Begonias are one of the most popular flowering plants. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a perfect addition to any garden. Begonias can also be grown indoors, making them a great option for gardeners who have limited space. One question that many begonia growers have is how to fertilize begonias effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss the best ways to fertilize begonias so that you can get the most out of your plants!
What are begonias and what does it need to grow best?
Begonias are a genus of flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae. There are about 1000 species of begonias, most of which are tropical or subtropical. They grow best in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
They do not tolerate frost and need protection from cold weather. In temperate climates, begonias can be grown as annuals or houseplants.
Begonias come in a wide variety of colors including red, pink, orange, white, yellow, and green. Some varieties have variegated leaves with streaks or patches of different colors. They can be used as bedding plants, container plants, or hanging baskets.
Fertilizing begonias is necessary to keep them healthy and looking their best. The type of fertilizer you use and how often you fertilize depends on the type of begonia you have, where you live, and what time of year it is.
What are the advantages of fertilizing begonias?
Fertilizing begonias can help them grow bigger and healthier, and it can also improve their blooming. Fertilizer will also help the plants resist pests and diseases. Begonias that are well-fed typically have more vigor, better foliage color, and stronger stems. They may also bloom longer than those that are not fertilized.
Which NPK ratio choose for begonias?
When it comes to fertilizing begonias, there are different NPK ratios you can choose from. The most common one is a 10-10-10 ratio, which means the fertilizer has 10% nitrogen (N), 10% phosphorus (P), and 10% potassium (K). However, if your begonia is in bloom, you may want to use a 10-30-20 ratio instead, as this will provide more of the nutrients they need to produce blooms. When in doubt, ask your local garden center for advice on which NPK ratio is best for your type of begonia.
When to fertilize begonias?
The best time to fertilize begonias is when they are actively growing, which is typically in the spring and summer. You should fertilize begonias at least once a month. However, you can also fertilize them in the fall if you are going to be overwintering them indoors. This will give them the nutrients they need to produce new flowers.
How to fertilize begonias?
There are a few ways to fertilize begonias, including top dressing, foliar feeding, and soil drenching. Topdressing is when you apply the fertilizer directly to the plants’ leaves, foliar feeding is when you mix the fertilizer with water and spray it on the leaves, and soil drenching is when you pour the fertilizer into the soil around the plants.
If you’re using a liquid fertilizer for begonias, start by mixing it according to the instructions on the package. Then, use a watering can with a fine rose to apply it to the plants. You can also use a garden sprayer to foliar feed your begonias.
If you’re using solid or slow-release fertilizer, start by mixing it into the top inch of soil around the plants. You can do this with a trowel, cultivator, or your hands. Once the fertilizer is mixed in, water the plants well.