Can a Red Dragon Wing Begonia Be Propagated by Division?

Recommendations

• Because of the branching, fibrous root system of the Dragon Wing Red begonia, plant division is neither the easiest nor preferred way for propagation. Instead, take stem tip, leaf or stem node-segment cuttings in the warmth of spring or summer. Root these tissues in evenly moist soil in a bright, indirect light location. Cuttings prevent unnecessary breakage to the main begonia's stems and destruction or disruption to the thin matrix of roots.

Division Insight

• A large Dragon Wing Red begonia plant may become more advantageous to a division propagation scenario if numerous stems grow from the soil. Gently pull back the plant's stems to see how the stems emerge from the soil. If stem sprouts occur across a wide area, with gaps of 2 inches or more between them, dividing the root ball may be worth an attempt. As long as the stem sprouts aren't damaged or fully broken off, the plant will regrow if an ample mass of roots remains intact after digging and splitting up the plant.

Challenges

• A healthy, robustly growing Dragon Wing Red begonia displays numerous stems and leaves. Digging up and dividing the root ball is a delicate and tedious task. Handling the plant too roughly snaps stems, and the thicket of leaves and stems makes viewing the stem bases and root ball difficult. Slicing the root ball with a spade or long-bladed knife may result in further stem breakage. The plants acquired after dividing up this begonia's root ball will be beat-up and tattered looking. Taking stem tip cuttings to root in soil would be less traumatic and labor-intensive.

Aftercare

• If intact stems remain on sections of root ball, immediately replant the divisions in soil. Plant them at the same depth in the soil they previously grew. Planting too shallowly increases water loss and root death from dry soil, while planting too deeply leads to root and stem rot. Water the soil lightly after planting to remove air pockets and settle the soil. Do not overwater, as excessive moisture prevents any root or stem cut wounds from callusing and preventing rot. Pinching back the plant to a height of 3 to 6 inches tall lessens the need for the roots to absorb moisture and sustain the vegetation and flowers. Within a four to six weeks, new stem and leaf sprouts grow, creating a dense, established new plant.