Begonias are truly ravishing flowers that add a touch of elegance to any garden or indoor space. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they’re also relatively easy to propagate and care for. One of the simplest ways to grow begonias is from their leaves. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Selecting Healthy Leaves: Start by choosing healthy leaves from a mature begonia plant. Look for leaves that are firm, plump, and free from any signs of disease or pests. Gently pluck them from the stem, making sure to include a portion of the petiole (the small stem-like structure attached to the leaf).
2. Preparing the Cuttings: Once you have selected your leaves, trim the petioles to about 2-3 inches in length. This will provide ample space for the cutting to develop roots. If the leaves are large, you can also cut them into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least one vein.
3. Planting the Cuttings: Fill a small pot with well-draining potting soil. Make small holes in the soil using your finger or a pencil, and gently insert the cuttings into the holes, petiole-side down. You can plant multiple cuttings in the same pot, but make sure to space them out evenly to allow room for growth.
4. Providing Proper Care: Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but away from direct sunlight, as intense light can scorch the delicate cuttings. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as begonia cuttings are prone to rot if overwatered. You can mist the cuttings regularly to maintain humidity around them.
5. Encouraging Root Growth: Over the next few weeks, keep a close eye on the cuttings for signs of new growth. You should start to see tiny roots forming along the petioles and possibly new leaves emerging from the leaf sections. Once the roots are well-established, you can transplant the cuttings into individual pots filled with regular potting soil.
6. Caring for Young Plants: As the young begonia plants continue to grow, maintain a consistent watering schedule and provide them with a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks to encourage healthy growth and blooming. Keep them in a location with bright, indirect light for best results.
7. Enjoying Your Begonias: Before you know it, your begonia cuttings will have grown into beautiful, mature plants, adorned with their signature colorful blooms. With proper care and attention, your begonias will continue to thrive and delight you with their beauty for years to come.

Growing begonias from leaves is not only a rewarding experience but also a cost-effective way to expand your begonia collection or share these exquisite flowers with friends and family. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying your own stunning display of begonias in full bloom.