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Begonia Rex, with its striking foliage and vibrant colors, is a popular houseplant that can add beauty to any indoor space. However, it is sensitive to cold temperatures and needs proper care during the winter months to survive and thrive.
Understanding Begonia Rex’s Winter Needs
Begonia Rex is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid conditions. When temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), the plant can suffer damage or die. Therefore, it is essential to take steps to protect your Begonia Rex during the colder months.
Preparing Your Begonia Rex for Winter
Before storing your Begonia Rex for winter, ensure it is healthy and free of pests. Repot if necessary, using well-draining soil, and water sparingly as the plant enters dormancy. Gradually reduce watering to prevent overwatering during the winter months.
Steps to Store Your Begonia Rex
- Move indoors: Bring the plant inside before the first frost, ideally when outdoor temperatures consistently stay below 50°F.
- Choose a suitable location: Place your Begonia Rex in a bright spot with indirect sunlight, away from drafts and direct heat sources.
- Adjust watering: Water sparingly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
- Maintain humidity: Increase humidity around the plant by placing it on a humidity tray or using a room humidifier.
- Temperature control: Keep the indoor temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Alternative Storage Methods
If you do not have suitable indoor space, you can store the Begonia Rex as a dormant bulb or tuber during winter. This method involves digging up the tuber, cleaning it, and storing it in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Storing as a Tuber
- Carefully dig up the tuber after the plant has finished flowering and the leaves have yellowed.
- Brush off excess soil and allow it to dry for a few days in a cool, shaded area.
- Place the tuber in a paper bag or a box filled with peat moss or vermiculite.
- Store in a cool, dark place with temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C).
- Check periodically for signs of mold or rot and remove affected tubers.
Resuming Growth in Spring
When the danger of frost has passed, and outdoor conditions are suitable, you can replant your Begonia Rex outdoors or bring the tuber back inside to start growing again. Gradually reintroduce the plant to brighter light and increase watering as it begins to sprout new growth.
Summary
- Bring your Begonia Rex indoors before the first frost.
- Place in a bright, warm, and humid environment.
- Water sparingly and maintain consistent temperatures.
- Alternatively, store the tuber in a cool, dark place during winter.
- Reintroduce the plant to outdoor conditions in spring gradually.