Keep in mind that all types of begonias can be grown from seed. Once they develop roots, they can be … This group of warm-loving plants was originally found in the forest understory in tropical and subtropical areas. Tubers can be started indoors by placing the tubers, hollow side up, 1 inch apart in a shallow tray with moist potting mix. Whichever way you choose to grow begonias, the instructions below will be the same! . The seed-started begonias tend to be a bit smaller and difficult to grow, while bulb begonias are sturdier and larger plants. Yellow flowers; green foliage with prominent light-colored veins. var theDate=new Date() Provide it with light shade, rich well-drained soil, ample water, and plenty of fertilizer—and you’ll be rewarded with stunning flowers and foliage. Use upright varieties with unique foliage for a container centerpiece. How to Plant Place the rounded side of the begonia tuber facing down in well-drained potting soil. Wait to repot until the container is filled with roots. Although typically on the smaller side, begonia plants pack a big punch of color and interest. This will to help prevent stress, which causes the leaves to drop. In cooler climates, you can do this in fall as a clean-up before bringing them inside for the winter. To plant non-stop begonias in a container, fill a clean planting container with humus rich potting soil. These plants are grown almost exclusively … They bloom best with short days and cool temperatures, and will often bloom for up to six months. Wax begonias are not as affected by day length as tuberous begonias, but still grow and bloom more abundantly when grown under 14-hour days. Cuttings may be propagated for additional plants. Begonias are popular in flowerbeds, hanging baskets, as container plants on a patio or deck, and as indoor house plants. Start Indoors For Best Blooms Step 5: Plant the Sprouts. Wax begonias make a colorful, compact edging for flower beds. Transplant the tubers to a 5 inch diameter pot once the stems are 1 inch tall. Select a type of begonia to plant. First, always plant begonia corms concave side up (depression on top) either slightly above or level with the compost/soil surface. They are not toxic to humans, although may cause allergic reactions. For earlier blooms, start your begonias indoors, eight weeks before the last frost date. For sunnier locations, try a dark-leaved variety or one that specifies improved sun tolerance, like Surefire® Rose. For general growing purposes, apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer once a month in the growing season. Not only are tuberous Begonias easy to grow, but they can exhibit an upright or trailing growth habit depending on the variety, making them perfect for a wide range of displays. Plants will die back completely in the fall and reappear in late spring the following year. Bloom times may also vary if grown indoors and some types bloom all year. In warmer climates, this is best done in spring. Place the tray in a dark room and water just enough to keep the potting mix moist, but not soggy. Transplant the begonia plants to the garden bed or to outdoor planting containers after the danger of frost. Plant wax begonia transplants 6 to 8 inches apart and others according to their mature size. Now that you know how to grow begonias, you can be on your way to having a garden full of beautiful flowers. If there is still loose soil, allow the begonia to grow more. Sometimes called painted-leaf begonias or fancy-leaf begonias, these plants are known for their showy, sometimes jaw-dropping leaf coloration. Plant in a location where they will have good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew. Start decreasing water in late summer to early fall and trim back foliage when it starts to yellow. An eye-catching choice for a container ‘spiller.’ Shown here peeking out from under Illusion® Emerald Lace sweet potato vine. Water often and make sure soil is always moist. The largest class, rhizomatous begonias are distinguished by relatively thick stems, or rhizomes, that grow horizontally near the soil surface and sprout new roots and leaves. Scarlet-orange flowers, medium green leaves. All in all, begonias are not hard to grow and they're very easy to grow! Planting, growing and caring for these shade garden and houseplant superstars, Sign up for weekly gardening inspiration and design tips. When the plant’s roots hold all of the soil, it’s time for a transplant. As with other types of bulbs, a begonia tuber is filled with stored food energy that the young plant will use to fuel its growth.