How to propagate begonias – for more pretty plants both indoors and out

Q: I have a couple of begonias in my houseplant collection and I'm interested in propagating them. What's the best method to do so?

A: Whether you're growing begonias indoors or out, there are a few different approaches to propagating them. Most varieties will propagate successfully from leaf cuttings (taken in early summer) or stem cuttings (taken in spring). Tuberous varieties of begonia can also be propagated via springtime division.

The good news is that all are relatively straightforward, and will reward you with more of these luscious plants for free.

How to divide begonias by taking leaf cuttings

Taking plant cuttings in this way may seem unusual, but it's a good option for many types of indoor begonias grown for their attractive foliage, such as Begonia rex. 'You can use an entire leaf or sections,' says gardening expert Tony O'Neill. 'If using sections, ensure each has a main vein.'

1. 'Start with a healthy begonia – ideally mature and disease-free,' says Tony.
2. 'Fill a pot with a mix of perlite and peat moss. Ensure the pot has good drainage,' he adds.
3. Remove a newly mature leaf using a pair of clean and sharp pruners or scissors.
4. Cut off the stalk, then make small cuts through the main veins, each about 1in apart, advises the Royal Horticultural Society. This encourages root development, Tony explains.
5. Place the leaf, vein-side down, on the prepared potting mix. 'Use pins to secure the leaf to the soil,' Tony says.
6. Water lightly, and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light, Tony continues. 'Consider using a plastic cover or bag to create a mini greenhouse effect, which maintains humidity.'

'You should see new growth in a few weeks to a couple of months, indicating successful propagation,' Tony says.

Tony O'Neill

Tony O'Neill is an accomplished gardening expert, author, and educator. With a passion for simplifying gardening practices, he has inspired a wide audience through his popular YouTube channel and website SimplifyGardening.com. Tony's expertise empowers individuals to cultivate thriving gardens and connect with nature.

How to divide begonias by taking stem cuttings

Taking stem cuttings is a popular method of propagation used for many plants, including rubber plants, monstera, and pothos. The technique can also be used for begonias – it's simple once you know how:

1. 'Cut a healthy stem below a leaf node, ideally 3-4 inches long,' says Tony.
2. 'Remove the lower leaves, keeping 1-2 leaves at the top,' Tony continues.
3. Insert the stem into a pot of well-draining potting soil. Bury about half of it, he instructs.
4. As with propagation by leaf cuttings, water it lightly, then place it somewhere warm with good, but not direct, sunlight.

'You should continue watering the cutting once the top half of the soil dries out,' says Vladan Nikolic, a houseplant expert. 'The new roots will form in 2-3 weeks.

'To check if the roots have formed, you can gently tug on the stem of the cutting,' he adds. If they have, you will feel a bit of resistance.

How to propagate begonias by division

Many begonias grown outdoors are of the tuberous variety. Once growth is underway, in spring, these can often be divided to make new plants. Gardening expert John Negus shares his step-by-step tips:

1. Take a sharp knife, making sure it is sterilized, then slice the tubers into sizeable sprouted sections.
2. Dust the cut edges with rooting powder (such as the Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder from Amazon, which is well-rated).
3. Leave the wounds to dry for half a day to discourage any infection from developing.
4. Plant the tuber portions, setting them crater-side upwards into seed trays of gritty potting compost. Water them in and speed growth at a temperature of around 61°F.

John Negus

John has been a garden journalist for over 50 years and regularly answers readers' questions in Amateur Gardening magazine. He has also written four books and has delivered many talks over the years on horticulture.

Top tip: Division is a useful way to make other plants for free, including many outdoor perennials, and indoor spider plants and peace lilies. Just ensure each divided section has a good system of roots attached.

FAQs

Once you've had a go at propagating begonias, why not make more of your other houseplants, too? Aloes and succulents are particularly easy choices to try. You'll soon have lots of beautiful new plants to add to your interior scheme – and any extras make great gifts.