I grow my canes (angelwings) outside, some in the ground and some in pots, and I must not be too far from you if you were affected by Rita. (But we don't get over 100--? Too humid!) I've been cutting my canes back, a few stalks at a time, as they start growing at the base. Sometimes I get stupid and just cut them back part-way, but then they grow new shoots at all kinds of crazy angles and I kick myself once again. Don't like to cut them all to the ground at once, tho' I'm not sure it would hurt, so I just cut a few at a time. To make nice stocky plants and to get the best bloom they need some sun or dappled shade, not full shade, and I've even read where some people grow them in full sun. I'm too chicken! You can feed them a weak solution of any good 'balanced' liquid fertilizer every time you water, or every so often, or you can use a time-release fertilizer. Down here we shouldn't use Osmocote, which is fine where it's not so hot and humid but releases all at once after the temperature hits--I forget exactly, but something like 85. They're not fussy about fertilizer, but obviously appreciate some at least now and then. I also like to use a mulch of organics like leaves, whatever's handy. This is one group of plants you don't have to worry about over-potting at least in this part of the world--my first begonia 'guru' said, 'if you want a big plant, put it in a big pot'. Of course, that won't work if you have one of the dwarf types, but you'd be amazed how big and beautiful they can grow. Butch posted a picture on here fairly recently of a plant at a show that was about as tall as his wife. I'm too retarded to post a link, but you can search the site for it.

Hi you can cut back at any time I have one that is over 5 ft tall and also has to be cut but i'am waiting to find people who want some pieces. To get it to flower use 10-60-10 the middle nu has to to high for the flower when you cut you can place the pieces in water and it will root in about 3 weeks its an easy plent to grow Anna lisa

I have a angel wing begonia--kept in a sunny window over winter. I would like to separte it into two or 3 plants. any suggestions-have't had one before also any soil preference ? any light preference? any info appreciated. it is about four feet now. thanks.

They're usually pretty easy to divide--just knock it out of the pot and give it a bit of a shake to loosen the root-ball. Often it will divide itself, otherwise you can gently ease it into several pieces. Actually, it would probably be possible to take a knife to it and hack it into several pieces as you wish. They prefer a light potting mix that drains well but stays moist without being soggy. Good light, some sun, light feeding.

Can I cut the top portion of my begonia? It is getting pretty tall and I have it staked right now and here soon I will have to buy a longer stake. I don't want to hurt my plant by cutting the top off. Please help!!