Troubleshooting
Begonia 'Stained Glass' problems — and how to fix them
Begonia 'Stained Glass' (Begonia rex-cultorum 'Stained 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
A common rex-begonia issue; white powdery patches form in humid, stagnant air. Boost airflow and keep foliage dry.
Crown and root rot
Soggy soil or a buried rhizome causes mushy collapse; keep the rhizome on the surface and let the top of the soil dry between waterings.
Crisp brown leaf edges
Low humidity or dry indoor heat browns the margins; raise humidity and keep away from radiators and draughts.
Winter leaf drop
Natural semi-dormancy in short, cool days; reduce water and be patient until spring growth resumes.
Prevent begonia 'stained glass' problems before they start
Most begonia 'stained 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 'Stained Glass' watering schedule
- Begonia 'Stained Glass' light requirements
- Best soil mix for begonia 'stained glass'
- Begonia 'Stained Glass' temperature & humidity
- Full begonia 'stained glass' care guide
Looking for the species overview? Begonia — the full care guide.
Begonia 'Stained Glass' problems — FAQ
Why is my begonia 'stained glass' powdery mildew?
A common rex-begonia issue; white powdery patches form in humid, stagnant air. Boost airflow and keep foliage dry.
Why is my begonia 'stained glass' crown and root rot?
Soggy soil or a buried rhizome causes mushy collapse; keep the rhizome on the surface and let the top of the soil dry between waterings.
Why is my begonia 'stained glass' crisp brown leaf edges?
Low humidity or dry indoor heat browns the margins; raise humidity and keep away from radiators and draughts.
Why is my begonia 'stained glass' winter leaf drop?
Natural semi-dormancy in short, cool days; reduce water and be patient until spring growth resumes.