Begonias can have issues with powdery mildew, bacterial leaf spot and vine weevils. To defend against bacterial infections, try to maintain good garden hygiene. Space the plants out adequately to allow for good air circulation so it does not become too crowded and humid within the leaves. Check leaves regularly for vine weevil infestations including small notches bitten into the leaves. Try to pick off as many as you can if you find them, including any larvae. You can also use specific nematodes that will target the vine weevils and cause them to die, if you notice a serious infestation.

During the growing season, water your begonias every 2 to 4 days - in containers or hanging baskets, and in hot weather, you should water your begonias daily.

Begonias like dappled sunshine and areas of partial shade. Aim for your begonia to receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Begonias prefer a slightly acidic soil that's rich in nutrients and that drains well. It's important that the soil doesn't contain too much nitrogen, however.

Feed every week to ten days during the growing period with a high-potash feed such as liquid-tomato fertiliser until October for the best blooms. After October you should stop feeding so the plant can prepare itself for winter.