Aboutnick mccann Expertise I can give concise answers on growing plants in containers instead of the ground, why and how to plant them and how to maintain them.
Experience Master Gardner in Charlotte County Florida,,with 10 years experience.
Organizations Master Gardner Association of Charlotte County, Florida
Education/Credentials Associates Degree
Past/Present Clients I am currently also an expert in the Tropical Plant dept.
Hello,
I bought an Escargot Begonia Rex about 2 months ago from a Brooklyn nursery, and transplanted it to a clean, 6" terra cotta pot right away. I generally water it about twice a week, and a couple times I have waited until it wilts to give water (so as not to over-water). It is located on a window sill at the front of my brownstone apartment, which gets low, indirect light. Since I've had the Escargot, it has consistently been losing leaves, which turn brown, shrivel, and then I cut them off (per the plant insert instructions). I seem to cut off a newly dead leaf every time I water it. I have also noticed, when watering, that tiny gray bugs scatter out of the pot, I assume so they don't drown. My questions are these:
1. Is the plant supposed to have little gray bugs living in it, and if not, how can I get rid of them?
2. How can I stop the leaves from dying so quickly? Perhaps the bugs are killing it?
3. Does anything else in my care routine need correcting?
I love this plant, and will be very sad if I lose it. I am eager for your helpful response!
Thanks in advance,
Katie
Answer Hi Katie, it sounds like you may have an infestation of "White Fly", have you noticed any cotton looking substances on the stems or leaves? White Fly will wreck havoc and if you do have them, you need to take it outside and you will need to change out the soil. Without seeing the plant and the insects I am speculating, but it sounds like White Fly, and they can be very persistant insect pests, for you can deal with the larvae, but not the adult fly. Nick
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