Begonias are slow growers that take several months to mature into flowering plants.
Keep wax begonias away from pets because all begonias are toxic if ingested, especially the roots.
Can You Grow Wax Begonias Inside?
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Wax begonias are easy plants to grow indoors, and they offer pretty indoor color during their flowering season.
This species reacts poorly to drought or extreme cold.
Moderately rich, well-drained soil like a standard potting mix will allow these plants to thrive with little care.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
When growing them indoors as potted plants, give wax begonias as much bright light as possible.
East-, west-, or south-facing windows are best, as these exposures provide sufficient light.
Temperature and Humidity
Wax begonias like average to warm temperatures.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
During the winter, move your plant as needed to ensure it stays in warmer rooms.
Watering
Indoor wax begonias should be watered when the soil dries through the first 1/2 inch.
Established plants require less moisture and can go a long time between waterings.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
When watering, verify it’s thorough, and then let the pot drain completely.
Do not let begonias sit in water, which encourages root rot.
Air Circulation
Wax begonias require good air circulation to grow well indoors.
Place the plant near a gentle fan to emulate an outdoor breeze.
For every third or fourth feeding, use a high-phosphorous fertilizer.
Pruning and Maintenance
Deadheading will keep your wax begonia vibrant and free of old and browning leaves.
Removing the dead flowers will help encourage more blooms.
A container with the same depth as its width will suffice.
Potting Soil and Drainage
Use a general-purpose, peat-based potting mix to grow wax begonias.
This allows your plant to receive plenty of sunlight and air circulation during the warm months.
Place the plant in a shady location for a week or two to help it get established.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Beforebringing plants inside for the winter, always check for pests.
Debug outdoor specimens to prevent infestations from spreading to your other houseplants.
Waxbegonias propagateeasily from leaf-tip cuttings, which are best to take in the spring.
Take cuttings without blooms but at least two nodes, then bury them in the moist potting soil mix.
Leave the cuttings in a warm, semi-shaded spot until new growth appears.
There are four main types of begonias, each of them with different leaves and flowers.
Wax begonias are known for their waxy leaves and consistent blooms.
Red light is best to stimulate the growth of flowers.
Common insect pests includemealybugsandthrips, which can be treated withinsecticidal soap.
List of Invasive Exotics.FLEPPC.
