Begonia tuberhybrida
Illumination®
Tuberous-rooted Begonia, Begonia tuberosa

Culture guide

Uses:
Hanging baskets, patio containers, window boxes and pot plants

Exposure:
Sun - Partial shade

Garden height:
8" / 20 cm

Crop time:
18-20 weeks

Sow time:
November for flowering pots from April onwards, December-January for flowering bedding plants from May onwards

Sowing method:
1-2 seeds/pellets per plug

Germination:
Germination will occur in 7-14 days at 75-78 °F (23-25 °C). Sow seed on a fine media with good water holding capacity and good drainage. Consistent moisture levels are important to uniform germination. Humidity levels above 95 % and a media pH between 5.5 and 6.5 are important. Do not cover seed as light is required to germinate. Supplemental 24-hour assimilation light provided at this stage will increase germination, reduce crop time and improve plug quality.
Growing On:
Transplant plugs into finished containers with a well drained media, and pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Maintain day length in excess of 14 hours. Continued supplemental lighting will improve plant quality
and shorten crop time. Growing temperatures between 68-72 °F (18-22 °C) optimize growth and flowering. Fertilize at 150-250 ppm nitrogen in a well-balanced formula.

Media:
Use a well-drained, growing substrate with 15-30
% clay, 0-20 % perlite, 1-2 kg/m2 complete balanced fertilizer, iron-chelate, micronutrients, pH 5.5-6.2.

Temperature:
Grow at 16-18 °C. 10 days before selling temperature can be decreased
to 16 °C. Temperatures below 14 °C will result in tuber formation and crop delay.

Fertilization:
Moderate fertilization levels are required. Fertilize weekly with 150-200 ppm
nitrogen, using a complete and potassium balanced fertilizer (N:K2O-ratio: 1:1,5). Keep low ammonium levels, otherwise the roots become damaged. At high nitrogen levels the foliage can become very big. Avoid pH above 6.5, as high
pH causes iron deficiency. Apply chelated iron, if chlorosis becomes a problem. To prevent magnesium deficiency apply magnesium sulphate (0,025 %) 1-2 times. Additional foliage
fertilization with potassium supports compact plant
growth and provides a dark green foliage colour.
Avoid high soluble salts in the soil.

“Information copied from the breeder.
Muller will not accept any liability for failure and/or damage as a consequence of incorrect and/or inexpert cultivation by or on behalf of the Buyer.”