Care of Angel Begonia

Angel begonias, sometimes called angel wing begonias, have glossy large leaves that are a deep green with pink or white variegation. While these houseplants are usually grown for their colorful foliage, most varieties also produce attractive flowers during the summer. Angel begonias are tender perennials that do not tolerate cold temperatures, which is why they are normally grown as indoor plants. You can also place the pots outdoors during the summer and overwinter them indoors.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Pot
• Potting soil
• Fertilizer

1. Plant angel begonias in an 8-inch diameter pot with bottom drainage holes. Use well-drained potting soil formulated for houseplants.
2. Set the pot in an area that receives morning sunlight and bright indirect light for the rest of the day. An east- or south-facing window is preferable.
3. Provide temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Temperatures as low as 60 F are suitable at night.
4. Water the begonia when the top inch of soil begins to dry. Water until moisture begins to drain from the bottom of the pot to ensure the moisture penetrates to the root zone of the soil. Empty any water that collects in the drip tray after watering.
5. Fertilize the begonia in spring and summer with a soluble houseplant food. Apply the fertilizer once a month according to the directions on the package.
6. Pinch back the begonia in spring when new growth resumes. Pinch off the top ¼ inch of each growing stem, which encourages lateral branching and lusher growth.

Tips & Warnings

• Angel begonias require repotting every two to three years or when the roots completely fill the pot. Increase the pot size by one size at each repotting.