Once considered a ‘grandma’s windowsill’ plant, begonias are now highly coveted by interior designers for their dramatic, metallic foliage and architectural shapes.
At Hildreth’s Garden Centre, we’ve seen many gardening trends come and go over the years, but few plants have made a comeback quite as spectacular as the begonia. Once seen as a traditional garden staple, the begonia has moved front and centre as a must-have for the home. It’s easy to see why; in a world inhabited by a lot of green houseplants, the begonia brings a welcome splash of drama, texture, and almost iridescent colour to any room.
When you’re browsing the houseplant benches here in the shop, the sheer diversity of the begonia family is always a conversation starter. You might be drawn to the iconic Begonia maculata, with its high-fashion silver polka dots and deep crimson undersides, or perhaps the Rex varieties, which look as though their leaves have been hand-painted with metallic swirls of purple and silver. They are, quite simply, living art pieces that offer a level of detail you won’t find in many other plants.
How to grow and care for begonias
The best part? Despite their exotic, almost delicate appearance, begonias are remarkably rewarding to grow if you follow a few simple bits of advice from our team. The secret to a thriving begonia lies in mimicking their natural home on the tropical forest floor. They love light, but they are not fans of the harsh midday sun. Positioning them in a bright, east or west-facing room – where they can enjoy the morning or evening glow without getting scorched – is the first step to success.
When it comes to watering, the most common mistake is being a little too generous. Begonias prefer their soil to dry out slightly between drinks; we recommend the ‘finger test’ – if the top inch of compost feels dry, it’s time to water. It’s also worth remembering that begonias don’t like getting their foliage wet. Watering directly into the soil prevents spotting and keeps that intricate foliage looking its best.
If you find your home is a little dry – especially during the winter months when the heating is on – your begonia will appreciate a bit of extra humidity. Rather than misting the leaves, which can sometimes lead to mildew, try sitting the pot on a tray of wet pebbles. This creates a gentle ‘micro-climate’ of moisture around the plant, keeping those spectacular leaves crisp and vibrant.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or looking for your very first houseplant, the begonia is a wonderful choice. They are communicative plants that tell you exactly what they need, and once they find their ‘happy place’ in your home, they are incredibly resilient.
Next time you’re visiting us in Prestwood, take a look at the latest arrivals on our houseplant benches. There’s a begonia for every corner, and we’re always on hand to help you pick the perfect variety to take home.
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