Angel Wing Begonias, belonging to the genus Begonia, are native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America. In their natural habitat, they thrive as understory plants, meaning they grow beneath the canopy of larger trees. This evolutionary background is crucial to understanding their summer outdoor needs. They are not adapted to full, direct sunlight or arid conditions. Instead, they are programmed for bright, dappled light, consistently warm temperatures, and high humidity. Their large, wing-shaped leaves, while beautiful, are susceptible to scorching under intense ultraviolet radiation. Furthermore, their fibrous root systems prefer a moist but exceptionally well-draining growing medium, as they are prone to rot in waterlogged soil.
Yes, Angel Wing Begonias can not only live outside but often flourish during the summer months when provided with the correct environment. The key is to replicate their native conditions as closely as possible. The perfect outdoor summer spot is one that offers bright but indirect light. This could be on a shaded patio, under a dense tree that filters the sunlight, or on a north or east-facing porch that is protected from the harsh afternoon sun. The ambient temperature should ideally remain between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C). They relish the increased humidity of summer air compared to the dry conditions inside a typical air-conditioned home.
Despite enjoying the outdoors, several summer elements pose significant threats that must be managed. Direct midday sun will quickly cause leaf scorch, manifesting as brown, crispy patches on the leaves, effectively burning the delicate foliage. Strong winds can easily tatter and tear the large, soft leaves and cause structural damage to the canes. Perhaps the most common danger is improper watering. Summer heat increases evaporation, so the plant will require more frequent watering. However, the goal is to keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy. It is essential to water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch and to ensure the pot has excellent drainage. Overwatering in combination with heat can create a lethal environment for root rot.
You cannot simply move a plant that has been living indoors directly into full summer conditions. A gradual acclimatization process, often called "hardening off," is required. This involves placing the plant in its intended shady outdoor spot for just a few hours each day, gradually increasing its time outside over 7-10 days. This allows the plant to slowly build a tolerance to the increased light intensity and wind movement. Once situated outdoors, vigilance is key. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves for pests like spider mites and aphids, which may be more prevalent outside. A consistent feeding schedule with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength every two to four weeks will support the vigorous growth that summer encourages.
