Troubleshooting
Palmate Begonia problems — and how to fix them
Palmate Begonia (Begonia palmata) 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.
Botrytis leaf spots
The dense reddish-brown hairs trap water droplets, creating ideal conditions for Botrytis cinerea (grey mould). Always water at soil level, ensure good air movement, and remove any dead or damaged leaves promptly.
Rhizome rot
Persistent overwatering or cold, wet compost causes the fleshy rhizome to soften and collapse. Grow in a gritty, fast-draining mix, water sparingly in winter, and never let the pot sit in standing water.
Vine weevil
Vine weevil larvae feed on the thick rhizomes and roots of begonias, causing sudden wilting. Check compost when repotting; treat with biological controls (Steinernema kraussei nematodes) in late summer or autumn.
Prevent palmate begonia problems before they start
Most palmate begonia issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Palmate Begonia problems — FAQ
Why is my palmate begonia botrytis leaf spots?
The dense reddish-brown hairs trap water droplets, creating ideal conditions for Botrytis cinerea (grey mould). Always water at soil level, ensure good air movement, and remove any dead or damaged leaves promptly.
Why is my palmate begonia rhizome rot?
Persistent overwatering or cold, wet compost causes the fleshy rhizome to soften and collapse. Grow in a gritty, fast-draining mix, water sparingly in winter, and never let the pot sit in standing water.
Why is my palmate begonia vine weevil?
Vine weevil larvae feed on the thick rhizomes and roots of begonias, causing sudden wilting. Check compost when repotting; treat with biological controls (Steinernema kraussei nematodes) in late summer or autumn.