What to know
- Choose a begonia that will fit comfortably in your chosen growing space, whether it’s a container, garden bed, or indoor setting.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the begonia’s root ball and as deep as the root ball itself.
- Many begonia varieties are not frost-hardy and will need to be overwintered indoors if you live in a cold climate.
Begonias are beloved for their vibrant colors, diverse shapes, and long blooming season. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, learning how to plant begonias is a rewarding experience. These beautiful flowers can brighten up any garden bed, container, or even your windowsill. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of planting begonias, from choosing the right variety to nurturing them to their full potential.
Choosing the Right Begonia for You
The first step in your begonia journey is selecting the perfect variety. Begonias come in a wide range of forms, each with its unique characteristics:
- Wax Begonias: These popular annuals boast vibrant, waxy flowers in a rainbow of colors. They thrive in sunny locations and are perfect for containers or hanging baskets.
- Tuberous Begonias: Known for their large, showy blooms, tuberous begonias come in a variety of colors and shapes. They prefer partial shade and are ideal for adding a touch of elegance to gardens.
- Rex Begonias: These begonias are prized for their striking foliage, featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors. They thrive in indirect light and are perfect for indoor settings.
- Fibrous-Rooted Begonias: These begonias are typically grown as houseplants and offer a variety of foliage textures and colors.
Consider the following factors when choosing your begonia:
- Your climate: Some begonias are better suited to specific climates than others. Wax begonias thrive in warm climates, while tuberous begonias can tolerate cooler temperatures.
- Light conditions: Begonias have varying light requirements. Wax begonias need full sun, while Rex begonias prefer shade.
- Space: Choose a begonia that will fit comfortably in your chosen growing space, whether it’s a container, garden bed, or indoor setting.
Preparing Your Planting Site
Once you’ve chosen your begonia variety, it’s time to prepare the planting site. Here’s how:
- Choose the right location: Begonias thrive in well-drained soil. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
- Amend the soil: If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
- Prepare the planting hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the begonia’s root ball and as deep as the root ball itself.
Planting Your Begonias
Now that your planting site is ready, it’s time to plant your begonias:
- Gently remove the begonia from its container: Be careful not to disturb the root ball.
- Place the begonia in the prepared hole: Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
- Backfill the hole with soil: Gently firm the soil around the roots.
- Water thoroughly: This will help settle the soil and encourage root growth.
Caring for Your Begonias
Once your begonias are planted, it’s important to provide them with proper care:
- Watering: Begonias prefer evenly moist soil but don’t like to be waterlogged. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Feed your begonias with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
- Protection from pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common begonia pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly.
Overwintering Begonias
Many begonia varieties are not frost-hardy and will need to be overwintered indoors if you live in a cold climate. Here’s how to overwinter your begonias:
- Tuberous Begonias: Dig up the tubers in the fall after the first frost. Store them in a cool, dry place until spring.
- Wax Begonias: These are typically treated as annuals and are not usually overwintered.
- Rex Begonias: These begonias can be overwintered indoors in a bright, indirect location.
A Final Flourish: Enjoying Your Begonias
With the right care and attention, your begonias will reward you with a beautiful display of color and texture. Enjoy their vibrant blooms throughout the growing season, and remember to admire their intricate foliage even when they’re not in flower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to plant begonias?
A: The best time to plant begonias is in the spring after the last frost.
Q: Can I grow begonias from seed?
A: Yes, you can grow begonias from seed, but it can be a bit more challenging than starting with a plant. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Q: How often should I water my begonias?
A: Water your begonias deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: What are some common begonia problems?
A: Common begonia problems include root rot, powdery mildew, and pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Q: Can I grow begonias in containers?
A: Absolutely! Begonias are a great choice for containers, especially wax begonias and tuberous begonias. Choose a container with drainage holes and fill it with a well-draining potting mix.
