Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding the Different Types of Begonias
- Choosing Quality Begonia Tubers
- When to Start Your Begonias
- Finding the Perfect Spot
- How to Plant Begonia Tubers
- Essential Care and Maintenance
- Overwintering Your Begonias
- Design Ideas for the Shade Garden
- Encouraging Realistic Expectations
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Finding flowers that thrive in the shade can sometimes feel like a challenge. Many of the most vibrant blooms require hours of intense sunlight to look their best. However, begonias are the brilliant exception to this rule. These plants are the champions of the shady garden, offering lush foliage and stunning flowers in colors ranging from delicate pastels to bold, fiery reds. Whether you want to brighten up a dark corner of your porch or add texture to a woodland border, begonias are a reliable and rewarding choice.
At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy helping gardeners discover just how simple it is to achieve professional-looking results with these tropical beauties. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing begonias. We will cover the different types available, the best planting techniques, and how to keep them blooming all summer long. By focusing on a few simple basics, you can enjoy a season full of color and healthy growth.
Understanding the Different Types of Begonias
Before you get started, it is helpful to know which type of begonia you are growing. While there are thousands of species, most home gardeners choose from a few popular groups. Each has its own personality and growth habit.
Tuberous Begonias
These are the superstars of the begonia world. They grow from a thickened underground stem called a tuber. Tuberous begonias are famous for their large, rose-like flowers and their ability to bloom continuously from early summer until the first frost. They come in both upright varieties, which are perfect for garden beds, and trailing varieties that look magnificent spilling over the edges of hanging baskets.
Wax Begonias
You have likely seen wax begonias in professional landscapes or as bedding plants. They have glossy, succulent-like leaves that come in shades of green or bronze. These plants are incredibly tough and can handle a bit more sun than other types. They stay relatively compact and produce masses of small flowers in white, pink, or red.
Rex Begonias
If you love dramatic foliage, Rex begonias are for you. These are primarily grown for their leaves rather than their flowers. The foliage comes in wild patterns of silver, burgundy, purple, and green. They are often grown as houseplants, but they make excellent "thriller" plants in shaded outdoor containers during the summer.
Cane Begonias
Often called "Angel Wing" begonias because of their leaf shape, these plants have upright, bamboo-like stems. They can grow quite tall and produce beautiful clusters of drooping flowers. Many varieties also feature silver spotting on the leaves, adding extra visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom.
Choosing Quality Begonia Tubers
If you are growing tuberous begonias, your success starts with the quality of the tuber. A healthy tuber is the powerhouse that fuels the plant's growth and flowering throughout the season. When you receive your order from us, take a moment to inspect your tubers.
Look for tubers that feel heavy and firm, much like a fresh potato. Avoid any that feel mushy or excessively light and shriveled. Size also matters in this case. Larger tubers have more stored energy, which generally leads to a larger plant with more stems and a higher flower count. We provide premium begonia tubers that are ready to hit the ground running once the weather is right.
What to do next:
- Inspect your tubers for firmness and weight.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant.
- Identify the indented side of the tuber, as this is where the sprouts will emerge.
When to Start Your Begonias
Timing is one of the most important factors when learning how to grow begonias. Because these are tropical plants, they are very sensitive to cold temperatures. They will not grow in cold soil, and a light frost can easily damage or kill the foliage.
Starting Indoors for Earlier Blooms
In most parts of the United States, the growing season is relatively short. To get the most out of your begonias, we recommend starting tuberous varieties indoors about 8 to 12 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. This gives the plants a "head start" so they are already established and perhaps even blooming by the time you move them outside.
To start them indoors, use shallow trays or small pots filled with a light, damp potting mix. Once they begin to sprout and develop leaves, move them to a bright spot with indirect light. A warm room that stays above 60°F is ideal for this early growth stage.
Moving Outdoors
Wait to move your begonias outside until the nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60°F. If the air is still chilly at night, the plants may sit still and refuse to grow, or they may turn yellow. Patience is a virtue here. It is much better to wait an extra week for warm weather than to rush them out into the cold.
Finding the Perfect Spot
The key to begonia success is matching the plant's needs to the right location in your yard. This is often called "right plant, right place." Begonias have specific preferences for light and drainage that will determine how well they perform.
Light Requirements
Most begonias prefer filtered light or partial shade. Think of the light found under a tall shade tree or on a covered porch. In northern climates, they can often handle a bit of morning sun, but they should be protected from the harsh, direct rays of the afternoon. If you notice the leaves looking scorched or turning brown at the edges, the plant is likely getting too much sun. Conversely, if the stems become very long and "leggy" with few flowers, the spot might be too dark.
For a deeper look at placement, see our Where to Plant Begonias: Sun or Shade? guide.
Soil and Drainage
Begonias need soil that is rich in organic matter and, most importantly, drains well. They do not like "wet feet." If the soil stays soggy for too long, the tubers or roots can rot. If you are planting in the ground, you can improve heavy clay soil by mixing in some compost or finely ground bark. For containers, always use a high-quality potting mix rather than garden soil. Ensure your pots have plenty of drainage holes so excess water can escape easily.
How to Plant Begonia Tubers
Planting begonias is a simple process, but getting the depth and orientation right makes a big difference. Follow these steps for a successful start:
- Identify the Top: Look at the tuber and find the side with a slight indentation or "bowl" shape. This is the top. If you see tiny pink or green nubs, those are the sprouts.
- Dig a Shallow Hole: In a container or the garden, make a hole just deep enough to accommodate the tuber.
- Position the Tuber: Place the tuber in the hole with the indented side facing up. If you are worried about water sitting in the "bowl" and causing rot, you can tilt the tuber slightly to the side.
- Cover Lightly: Cover the tuber with no more than one inch of soil. Begonias do best when they are planted shallowly.
- Space Correctly: If planting multiple begonias in a large pot or garden bed, space them about 8 to 12 inches apart. This gives them room to fill out without crowding each other, which helps prevent disease by allowing air to circulate.
Key Takeaway: Plant begonia tubers with the indented side up and cover them with only an inch of soil. Proper spacing ensures the plants have enough room to breathe and grow.
Essential Care and Maintenance
Once your begonias are settled in their new home, they require regular but simple care. They are generally low-maintenance plants, but a little attention to watering and feeding will result in a much more impressive display.
Water Correctly, Not Constantly
Watering is where many gardeners make mistakes. The rule for begonias is to keep the soil moist but never soggy. Before watering, stick your finger an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. If it still feels damp, wait another day or two.
For more detailed moisture guidance, read How Much Water Does a Begonia Plant Need?.
When you water, try to aim for the base of the plant rather than wetting the leaves. Wet foliage can sometimes lead to fungal issues like powdery mildew. In the heat of summer, plants in containers will dry out much faster than those in the ground, so check your pots daily.
Feeding for Better Blooms
Because begonias bloom so prolifically, they need plenty of nutrients to keep the show going. We suggest using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Early in the spring, a fertilizer higher in nitrogen can help the foliage grow lush and green. Once you see flower buds forming, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus to encourage more blooms. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for the best results.
Grooming and Pruning
Begonias are mostly self-cleaning, meaning the old flowers will eventually fall off on their own. However, you can keep the plants looking tidy by snipping off faded blooms and any yellowing leaves. If a plant becomes too tall or "stretched out," do not be afraid to pinch back the tips of the stems. This encourages the plant to grow more side branches, resulting in a bushier, fuller appearance.
Overwintering Your Begonias
In most parts of the country (Zones 3-8), begonias are treated as annuals because they cannot survive the winter outdoors. However, you do not have to buy new tubers every year! You can save your tuberous begonias and replant them next spring.
Before planning for next year, it helps to check your local climate with our Hardiness Zone Map.
Harvesting the Tubers
When the temperatures start to drop in the fall and the foliage begins to turn yellow, stop watering the plants. After the first light frost has blackened the leaves, carefully dig up the tubers. Cut the stems back to about an inch or two above the tuber.
Storing for Winter
Gently brush off any excess soil, but do not wash them with water. Let the tubers sit in a dry, protected spot for a few days to "cure." Once they are dry, place them in a paper bag or a box filled with peat moss or vermiculite. Store them in a cool, dark place that stays around 50°F, such as a basement or crawl space. Check on them once a month during the winter to make sure they aren't shriveling up or rotting. If they look very dry, a tiny mist of water can help, but keep them mostly dry until spring.
Design Ideas for the Shade Garden
Begonias offer endless possibilities for beautifying your outdoor spaces. Their versatility makes them a favorite for both beginners and experienced garden designers.
- The Perfect Porch Companion: Use trailing tuberous begonias in hanging baskets on your front porch. They provide a warm welcome and bloom in colors that pop against the shadows of the house.
- Brightening Tree Bases: Many plants struggle to grow in the dry shade under large trees. Begonias can thrive here if you provide them with consistent water. They add a much-needed splash of color to the sea of green typically found under a canopy.
- Container Combinations: Begonias play well with others. Try planting upright begonias in the center of a large pot, surrounded by silver-leafed Dusty Miller or trailing Creeping Jenny. The contrast in colors and textures creates a professional-looking container display.
- The "Filler, Thriller, Spiller" Method: Use Rex begonias as the "thriller" (the focal point) in a pot, wax begonias as the "filler" to add bulk, and trailing tuberous begonias as the "spiller" to flow over the sides.
For foliage-focused containers, our How to Care for Rex Begonia Plants guide is a helpful next step.
Encouraging Realistic Expectations
Gardening is a partnership with nature, and results can vary based on several factors. While we provide high-quality plants and bulbs, your local weather, soil conditions, and microclimates will all play a role in how your begonias grow. Some years may be exceptionally humid, which might require you to watch more closely for mildew. Other years might be unusually hot, meaning you’ll need to water more frequently.
It is also important to remember that begonias are not instant. It can take several weeks for a tuber to sprout and even longer for the first flowers to appear. This wait is part of the joy of gardening. Watching that first tiny sprout push through the soil is a rewarding moment that marks the beginning of a beautiful season.
Simple Success Rules:
- Always check soil moisture before watering.
- Provide protection from the hot afternoon sun.
- Be patient with the early growth phase.
- Use high-quality potting mix for all container plants.
Conclusion
Growing begonias is one of the easiest ways to bring high-impact color to the shaded areas of your yard. By choosing the right variety, planting at the correct depth, and keeping an eye on moisture levels, you can enjoy these stunning flowers from early summer all the way to the first frost. At Longfield Gardens, we take pride in providing the premium begonia collection that help you create the garden of your dreams. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting your first container, begonias are a reliable choice that will reward you with beauty all season long.
- Choose the right begonia type for your specific garden goals.
- Wait for warm weather before moving plants outdoors.
- Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between sessions.
- Store tubers indoors over winter to enjoy them again next year.
"The secret to a beautiful shade garden isn't about working harder; it is about choosing the right plants like begonias that are naturally built to shine in lower light."
We invite you to explore our begonia bulbs and plants and start planning your most colorful shade garden yet. With a little bit of care and the right start, you’ll be amazed at what these plants can do for your home.
FAQ
Can begonias grow in full sun?
Most begonias prefer partial to full shade, especially in warmer climates where the afternoon sun is very intense. Wax begonias are the most sun-tolerant variety and can handle more light if they are given plenty of water. However, if you live in a very hot region, providing shade during the hottest part of the day will prevent the leaves from scorching.
How often should I fertilize my begonias?
During the active growing season, it is best to fertilize your begonias every two weeks. Using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength is a safe way to ensure they get the nutrients they need without overfeeding. Regular feeding is especially important for begonias in containers, as nutrients wash out of the soil more quickly with frequent watering.
Why are my begonia leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are usually a sign of a watering issue. Most often, it means the soil is staying too wet, which can lead to root or tuber rot. Check the drainage holes in your pot and ensure the soil isn't soggy. Less commonly, yellow leaves can be a sign that the plant needs more nutrients or is reacting to a sudden drop in temperature.
Do I need to deadhead begonias to keep them blooming?
Many modern begonia varieties, like wax begonias and some hybrids, are "self-cleaning" and do not strictly require deadheading. However, removing faded flowers from tuberous begonias can help the plant look tidier and may encourage more energy to go into new blooms. It is a simple way to keep your garden looking fresh throughout the summer.