Elephant Ear Begonia

Watering is one of the most important aspects of successfully growing an Elephant Ear Begonia. The plant should be kept in evenly moist soil at all times, but allowed to dry out between waterings. If the soil becomes too dry, then the leaves may begin to curl or drop off. In order to keep the soil at the right level of moisture, check the soil every few days and water as needed.If you're unsure whether it's time to water, insert your finger into the potting soil up to the first knuckle and feel for wetness.

Elephant EarBegonias prefer a bright, indirect light. They can handle direct sun for short periods of time, but cannot remain in direct sunlight for extended periods of time or the leaves may scorch. During the spring and summer months, the plants should be kept outdoors in an area that gets indirect sunlight, and then moved indoors during the cooler autumn and winter months. Begonias require several hours of light each day to remain healthy.

Elephant Ear Begonias like warm and humid temperatures, ranging from 70 - 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and dropping no lower than 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. It should be noted that if the temperature gets cold enough, the foliage of the Begonia may begin to suffer, so the plant should be protected from frost and temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Elephant Ear Begonias prefer a humid environment. Place a small humidifier close to the plant, and mist the plant leaves with a spray bottle. Don't forget to dust leaves regularly in order to keep them clean and free of pests!

Elephant Ear Begonias need a soil that is light and well-draining with a slightly acidic pH. Special potting soil mix designed for Begonias is the best option. If you need to adjust the pH of the soil, either use a balanced fertilizer or add peat or perlite.

Elephant Ear Begonias should be fertilized every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength. During the autumn and winter months, you can reduce the amount of fertilization, only fertilizing the plant once a month. Never over-fertilize the plant, as too much fertilizer can cause burning or damage to the foliage.

Elephant Ear Begonias can be subject to attack by pests such as mealybugs, aphids, fungus gnats, mites, and scales. It's important to check the plant regularly for signs of infestation and to take action if any pests are spotted. Organic insecticidal soap is a useful tool to use as it is relatively safe for the environment and nontoxic to humans and pets. Alternatively, neem oil, which is a natural pesticide, can be used to kill off pests on the plant. Additionally, introducing beneficial predatory insects such as ladybugs and praying mantises can help to keep some pests at bay.

It's important to repot the Elephant Ear Begonia every 2-3 years. The best time to do this is in either spring or summer. Before repotting, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current pot and has drainage holes at the bottom. When repotting, fill the new pot with a fresh potting soil mix that is specifically designed for Begonias. After repotting, water thoroughly.

Pruning is an essential part of maintaining an Elephant Ear Begonia. Prune away any dead or dying leaves or stems in order to ensure that the plant remains healthy. Pruning also encourages the plant to create new shoots and foliage. Prune the Begonia in the late winter or early spring, and use sharp, sterilized pruning shears or scissors to perform the pruning.

Mulching can help to keep the soil moist and temperature even. When mulching, use organic materials such as wood chips or dried leaves. Just be sure to avoid materials that tend to stay wet for extended periods of time, such as hay or grass clippings.

Elephant Ear Begonias can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings. To propagate from seed, fill a container with a moistened soil mix and plant the seeds, covering them with a thin layer of the soil mix. Place the container in an area where it will receive bright, indirect sunlight and water every few days. To propagate from stem cuttings, use a sharp, clean pair of scissors to cut 3 inch pieces from the stems and place them into a container filled with moistened soil. Cover the top of the container with clear plastic wrap and ensure that the top remains closed. Place the container in an area with bright, indirect light and wait for new leaves to begin to grow.

Elephant Ear Begonias do not require any support upon reaching adulthood, though they may benefit from some form of support if grown indoors. To help the plant's foliage stay upright and to prevent it from drooping, place a stake or two in the pot and gently tie the stems to the stake with some fabric.

An Elephant Ear Begonia does not require a rest period, though it may benefit from one. During the winter months when the temperature and light levels drop, allow the Begonia to rest by reducing the amount of water given to it. Not only will this rest period help to prevent leaf burn, but it will also help the plant to conserve energy.

The Elephant Ear Begonia is not toxic to pets. In fact, it's actually beneficial as the leaves contain essential oils that may have insect repellent and antifungal properties.