Begonia

Launched in 2014, Bossa Nova is a revolutionary alternative to cutting-raised begonia. Pink Glow and Ivory are two new colors added to the series for 2015. Bred for its branching and floriferous habit, Bossa Nova looks great in large containers and hanging baskets. 

Use a well-drained, disease-free, peat-based plug medium with pH between 5.5 and 5.8 and EC between 0.5 and 1.0. Do not bury plugs, as this can encourage crown rot.

Keep soil temperature at 65-68° F for rooting out, then lower to 61-68° F to grow on. Once established, night temperatures can be dropped as low as 50-54° F. 

Maintain light levels below 4,000 foot-candles. Low light levels promote bigger leaves and leafy growth; high light levels promote more compact habit and prolific flowering.

Practice a good wet/dry moisture cycle, but avoid overdrying. Water early in the day to avoid leaf scorch on sunny days. Bossa Nova responds well to sub-irrigation.

Feed one to two times per week with 200- to 300-ppm nitrogen from 20-10-20, 15-5-15 or 17-5-17. Alternating with a high potassium feed will help to keep plants compact when flowering.