Begonias are good plants to procrastinate with--at least so far as throwing them away--and it's much too soon to throw out a Rex. They do often seem to go through a dormant period in winter, and as temperatures rise and day length increases they'll come out of it and start to grow. I'm curious about your comment that misting them made them mildew. I've never done much misting, but I don't believe that should have had that effect unless there's a problem with your water. (One of the reasons I don't mist is the water here.) I wouldn't think it would be too necessary in California--more important perhaps in cold climates where heating dries out the air. And about the leaf rotting and getting thrown out--for next time!--I put down a left-over leaf last fall, just because I had it, and after several months it had obviously rotted and I thought I should dump it. Didn't get around to it for awhile--and then discovered a tiny little plant growing. You never know!

I wouldn't discard it if the roots and stem look good.

Hi greenelbows,
I'm an absolute novice at gardening and didn't know abt 'zones' until a few weeks back:)So made the mistake of misting-which now i realize is probably not meant for those living in CA.
I guess i'll ignore my rex for a few months(except for occasional watering).
thanks
-Shef

Lots to learn, and you've come to a good place. Lots of helpful people on these forums. I've been at it since we lived in caves--or at least that's what one of my wide-eyed innocent kids thought a long time ago!--and I'm still learning, but the trip sure is fun! Good growing!