Begonia Flower Bulbs Caring and Growing

Here's a comprehensive guide to planting and caring for begonias:

1. Types of Begonias

Before planting, identify the type of begonia you want to grow. The main types are:

  • Tuberous begonias: Known for their large, showy flowers.
  • Fibrous-rooted begonias: Includes wax begonias and cane begonias (e.g., angel wings).
  • Rhizomatous begonias: Grown for their decorative foliage.

2. Choosing a Planting Location

  • Light: Begonias prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Tuberous begonias thrive in partial shade, while wax begonias can tolerate more sun.
  • Temperature: Ideal temperatures are 60–75°F (15–24°C). Avoid frost or extreme heat.
  • Soil: Use a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A mix for African violets or a combination of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss works well.

3. Planting Begonias

From Tubers:

  1. Start tubers indoors in late winter or early spring.
  2. Plant tubers in a shallow tray with the concave side up, just barely covered with soil.
  3. Water lightly and place in a warm, bright spot.
  4. Transplant to pots or garden beds once shoots are 2–3 inches tall.

From Plants:

  1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball.
  2. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
  3. Backfill and water gently.

4. Watering

  • Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
  • Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
  • Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

5. Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the growing season.
  • Tuberous begonias benefit from a fertilizer high in phosphorus for flowering.

6. Pruning and Maintenance

  • Remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy.
  • Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth.
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

7. Pests and Diseases

  • Common pests: Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Diseases: Powdery mildew and root rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.

8. Overwintering

For tuberous begonias:

  1. After the first frost, dig up the tubers.
  2. Allow them to dry, then store in a cool, dry place in peat moss or sand.
  3. Replant in spring.

For fibrous and rhizomatous begonias:

  • These types are often grown as houseplants and can be kept indoors year-round.