Troubleshooting
Hairy-Leaf Begonia problems — and how to fix them
Hairy-Leaf Begonia (Begonia hispida) 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.
Botrytis (grey mould) on foliage
The dense hair covering traps moisture and makes leaves especially vulnerable to grey mould; always water at the base, ensure good airflow, and promptly remove affected leaves.
Mealybugs in stem axils
Mealybugs hide in the junctions between leaf stalks and stems; inspect regularly and treat with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol or a systemic insecticide for heavy infestations.
Prevent hairy-leaf begonia problems before they start
Most hairy-leaf begonia issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hairy-Leaf Begonia problems — FAQ
Why is my hairy-leaf begonia botrytis (grey mould) on foliage?
The dense hair covering traps moisture and makes leaves especially vulnerable to grey mould; always water at the base, ensure good airflow, and promptly remove affected leaves.
Why is my hairy-leaf begonia mealybugs in stem axils?
Mealybugs hide in the junctions between leaf stalks and stems; inspect regularly and treat with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol or a systemic insecticide for heavy infestations.