Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Begonia 'First Blush' is a popular Rex Begonia known for its stunning foliage. It's a hybrid in the 'T Rex' series, which are bred to be vigorous and a bit more cold-tolerant than other Rex Begonias, making them a great choice for both indoor and outdoor container gardening in the appropriate climate. Its large, silvery leaves have a beautiful pinkish blush at the center that deepens as the leaves mature.
Here is a comprehensive guide to caring for your Begonia 'First Blush':
Light
Bright, indirect light is essential. This is the most important factor for maintaining the plant's vibrant colors and patterns. Too little light will cause the leaves to fade, and too much direct sunlight will burn the delicate foliage.
Ideal placement: A north or east-facing window is perfect. If you have a south or west-facing window, place the plant a few feet back or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the light.
Can be grown outdoors in a shady, protected location, such as under a tree or on a porch that receives only dappled light.
Watering
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again. Begonias are very susceptible to root rot if their soil stays soggy. It's better to slightly underwater than to overwater.
Water thoroughly. When you do water, do so until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure the plant is not sitting in a saucer of water.
Avoid getting water on the leaves. The textured foliage can hold water, which makes the plant prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Water directly at the base of the plant.
Reduce watering in the fall and winter, as the plant's growth naturally slows down and it may even enter a dormant state.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity is preferred. As a tropical plant, 'First Blush' thrives in humidity levels of 50% or higher.
Ways to increase humidity:
Use a humidifier near the plant.
Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, making sure the bottom of the pot is not in the water.
Group the plant with other plants to create a humid microclimate.
Maintain warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range is 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes. Keep the plant away from cold windows, air conditioning vents, or heating sources.
Soil and Potting
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. A mix made for begonias, African violets, or a standard houseplant mix amended with perlite, vermiculite, or coco coir will provide the ideal conditions.
Shallow pots are a good choice. Like other rhizomatous begonias, 'First Blush' grows from a horizontal rhizome that sits at or just below the soil surface. A wide, shallow pot gives the rhizome room to spread and grow.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is in the spring.
Fertilizer
Feed during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks from spring through early fall.
Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength to prevent root burn.
Do not fertilize in winter.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune to maintain shape. You can pinch back leggy stems to encourage a bushier, more compact growth habit.
Remove dead or yellowing leaves. Regularly trim away any unhealthy foliage to keep the plant tidy and to prevent disease. Good air circulation is key.
Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for common pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Powdery mildew is a common fungal issue, often caused by poor air circulation and high humidity.
