Troubleshooting
Begonia 'Looking Glass' problems — and how to fix them
Begonia 'Looking Glass' (Begonia rex-cultorum 'Looking Glass') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Powdery mildew
Rex begonias are especially mildew-prone; white film appears in humid, still air. Increase airflow and keep leaves dry.
Crown and root rot
Overwatering or a buried rhizome causes soft, collapsing stems; keep the rhizome on the surface and let soil dry slightly between waterings.
Winter leaf drop / dormancy
Short cool days trigger semi-dormancy and leaf loss; reduce water, keep warm, and wait for spring regrowth rather than overwatering.
Faded silver colour
Metallic sheen dulls in too little or too much light; provide steady bright indirect light out of direct sun.
Prevent begonia 'looking glass' problems before they start
Most begonia 'looking glass' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common rex begonia problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Begonia 'Looking Glass' watering schedule
- Begonia 'Looking Glass' light requirements
- Best soil mix for begonia 'looking glass'
- Begonia 'Looking Glass' temperature & humidity
- Full begonia 'looking glass' care guide
Looking for the species overview? Begonia — the full care guide.
Begonia 'Looking Glass' problems — FAQ
Why is my begonia 'looking glass' powdery mildew?
Rex begonias are especially mildew-prone; white film appears in humid, still air. Increase airflow and keep leaves dry.
Why is my begonia 'looking glass' crown and root rot?
Overwatering or a buried rhizome causes soft, collapsing stems; keep the rhizome on the surface and let soil dry slightly between waterings.
Why is my begonia 'looking glass' winter leaf drop / dormancy?
Short cool days trigger semi-dormancy and leaf loss; reduce water, keep warm, and wait for spring regrowth rather than overwatering.
Why is my begonia 'looking glass' faded silver colour?
Metallic sheen dulls in too little or too much light; provide steady bright indirect light out of direct sun.