How to Root Large Leaf Annual Begonias

Annual begonias can provide season-long color.

Begonias with large leaves, known as "big leaf begonias," include such varieties as Rex begonias and angel wing begonias. The most successful method of big leaf begonia propagation is by stem cuttings. This method is used by commercial growing operations, but can be easily undertaken by the home gardener. Does this Spark an idea?

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Pot
Perlite
Blade
Rooting hormone
Plastic bag
Rubber band

Instructions

- 1
  
  Fill a small pot that has drainage holes with sterile perlite. Water the perlite until it is damp.
- 2
  
  Use a blade to slice at a 45-degree angle through the petiole (leaf stem) of a healthy, large-leaf begonia plant. Slice off all but the main leaf from the stem.
- 3
  
  Lay the leaf on a flat, sterile surface, and sprinkle rooting hormone over the exposed petiole cut. Slide the stem into the perlite far enough so the leaf is supported by the stem. Lightly water the pot, then slip a plastic bag over the top, and secure it around the rim of the pot with a large rubber band.
- 4
  
  Place the pot in a light-filled area out of direct sunlight. Water the pot as often as necessary to maintain damp perlite and high humidity within the bag.
- 5
  
  Transplant the cutting to a pot filled with damp sterile potting mixture when roots have reached approximately 1 inch in length.