50% to 70%. Instead of misting, which can lead to leaf problems, use a pebble tray or a humidifier to maintain the required humidity. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure proper drainage​​​​.

Temperature: Keep the plant in a comfortable temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, avoiding drastic temperature changes to prevent stress​​.

Feeding: Feed your Begonia Rex with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season, following instructions to avoid overfeeding​​.

Pruning and Maintenance: Regularly prune the plant to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and encourage fuller growth. This will keep your Begonia Rex looking its best and prevent disease​​.

Propagation: Propagate Rex Begonias using leaf cuttings or by dividing the rhizomes. This can be an easy way to create new plants from your existing one. Make sure to use clean tools and provide the right conditions for the new plants to thrive​​​​.

Pests and Diseases: Watch out for common pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plant and treat any infestations early with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, be vigilant about fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, and maintain good air circulation around your plants to prevent these issues​​​​.

By following these care guidelines, your Rex Begonia will continue to provide breathtaking beauty to your home or as a thoughtful gift through GiftTree NZ or any other gifting service. With their lush, decorative leaves and easy-care nature, they make a perfect indoor plant for enthusiasts and beginners alike.