How to prune escargot begonia

Early spring before new growth begins; deadhead throughout the growing season. Cut dead leaves and spent flower stalks back to the rhizome. Trim leggy stems to within a few inches of the soil. Use clean, sterile scissors and avoid leaving stubs that can rot.

Annually in spring for reshaping; deadhead and tidy as needed during the season. Escargot Begonia (Begonia rex 'Escargot') benefits from occasional pruning to maintain vigor. Remove spent flowers, dead leaves, and any leggy or crowded stems in early spring. Rhizomatous begonias can be cut back hard if overgrown — new growth emerges readily from the rhizome. Good air circulation prevents mildew.

Cut dead leaves and spent flower stalks back to the rhizome. Trim leggy stems to within a few inches of the soil. Use clean, sterile scissors and avoid leaving stubs that can rot.