Troubleshooting
Elm-Leaf Begonia problems — and how to fix them
Elm-Leaf Begonia (Begonia ulmifolia) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Spider mites
Fine webbing and stippled, dull foliage indicate a spider mite infestation, which is most common in hot, dry conditions; raise humidity, wipe leaves with a damp cloth, and treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Leggy, bare canes
Over time the lower stems shed leaves leaving bare canes; cut canes back by a third to a half in late winter to stimulate bushy regrowth from dormant buds.
Prevent elm-leaf begonia problems before they start
Most elm-leaf begonia issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Elm-Leaf Begonia problems — FAQ
Why is my elm-leaf begonia spider mites?
Fine webbing and stippled, dull foliage indicate a spider mite infestation, which is most common in hot, dry conditions; raise humidity, wipe leaves with a damp cloth, and treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Why is my elm-leaf begonia leggy, bare canes?
Over time the lower stems shed leaves leaving bare canes; cut canes back by a third to a half in late winter to stimulate bushy regrowth from dormant buds.