How to Divide Wax Begonias

Wax begonias are a long-blooming annual. They tolerate a wide range of climates including hot, humid environments. They will grow in sun or shade, which makes them versatile and popular. One thing they will not tolerate is freezing. But the good news is, according to Clemson University, you can grow wax begonias indoors as houseplants during winter. If you have wax begonias planted in the ground, you can dig them up in the fall, divide them and keep them inside. That way, they will be ready to replant in the spring, and you will not have to spend a bunch of money purchasing new plants.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Plant pots
• Pitch fork
• Knife
• Rooting hormone
• Potting soil
• Shovel

1. Pink wax begonias

   Tap or squeeze your mother plant’s pot to help release the roots. Tip the pot sideways and slide your wax begonias out.

2. Dig up your wax begonias with a pitch fork if they are planted in the ground. Be careful to get underneath the roots. Fill some plant pots with a rich, aerated potting soil.
3. Shake any excess soil from the roots so you can better examine the growth. Use a sharp knife to cut your wax begonias apart and separate the roots. Divide so that each new wax begonia plant gets some of the main stem and, if possible, some roots.
4. Dab a little rooting hormone on the fresh cut. Place your new divisions into your plant pots.
5. Cover the roots with soil, but not the stems. Press the soil down gently and water.

Tips & Warnings

• Spots on the leaves are a symptom of overcrowding.

• If overwintering wax begonias, make sure they get plenty of natural light. You may need to supplement natural light with grow lights. If they die back some, they should still be able to bounce back in the spring.