Polka dot begonia care: watering, light and repotting
Also called begonia tamaya, spotted begonia · Begonia maculata · Begoniaceae family
10 d in winter
How often to water the polka dot begonia?
Allow about 6 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 10 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Don't mist its leaves: they catch powdery mildew. Let the top of the soil dry out and stake its long canes.
What light does it need?
The polka dot begonia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 3 weeks is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 2–3 ft (60 cm–1 m).
Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
White powder on the leaves
Cause: Powdery mildew from damp foliage. What to do: Remove the affected leaves and air the room.
Falling leaves
Cause: Too much water or a draught. What to do: Let it dry out and move it somewhere sheltered.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the polka dot begonia?
About every 6 days in spring and summer, and every 10 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the polka dot begonia?
The polka dot begonia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the polka dot begonia?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the polka dot begonia?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the polka dot begonia safe?
The polka dot begonia is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep the plant out of their reach and, if they eat some, call a vet.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Fairly: the polka dot begonia needs a little attention, mostly with watering and light. Nothing complicated with a reminder at the right time.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.