How to prune begonia 'black velvet'

Flower stems removed as they appear; damaged leaves year-round. Snip flower stalks at the base as soon as they emerge to redirect energy to foliage. Remove damaged leaves by cutting cleanly at the petiole base with sterile scissors. Trim rhizome tips only if they creep over the pot rim.

As needed. Begonia rex 'Black Velvet' is a foliage plant grown for its dramatic dark leaves and needs minimal pruning. Remove spent flower stems at the base since the blooms are insignificant and sap energy from leaf production. Cut away any dying or damaged leaves promptly, and trim an overlong rhizome tip to keep the plant compact.

Snip flower stalks at the base as soon as they emerge to redirect energy to foliage. Remove damaged leaves by cutting cleanly at the petiole base with sterile scissors. Trim rhizome tips only if they creep over the pot rim.