Begonia Dragon Wing Red

• Dragon Wing Red originates from hybrid breeding programs combining different begonia species to create superior flowering performance. The 'Dragon Wing' series was developed for enhanced heat tolerance and continuous blooming.
• Features glossy, deep green foliage that provides perfect contrast to the bright red flowers which appear in clusters along arching stems. Growth habit is naturally cascading, making it ideal for hanging baskets.
• People love this begonia for its reliable flowering from spring through autumn, requiring minimal maintenance while delivering maximum visual impact. It's particularly valued for its ability to thrive in containers.
• The flowers are semi-double with a waxy texture that helps them withstand weather better than many other begonia varieties. Each bloom can last several weeks before naturally dropping.

• Water every 2-3 days in warm weather, allowing top inch of soil to dry between waterings - reduce to weekly in winter. Always water at soil level, never on leaves.
• Position in bright, indirect light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors - 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight is ideal for best flowering.
• Use well-draining potting mix with added perlite or bark chips - standard potting mix often retains too much moisture for begonias. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
• Feed fortnightly with balanced liquid fertiliser during spring and summer, monthly in autumn - cease feeding in winter when growth slows significantly.
• Pinch growing tips regularly to maintain bushy shape and deadhead spent flowers weekly - this encourages continuous blooming and prevents energy going to seed production.
• Maintain humidity above 40% by using pebble trays or grouping plants together - dry air causes leaf drop and poor flowering.
• Move indoors before first frost in cooler regions - can be grown as houseplant year-round in heated homes.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors - avoid harsh midday sun which can scorch delicate leaves. Rotate pot weekly for even growth.
• Water when top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring excess drains freely - typically every 2-3 days in warm weather. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Maintain humidity around 40-60% by placing on pebble trays or grouping with other plants - mist air around plant, not leaves directly. Indoor heating can dry air significantly.
• Keep temperatures between 18-26°C for optimal growth and flowering - protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Move indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
• Pinch spent flowers regularly and trim leggy growth to encourage bushy habit - feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertiliser.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth and flower buds - spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil weekly until cleared. Check regularly during warm months when infestations are most common.
• Overwatering causes yellowing leaves and root rot - ensure pots have drainage holes and allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Remove affected leaves and reduce watering frequency immediately.
• Powdery mildew appears as white patches on leaves in humid conditions - improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Treat with fungicidal spray if severe.
• Thrips cause silvery streaks on leaves and can damage flowers - use yellow sticky traps and spray with predatory mites or appropriate insecticide. Remove damaged foliage promptly.