Red Dragon Wing Begonia

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: These begonias thrive in partial shade, ideally receiving 2 to 4 hours of morning sun. While they can handle more sun than traditional begonias, too much direct afternoon heat will scorch the leaves and fade the vibrant red blooms.
• Soil: Aim for rich, well draining soil that feels like a wrung out sponge. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost or peat moss to improve aeration, as "wet feet" will quickly lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first few weeks, water every two days to ensure the root ball stays moist while it anchors into its new home. Once established, Red Dragon Wings are surprisingly drought tolerant, but inconsistent watering will cause the lower leaves to yellow and drop. Aim to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch to keep the bloom production steady.

Pruning Tips

Since these begonias bloom on new growth, you can prune them at any time during the growing season to encourage a bushier shape. Think of it like a haircut that triggers a growth spurt; pinching back the tips of the stems forces the plant to branch out rather than getting leggy. If the plant looks tired in midsummer, a light trim will stimulate a fresh flush of foliage and flowers.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your plants every two weeks with a balanced, water soluble fertilizer to fuel their fast growth and heavy blooming. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer season. Too much nitrogen at that stage encourages soft, succulent growth that is highly susceptible to powdery mildew and physical damage from wind.