The Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ is a captivating hybrid admired for its distinctive foliage. This rhizomatous begonia grows from creeping rhizomes just beneath the soil surface. Its leaves are typically small, unincised, and possess a unique texture, often displaying chartreuse, chocolate, or dusty green tones with radiant chartreuse-green spots. The undersides can feature a striking red hue. While it produces delicate pink to white flowers, often blooming from winter through spring, the plant’s primary appeal lies in its varied leaf patterns.
Begonia Kit Kat Care
Light
Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window provides suitable illumination. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Conversely, insufficient light may lead to leggy growth, where the plant stretches out in search of more brightness, diminishing its compact form and vibrant leaf coloration. Filtered light, such as through a sheer curtain, mimics its preferred dappled natural environment.
Watering
Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, a common issue for begonias, while prolonged dryness can cause leaves to become crispy and wilted. When watering, ensure water flows freely from drainage holes, but avoid letting the pot sit in standing water.
Soil
Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ prefers a well-draining, airy, and humus-rich potting mix. A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to ensure good aeration and prevent soil compaction. A slightly acidic soil pH, between 6 and 7, is favored by begonias. Using fresh potting mix during repotting maintains optimal drainage and provides adequate airspace for the roots.
Temperature and Humidity
This begonia prefers average room temperatures, between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It is sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can cause stress. Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ also appreciates high humidity, a characteristic shared with many tropical plants. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray filled with water or a room humidifier, as misting the leaves directly may encourage fungal issues.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, typically spring and summer, Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ benefits from regular feeding. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, every two to four weeks. Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn. During the dormant period in late fall and winter, reduce or cease fertilization to allow the plant to rest.
Potting and Repotting
Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ requires repotting when it becomes root-bound, indicated by roots circling the pot or stunted growth. The ideal time for repotting is in the spring, as the plant enters its active growth phase. When selecting a new pot, choose one that is only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one to prevent excess moisture retention, which can lead to root issues.
During repotting, gently remove the plant from its old container, taking care not to damage the delicate root system. Loosen any tightly bound roots before placing the plant in the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes. After repotting, avoid immediate fertilization to allow the roots to settle into their new environment.
Propagating Begonia Kit Kat
Propagating Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ is achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and make a cut just below a node, where roots will emerge. Remove any lower leaves to expose the nodes. Place the cutting in water until roots develop or directly into a moist, well-draining rooting medium.
Leaf cuttings are also effective; a healthy leaf can be cut into sections, ensuring each section includes a portion of the main vein. Lay these sections flat on moist potting mix and cover to maintain high humidity. Using rooting hormone can enhance the success rate of both methods, promoting quicker root development. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth for successful rooting.
Common Problems
Yellowing leaves on Begonia ‘Kit Kat’ indicate overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root issues. Allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensuring proper drainage resolves this. Crispy or browning leaf tips are a sign of low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier helps.
Stunted growth results from insufficient light, a lack of nutrients, or the plant being root-bound. Adjusting light exposure, providing appropriate fertilization, or repotting addresses these issues. Common pests, such as spider mites and mealybugs, may affect begonias. Regularly inspecting the plant and treating infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil manages these problems.