Introduction
Few plants offer the same combination of vibrant color and elegant foliage as the begonia. Whether you have been enjoying a potted begonia on your windowsill or you are eyeing those beautiful tubers in a catalog, you might wonder if they can handle the transition to your garden beds or patio. The prospect of filling your shaded garden spots with brilliant reds, soft pinks, and cheerful yellows is one of the true joys of the spring planning season.
At Longfield Gardens, we want every gardener to feel confident when moving their plants into the fresh air and sunshine. Begonias are remarkably versatile and can absolutely be planted outside in almost every climate during the warmer months. They are fantastic for adding a tropical feel to northern landscapes or providing reliable color in southern shade gardens.
This guide is designed for home gardeners who want to know exactly when and how to move these beautiful plants outdoors. We will cover the specific temperature requirements, the best locations for different varieties, and how to ensure your plants thrive from late spring through the first frost. By following a few simple steps, you can enjoy a spectacular display of begonias in your own backyard.
The Short Answer: Yes, Begonias Love the Outdoors
Begonias are tropical and subtropical plants by nature. In their native environments, they grow in forest understories and along tropical hillsides where they enjoy warmth and filtered light. This means they are perfectly suited for outdoor life during the summer months in the United States.
While they can be grown as year-round houseplants, they often show their best growth when they spend the summer outside. The increased airflow and natural light levels usually lead to more robust stems and a higher volume of flowers. However, because they are tender perennials, they cannot tolerate frost. Success depends entirely on your local weather and the specific type of begonia you are growing.
Most gardeners treat begonias as annuals, planting them in late spring and letting them go once the cold returns. Others choose to bring them back inside or store the tubers for the winter. Either way, the "outdoor season" for a begonia is the highlight of its growing cycle.
Identifying Your Begonia Type
Before you move a plant outside, it helps to know which type of begonia you have. Different varieties have different preferences for light and moisture. Understanding these differences ensures you put the right plant in the right place.
Tuberous Begonias
These are the showstoppers often grown from bulbs (tubers). They produce large, dramatic flowers that can look like roses or camellias. Tuberous begonias are famous for their brilliant colors and are often used in hanging baskets or shade borders. They prefer cooler summer nights and consistent moisture without being waterlogged.
Wax Begonias
Wax begonias are the most common "bedding" plants. You will see them in mass plantings at parks and in garden borders. They have waxy, succulent-like leaves that are either green or bronze. These are the most sun-tolerant of the group and are very easy for beginners to grow.
Rex and Rhizomatous Begonias
These types are grown primarily for their incredible foliage. Their leaves can feature swirls of silver, purple, burgundy, and emerald green. While they do bloom, the flowers are usually secondary to the dramatic leaves. They are excellent for adding texture to outdoor containers in deep shade.
Cane Begonias
Often called "Angel Wing" begonias because of the shape of their leaves, these plants grow on upright, bamboo-like stems. They can get quite tall and produce beautiful clusters of drooping flowers. They are very popular as patio plants in large decorative pots.
Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Location
Success with begonias starts with matching the plant to the conditions in your yard. While most people think of begonias as "shade plants," their light needs actually vary.
Managing Sunlight
Most begonias prefer "dappled" or "filtered" sunlight. This is the kind of light you find under a leafy tree or on a porch with a lattice screen.
- Shade Lovers: Tuberous begonias and Rex begonias generally need protection from the hot afternoon sun. Too much direct light can scorch their leaves and cause flowers to wilt. A spot that gets gentle morning sun and afternoon shade is often the sweet spot.
- Sun Tolerant: Wax begonias with bronze leaves are surprisingly hardy in the sun. In northern climates, they can often handle full sun if they receive enough water. In the South, even these varieties appreciate some afternoon relief.
For additional guidance, see where to plant begonias for the best blooms.
Soil and Drainage
Begonias have relatively shallow root systems and are sensitive to "wet feet." This means they need soil that holds moisture but allows excess water to drain away quickly. If you are planting in the ground, ensure the area doesn't stay soggy after a rain.
If your soil is heavy clay, it is best to plant your begonias in raised beds or containers. We recommend using a high-quality potting mix for all container-grown begonias to ensure the roots stay healthy and aerated.
Key Takeaway: Match your begonia to the light. Bronze-leaf wax begonias can handle more sun, while tuberous and Rex varieties prefer dappled shade and protection from the midday heat.
Timing Your Move: The 50-Degree Rule
The most common reason for a begonia to struggle outdoors is being planted too early. Because they are tropical, they are very sensitive to cold temperatures. Even if there isn't a frost, chilly nights can stunt their growth or cause them to drop their leaves.
We suggest waiting until the danger of frost has completely passed and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F. In many parts of the country, this means waiting until late May or early June. If the soil is still cold to the touch, the plant will sit idle. Waiting for warm soil and warm nights leads to much faster growth and better blooming.
If you are eager to get started, you can start tuberous begonias indoors in pots about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. This gives them a head start so they are ready to bloom shortly after they move outside. However, you must still wait for the warm weather before the pots move to the patio.
How to Harden Off Your Begonias
If your begonias have been living inside your house or were recently purchased from a greenhouse, you cannot put them directly into the full sun and wind. They need a transition period called "hardening off." This process allows the plant to toughen its leaf cuticles to handle the outdoor environment.
- Day 1-2: Place the plants in a fully shaded, sheltered spot for just 2 or 3 hours, then bring them back inside.
- Day 3-4: Increase their time outside to 5 or 6 hours. Ensure they are protected from strong winds.
- Day 5-7: Leave them out all day in their permanent location, but bring them in at night if the temperature is expected to dip.
- Day 8: If the weather is warm, they are now ready to stay outside permanently.
This slow introduction prevents "leaf scald," which looks like white or silvery bleached spots on the leaves. It also prevents the brittle stems of tuberous begonias from snapping in a sudden breeze.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Tuberous Begonias
If you are planting tuberous begonias from Longfield Gardens, you are starting with a powerhouse of stored energy. These tubers are ready to grow as soon as the conditions are right.
Starting Tubers in Pots
It is often easiest to start tubers in small pots indoors and then transplant them or move the whole pot outside.
- Find the Top: Begonia tubers are usually shaped like a bowl or a saucer. The indented (hollow) side is the top where the sprouts will emerge. The rounded side is the bottom.
- Planting Depth: Place the tuber on top of moist potting soil and cover it with only about a half-inch of soil. If you bury them too deeply, they may rot before the sprouts reach the surface.
- Spacing: In containers, you can plant tubers about 4 to 6 inches apart for a full look. In the garden, space them 10 to 12 inches apart to allow for airflow.
- Initial Watering: Water once to settle the soil, then wait until you see green growth before watering heavily again.
For more detail, see this guide to how deeply begonias should be planted.
Transplanting to the Garden
Once the weather is warm, you can move your started plants into the ground. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, keeping as much soil around the roots as possible. Set it at the same depth it was growing in the pot and fill in with soil. Water gently to settle the roots.
What to do next:
- Check your local frost dates to determine your planting window.
- Purchase a high-quality, well-draining potting mix.
- Locate a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade for your tuberous begonias.
Watering Wisely Outdoors
Watering is the most important part of outdoor begonia care. Because begonias have succulent stems, they store a bit of water, which makes them slightly drought-tolerant. However, they perform best when the soil is kept "evenly moist."
The best way to tell if your begonia needs water is the finger test. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. If it feels damp, wait another day.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don't Overwater: Soggy soil is the enemy of begonias. It can lead to root rot or tuber rot. Always ensure your pots have drainage holes.
- Water the Soil, Not the Leaves: Begonias can be prone to powdery mildew if their leaves stay wet, especially in humid climates. Use a watering can with a long neck or a soaker hose to apply water directly to the base of the plant.
- Morning is Best: Watering in the morning gives the plant all day to absorb moisture and allows any accidental splashes on the leaves to dry before nightfall.
Feeding Your Begonias for Maximum Blooms
Begonias are "heavy feeders," meaning they need regular nutrients to keep producing those spectacular flowers all summer long. Because they grow so quickly, they can exhaust the nutrients in a container's soil within a few weeks.
We recommend using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. A "bloom booster" formula with a slightly higher middle number (phosphorus) can help encourage more flower production.
If you prefer a lower-maintenance approach, you can mix a slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil at planting time. This will provide a steady stream of nutrients for several months. Just remember that begonias in containers may still need a liquid "pick-me-up" by mid-August as the slow-release granules begin to wear off.
Simple Maintenance for a Tidy Garden
One of the best things about begonias is that they are relatively low-maintenance. Most modern varieties, especially wax begonias and many tuberous hybrids, are "self-cleaning." This means the old flowers fall off on their own as they fade, so you don't have to spend hours deadheading.
However, a little bit of grooming can go a long way:
- Pinching: If your cane begonias or wax begonias start to look "leggy" (long stems with few leaves), you can pinch off the tips of the stems. This encourages the plant to branch out and become bushier.
- Removing Damaged Leaves: If you see a leaf that has been torn by wind or shows signs of spotting, simply snip it off. This keeps the plant looking fresh and improves airflow.
- Support: Tuberous begonias can sometimes produce flowers so large and heavy that the stems lean. Small bamboo stakes can provide the support needed to keep the blooms upright and visible.
Protecting Begonias from Pests and Weather
Outdoor gardening always involves a bit of cooperation with nature. Begonias are generally resistant to many common pests, but there are a few things to watch for.
Managing Pests
- Slugs and Snails: These garden visitors love the succulent leaves of begonias, especially in shady, damp areas. You can protect your plants by using copper tape around pots or by keeping the area around the plants free of fallen leaves and debris where slugs like to hide.
- Deer and Rabbits: While begonias aren't the first choice for most wildlife, hungry deer or rabbits may take a nibble. If you live in an area with high wildlife pressure, consider placing your begonias on a high porch or using a natural repellent spray.
Weather Protection
Strong winds and heavy rain can be hard on the brittle stems of tuberous begonias. If a severe storm is in the forecast, it is a good idea to move your hanging baskets and containers to a protected area like a garage or a covered porch. For plants in the ground, a temporary stake can prevent them from snapping in high winds.
For cascading plants, explore the Hanging Begonias collection.
Bringing Begonias Back Inside for Winter
As the summer winds down and the first frost approaches, you have a choice to make. If you live in USDA zones 9 through 11, your begonias might survive outside year-round. However, for the rest of us, the cold will eventually end the outdoor season.
Saving Tuberous Begonias
You can save the tubers of your favorite plants to grow again next year.
- Stop Feeding: In late summer, stop fertilizing to let the plant naturally slow down.
- Lift After Frost: Wait until the first light frost kills the foliage. This sends a signal to the tuber to go dormant.
- Dry and Store: Dig up the tubers and let them dry in a cool, dark place for a few days. Brush off the excess soil and remove the dead stems.
- Winter Home: Store the tubers in a box of peat moss or vermiculite in a cool, dry place (about 40-50°F) until spring.
For more guidance, see how to care for begonias indoors in winter.
Moving Potted Plants Indoors
Wax begonias, Rex begonias, and Cane begonias can be brought inside to live as houseplants during the winter. Before bringing them in, check them thoroughly for any hitchhiking insects. It is often helpful to give them a gentle rinse with a hose. Place them in a bright window and reduce your watering, as they will grow much more slowly during the winter months.
Key Takeaway: You don't have to say goodbye to your begonias in the fall. Lifting tubers or moving pots indoors allows you to enjoy your favorite varieties year after year.
Creating a More Beautiful Yard with Begonias
Planting begonias outside is one of the easiest ways to bring high-impact color to the areas of your yard where other flowers might struggle. Whether you are lining a shaded walkway with wax begonias or hanging a lush tuberous begonia from a porch hook, these plants are reliable performers.
At Longfield Gardens, we believe that gardening should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By paying attention to nighttime temperatures and giving your begonias the right amount of light, you can create a stunning outdoor display. These plants may have a reputation for being "fancy," but they are truly accessible to gardeners of all skill levels.
Remember that every garden is a little bit different. Your soil, your local microclimate, and the specific weather of the season will all play a role in how your plants grow. Don't be afraid to move a pot a few feet to the left if it seems to be getting too much sun, or to adjust your watering schedule during a heatwave. Gardening is a conversation with nature, and begonias are wonderful partners in that journey.
"The secret to beautiful outdoor begonias is patience. Wait for the warmth of late spring, and the plants will reward you with months of nonstop color."
Conclusion
Begonias are an excellent choice for adding a touch of tropical elegance to your outdoor living spaces. By choosing the right variety for your light conditions and waiting for the consistent warmth of late spring, you set the stage for a successful growing season. Whether you grow them in garden beds, patio containers, or hanging baskets, their vibrant flowers and interesting foliage will provide beauty from the moment they are planted until the first frost of autumn.
- Wait for nighttime temperatures to stay above 50°F before planting.
- Harden off your plants for a week to transition to outdoor light.
- Ensure your soil or potting mix drains well to keep roots healthy.
- Feed every two weeks to maintain a heavy bloom cycle.
We invite you to explore the many colors and forms of begonia flower bulbs available at Longfield Gardens. With a little care and the right timing, you can transform your garden into a lush, colorful retreat that you will enjoy all summer long.
FAQ
What temperature is too cold for begonias to be outside?
Begonias are tropical plants and do not like temperatures below 50°F. While they can survive a brief dip into the 40s, consistent cold will stunt their growth and may lead to rot. Never leave them outside if there is a risk of frost, as the freezing temperatures will turn their succulent stems to mush.
Do begonias need full sun when they are planted outdoors?
Most begonias prefer partial shade or filtered light rather than full sun. Wax begonias with bronze leaves are the most sun-tolerant and can handle full sun in cooler, northern climates. However, tuberous begonias and Rex begonias generally require protection from the intense heat of the afternoon sun to prevent their leaves from burning.
Can I keep my begonias in pots outside all summer?
Yes, begonias are actually some of the best plants for outdoor containers and hanging baskets. Because they have shallow roots and specific drainage needs, growing them in pots allows you to control the soil quality and moisture levels more easily than in the ground. Just ensure the pots have drainage holes and that you water more frequently during hot weather.
For help with spacing in containers, see how many begonias to plant per pot.
How do I stop my outdoor begonias from wilting?
If your begonias are wilting, first check the soil moisture. They will wilt if they are too dry, but they will also wilt if they are overwatered and the roots are starting to rot. If the soil is moist and the plant is still wilting in the afternoon, it may be getting too much direct heat or sun; try moving the pot to a shadier location or providing some temporary shade.
