Begonia boliviensis ‘Santa Cruz Sunset’

Benary’s first Begonia boliviensis from seed, the ‘Santa Cruz Sunset’ is great for landscapes, hanging baskets, or containers that must tolerate extreme heat and weather conditions. In easy-to-sow pellets, the begonia has more than 85 percent germination and doesn’t require pinching or dead heading. Santa Cruz Sunset blooms 5-inch-wide, burnt-orange flowers, grows 12 to 16 inches in height and spreads 16 to 20 inches. It is a long-day plant and needs 14 to 16 hours of light for flower initiation. Its bloom time starts in late spring and lasts until frost.

Production:

• First stage of germination: Keep pellets uncovered and maintain high moisture. Temperature should be between 70-73°F with a humidity of 95 percent. Using additional light will accelerate germination and improve the quality of the seedlings.
   
• Continue for seven to 14 days with long day lighting and avoid saturated or dry media. Water temperature should be 64°F, and air temperature should be 68-70°F. Lower the humidity levels.
   
• Last stage of germination will last between 28 and 42 days. Temperature should be kept between 64-68°F.
   
• Sowing media should be a well-drained, growing substrate. The pH level should be 5.5 to 6.2.
   
• Transplant one plant into 4- to 5-inch pot after seven to eight weeks.
   
• Media should be a well-drained, growing substrate with 20 to 30 percent clay, 1-1, 5 kg/m3 complete balanced fertilizer, 0-2 kg/m slow release fertilizer, iron-cheleate, micronutrients and a pH of 5.5 to 6.0.
   
• Fertilize weekly with 150-200 ppm nitrogen with a complete and potassium balanced fertilizer. Avoid a pH above 6.5.
   
• Temperature should remain between 60-64°F. Temperature may be reduced to 60°F 10 days before selling.
   
• Harden the plants at 64°F and UV lights prior to selling.

Did You Know?
‘Santa Cruz Sunset’ is heat, drought and rain tolerant.