Can Begonias Grow Outside? A Simple Guide to Success

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Choosing the Right Type of Begonia for Your Yard
3. The Most Important Rule: Watch the Temperature
4. Finding the Perfect Outdoor Spot
5. How to Plant Begonias Outdoors
6. Watering and Feeding for Best Results
7. Managing Outdoor Elements
8. What to Do When the Season Ends
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Introduction

There is something special about the way a begonia lights up a garden. Whether it is the soft, rose-like petals of a tuberous begonia or the bold, painted leaves of a Rex variety, these plants bring a tropical feel to any space. Many people think of begonias only as houseplants. However, they are actually fantastic additions to your outdoor landscape. At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy helping gardeners discover how these versatile plants can transform shady porches and garden beds into colorful retreats. If you’re ready to shop, start with our Begonia Flower Bulbs for Sale collection.

Growing begonias outside is a rewarding way to add long-lasting color from early summer right through the first frost. This guide is for anyone wondering if their backyard is a good fit for these beautiful plants. We will cover which types grow best in the ground or in pots, how to find the right light, and simple care steps for healthy growth. For a broader overview of the family, see our All About Begonias guide.

With just a few basic rules, you can successfully grow begonias outdoors all season long.

Choosing the Right Type of Begonia for Your Yard

While there are thousands of begonia species, most home gardeners choose from three main groups. Knowing which one you have helps you decide the best spot for it outside.

Tuberous Begonias

Tuberous begonias are the stars of the shade garden. They grow from a bulb-like structure called a tuber. These varieties are famous for their large, dramatic flowers that come in shades of red, pink, yellow, and orange. Because many tuberous begonias have a trailing habit, we often recommend them for hanging baskets and window boxes. They love the warm days of summer but need protection from the hot afternoon sun.

Wax Begonias

Wax begonias are some of the most reliable bedding plants you can find. You can recognize them by their glossy, succulent-like leaves and small, mounded growth habit. They are called "wax" begonias because their leaves have a shiny, waxy coating. This coating helps them hold onto moisture, making them slightly more sun-tolerant than other types. They are perfect for mass plantings along a walkway or as a colorful border in a garden bed. For more on light tolerance, see our How Sunlight Affects Plants guide.

Rex and Foliage Begonias

If you want striking color without relying on flowers, Rex begonias are the answer. These are grown primarily for their incredible leaves. You will see patterns of silver, purple, burgundy, and emerald green. While they are often kept as houseplants, they thrive outside in the humid, warm air of summer. They prefer deep shade and consistent moisture to keep their fancy foliage looking its best.

Cane Begonias (Angel Wing)

Cane begonias have long, upright stems that look a bit like bamboo. The "Angel Wing" variety is the most famous, named for its long, pointed leaves that often feature silver spots. These can grow quite large and make excellent focal points in large outdoor containers. They are sturdy and stand up well to light breezes. If you want to grow them outdoors, see our Can Angel Wing Begonias Be Planted Outside? guide.

Key Takeaway: Match the begonia type to your garden's layout. Tuberous types work best in baskets, wax begonias excel in garden beds, and Rex varieties add dramatic foliage to shady corners.

The Most Important Rule: Watch the Temperature

Begonias are tropical plants by nature. This means they are sensitive to cold and do not tolerate frost. The most common mistake is putting them outside too early in the spring.

The magic number for begonias is 50°F. We suggest waiting until the nighttime temperatures stay consistently above 50°F before moving your plants outdoors. If the air is still chilly, the plants may stop growing or the leaves may turn yellow. For zone guidance, use our Hardiness Zone Map.

In most parts of the US, this means waiting a few weeks after the last frost date. If a surprise cold snap is predicted, it is best to bring your pots inside or cover your garden beds with a light sheet for the night. Once the summer heat arrives, begonias will truly start to take off.

What to Do Next:

• Check your local 10-day weather forecast.
• Wait for nighttime temperatures to stay above 50°F.
• Start by placing plants in a sheltered area for a few hours a day to get them used to the outdoor air.

Finding the Perfect Outdoor Spot

"Right plant, right place" is a golden rule in gardening. For begonias, the "right place" usually involves shade. However, the amount of shade needed depends on the type of begonia and your local climate.

Managing Sunlight

Most begonias prefer filtered light or partial shade. Think of the light under a tall tree or on a porch that gets morning sun but stays cool in the afternoon.

• Morning Sun: This is the best light for most begonias. It is bright enough to encourage blooming but cool enough that it won't scorched the leaves.
• Afternoon Sun: Avoid this if possible. In most regions, the sun between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM is too intense. It can cause the leaves to turn brown and crispy at the edges.
• Deep Shade: Rex begonias and some tuberous types thrive in full shade. If a spot is too dark, you might notice the plant becoming "leggy," meaning the stems grow long and thin as they reach for light.

Wind Protection

Begonias often have brittle stems and heavy flowers. A strong wind can easily snap a beautiful branch. When planting outside, look for a spot that is sheltered by a fence, a wall, or other sturdy plants. This is especially important for hanging baskets, which can swing and hit nearby structures during a storm.

Drainage is Essential

Begonias love moisture, but they hate sitting in soggy soil. Whether you plant them in the ground or in a pot, the water must be able to move away from the roots.

• In Pots: Always use a container with drainage holes. A high-quality, lightweight potting mix works best.
• In the Ground: If your garden has heavy clay soil that stays wet, try planting begonias in raised beds or mounds to improve drainage.

Key Takeaway: Aim for a sheltered spot that receives gentle morning sun and has excellent drainage. This combination prevents leaf burn and root rot.

How to Plant Begonias Outdoors

Once the weather is warm and you have picked your spot, it is time to plant. Taking a few extra minutes to plant at the right depth will pay off with a healthier plant all summer.

Planting in Containers

Containers are the most popular way to grow begonias outside. They allow you to control the soil quality and move the plants if the sun gets too intense. For container-friendly options, take a look at Begonia Upright Double Roseform Orange.

1. Fill your pot with fresh potting soil. Avoid using soil from the garden, as it is often too heavy and may contain pests.
2. Dig a hole that is the same size as the current root ball.
3. Gently remove the plant from its nursery pot. If the roots are tightly coiled, gently loosen them with your fingers.
4. Set the plant in the hole. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil. Planting too deep can cause the stems to rot.
5. Water gently to settle the soil.

Planting in Garden Beds

Begonias make beautiful mass plantings. They provide a carpet of color that lasts for months. If you want a long-blooming summer display, see our Non Stop Begonias collection.

1. Loosen the soil in your planting area to a depth of about 6 inches.
2. If your soil is sandy or lacks nutrients, mix in some compost or peat moss.
3. Space wax begonias about 6 to 8 inches apart. Larger tuberous or cane varieties may need 12 to 18 inches of space.
4. Follow the same depth rule as containers: keep the base of the plant level with the soil surface.

Planting Tubers Directly

If you are starting with dormant tubers from us at Longfield Gardens, you can start them indoors in early spring or plant them outside once the soil is warm. Our How to Start Tuberous Begonias Indoors guide walks through the early-start process.

1. Look for the "hollow" or indented side of the tuber. This side faces up.
2. Place the tuber in the soil and cover it with only about an inch of soil.
3. Be patient! Tubers can take a few weeks to sprout, especially if the soil is still warming up.

Watering and Feeding for Best Results

Watering is the part of begonia care that requires the most attention. Because begonias have fleshy stems, they store a little bit of water, which makes them slightly more resilient than delicate ferns. However, they still need a consistent schedule.

The "Top Two Inches" Rule

Instead of watering on a strict calendar, check the soil with your finger. If the top two inches of soil feel dry, it is time to water. If the soil is still damp, wait another day.

• Morning is Best: Water your plants in the morning. This allows any water that splashes on the leaves to dry during the day. Wet leaves at night can lead to mildew or fungus.
• Aim for the Soil: Try to pour water directly onto the soil rather than over the top of the plant. This keeps the foliage dry and healthy.
• Adjust for Heat: On very hot or windy days, pots and hanging baskets may need water every day. Plants in the ground usually need water less often.

Feeding Your Begonias

Begonias are "heavy feeders," which means they need plenty of nutrients to keep producing those beautiful flowers and leaves.

• At Planting: You can mix a slow-release fertilizer into the soil when you first plant them.
• During the Season: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer about once every two to four weeks. A "balanced" fertilizer has equal numbers on the label, such as 10-10-10.
• For More Blooms: If you are growing tuberous begonias, a fertilizer slightly higher in phosphorus can help encourage more flower production.

Key Takeaway: Consistency is key. Water when the top of the soil feels dry and provide regular nutrients to keep the plants vibrant all summer long.

Managing Outdoor Elements

Growing outside means your plants will deal with nature. While begonias are generally easy-care, a few common outdoor factors are worth watching.

Heavy Rain

A light rain is great for the garden, but a heavy summer downpour can be tough on begonias. Large flowers can get waterlogged and droop, and very wet soil can lead to root issues. If you know a big storm is coming, move your containers under a roof or porch. For plants in the ground, ensure your mulch is not piled too high against the stems, which can trap too much moisture.

Wildlife

One benefit of begonias is that they are generally not the first choice for deer and rabbits. Most gardeners find that these animals leave begonias alone in favor of other plants. However, if your local wildlife is very hungry, they may still take a nibble. Squirrels and chipmunks may also occasionally dig in pots. Placing your pots on stands or using a light decorative gravel on the soil surface can help discourage digging.

Pests

In the garden, you might see slugs or snails, especially in shady, damp areas. They like to chew small holes in the leaves. To prevent this, keep the area around your plants free of fallen leaves and debris. If you see signs of chewing, you can use organic snail bait or simply move your pots to a higher surface.

Toxicity Note

It is important to remember that begonias are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if eaten. The most toxic part of the plant is the underground portion (the tubers or roots). If you have curious pets that like to nibble on greenery, it is best to keep your begonias in hanging baskets or on high plant stands where they are out of reach.

What to Do When the Season Ends

As summer winds down and the first frost approaches, you have to decide what to do with your begonias. Since they cannot survive freezing temperatures, you have a few easy options.

Treat Them as Annuals

Many gardeners choose to simply enjoy their begonias for the season and then compost them after the first frost kills the foliage. This is a simple, stress-free way to garden. You can start fresh with new varieties and colors next spring.

Bring Containers Indoors

If you have a favorite Rex or Cane begonia, you can bring the whole pot inside for the winter.

1. Bring the plant in before the outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F.
2. Check the plant thoroughly for any hitchhiking insects.
3. Place it in a bright room, but away from direct heat vents.
4. Reduce your watering, as plants grow more slowly indoors during winter. If you want a deeper look at outdoor-to-indoor care, see How to Grow an Angel Wing Begonia.

Store the Tubers

Tuberous begonias can be "put to sleep" and replanted next year. This is a great way to save money and keep your favorite colors.

1. When the leaves start to turn yellow in late fall, stop watering the plant.
2. After the first light frost browns the leaves, dig up the tubers.
3. Cut the stems off about an inch above the tuber.
4. Let the tubers dry in a cool, dark spot for a few days.
5. Store them in a box of peat moss or sawdust in a cool, frost-free place (like a basement or closet) until spring.

What to Do Next:

• Decide if you want to save your plants or start fresh next year.
• If saving them, mark your calendar for the first frost date.
• Clean out your storage boxes and buy a bit of peat moss for tuber storage.

Conclusion

Begonias are a wonderful choice for adding color and texture to the shady parts of your yard. Whether you choose the massive blooms of tuberous varieties or the reliable color of wax begonias, these plants prove that you don't need a full-sun garden to have a beautiful landscape. By simply waiting for warm weather, providing a bit of shade, and ensuring the soil drains well, you can enjoy a tropical look all season long.

At Longfield Gardens, we believe that every gardener can find success with these stunning plants. They are forgiving, beautiful, and offer one of the best returns on your gardening time. If you’re comparing options, our Begonia Flower Bulbs for Sale collection is a good place to start.

"The secret to beautiful begonias is simply mimicking their tropical home: keep them warm, give them soft light, and never let them sit in a puddle."

Ready to start your own shade garden? Look for a variety of begonias that fit your style and give them a try this season. You might just find they become your new favorite outdoor tradition.

FAQ

Can begonias grow in full sun?

Most begonias prefer shade or partial sun. However, some wax begonias with bronze-colored leaves are bred to handle more sun than the green-leaf varieties. In northern climates with cooler summers, begonias can often tolerate more direct light than they can in the hot, humid South. Always check the specific tag on your plant, but when in doubt, "part shade" is the safest choice.

How often should I water begonias outside?

There is no set schedule because weather and pot size change how fast soil dries. Use the "finger test" by sticking your finger into the soil. If the top two inches are dry, give them a deep soak. In the heat of summer, containers might need water every day, while garden beds usually need it every few days. Always ensure the water can drain out so the roots don't stay soggy. For more light and placement guidance, see our Are Begonias a Shade Plant? guide.

Why are my begonia leaves turning brown on the edges?

Brown, crispy edges are usually a sign of either too much sun or too little water. If the plant is in direct afternoon sun, try moving it to a shadier spot. If the light seems right, you may need to water more frequently. Occasionally, brown edges can also be caused by very dry air or wind, which "wick" moisture away from the leaves faster than the plant can replace it.

Do I need to remove dead flowers from my begonias?

Many modern begonias, like wax begonias and some hybrid types, are "self-cleaning," meaning the old flowers fall off on their own. However, for tuberous begonias, removing the spent blooms (a process called deadheading) can help the plant look tidier and may encourage it to produce more flowers. It also helps prevent old petals from rotting on the leaves, which keeps the plant healthier.