Begonias Rotting - Ask Extension
What can I do to correct or save my begonia? They were so beautiful busting out with blooms all over and I thought by having them inside I could watch...
Knowledgebase
Begonias Rotting #703610
Asked July 21, 2020, 2:54 PM EDT
What can I do to correct or save my begonia? They were so beautiful busting out with blooms all over and I thought by having them inside I could watch and enjoy them better. But, they are growing and dying at the same time. I don't know why my question was previously rejected but I may have to throw out plant if cannot get answer soon as it is rapidly dying, now.
Montgomery County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
Good afternoon, and thanks for your question.
From your pictures, it appears your begonias have a disease called stem rot. It's caused by the Pythium fungus and is typically brought on by over-watering your plants. We literally kill them with kindness.
Unfortunately, once infected there is no known cure. Enjoy them while you can, but then discard the soil and sterilize the pots before using them again.
I'm enclosing a link that you might find helpful.
We're very sorry about your plants. Please think of us again with any new questions you might have.