Introduction
Finding the perfect plant to brighten up a shady corner of the yard is one of the most rewarding moments for any gardener. Begonias are the ultimate solution for those quiet, dim spaces, offering a lush display of tropical-looking foliage and flowers that bloom consistently from early summer until the first frost. At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy these versatile plants because they thrive in the places where many other flowers struggle, bringing vibrant reds, soft pinks, and cheerful yellows to porches, patios, and garden borders.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to plant begonia tubers and nursery starts. Whether you are looking to fill a hanging basket with trailing blooms or want to edge a walkway with tidy mounds of color, we have the practical steps to help you succeed. By the end of this article, you will feel confident choosing a location, preparing your soil, and giving your begonias the care they need to flourish all season long. For shipping timing, it also helps to check Longfield Gardens’ Shipping Information before you plant.
Choosing the Right Begonia for Your Space
Before you dig your first hole, it is helpful to understand the two most common types of begonias you will find for the home garden. Each type has a slightly different growth habit and planting requirement. Matching the variety to your specific garden goals is the first step toward a successful growing season.
Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias grow from a thick, potato-like structure called a tuber. These are the stars of the shade garden, known for their large, rose-like blooms and dramatic colors. Some varieties grow upright, reaching about 12 to 18 inches tall, while others have a "pendula" or trailing habit that makes them ideal for hanging baskets and window boxes. These begonias are usually started indoors in late winter or early spring to give them a head start on the growing season. If you are planning around your climate, the Hardiness Zone Map is a useful place to start.
Wax Begonias
Wax begonias are often sold as small nursery starts in flats. They are prized for their waxy, succulent-like leaves and their ability to form dense, colorful mounds. While they are smaller than tuberous varieties—usually staying under 12 inches—they are incredibly prolific bloomers. They are also slightly more tolerant of sunlight than their tuberous cousins, making them a great choice for areas that get a bit of morning sun.
Rex and Foliage Begonias
While many people plant begonias for the flowers, varieties like Rex begonias are grown primarily for their incredible leaves. These plants feature swirls of silver, purple, burgundy, and forest green. They add a sophisticated texture to mixed containers and can even be brought indoors as houseplants when the weather turns cold.
Key Takeaway Select tuberous begonias for large, showy flowers in deep shade, and choose wax begonias for low-maintenance mounds in areas with mixed light.
Finding the Best Location
Begonias are famous for their love of shade, but "shade" can mean many things in a home landscape. Getting the light and soil conditions right will ensure your plants stay healthy and produce the maximum number of flowers.
Understanding Light Requirements
Most begonias prefer filtered light or partial shade. In the gardening world, "partial shade" usually means about three to four hours of sun per day, ideally in the cool morning hours. Avoid placing begonias in spots that receive harsh, direct afternoon sun. The intense heat of the midday sun can scorch their tender leaves and cause the flowers to wilt or drop.
If you have a very dark corner under a large tree or a covered porch, tuberous begonias will be your best friend. They can bloom beautifully even with very little direct sunlight, provided the area is bright enough to read a book in during the day. For more help matching light to plant needs, see Do Begonias Grow in Sun or Shade?.
Checking for Drainage
The most important rule for planting begonias is to ensure they have good drainage. Drainage refers to how quickly water moves through the soil. Begonias have fleshy stems and roots that hold a lot of water. If they sit in soggy, waterlogged soil for too long, they can easily develop rot.
To test your soil, observe it after a heavy rain. If puddles remain for more than five or six hours, the soil is likely too heavy in clay. You can improve drainage by adding organic matter like compost or peat moss, or you can choose to plant your begonias in raised beds or containers where you have more control over the soil quality.
Protection from Wind
Because begonias have succulent-like stems, they can be somewhat brittle. Tuberous varieties with large, heavy flowers are particularly susceptible to breaking in high winds. Choose a site that is protected from strong gusts, such as near a fence, a wall, or tucked among sturdier shrubs.
Preparing the Soil for Success
Healthy plants start with healthy soil. Begonias are "heavy feeders," which means they need plenty of nutrients to keep up their non-stop blooming through the summer months.
Improving Garden Beds
If you are planting directly into the ground, take the time to loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 to 8 inches. Mix in a 2-inch layer of compost or well-rotted manure. This adds essential nutrients and improves the soil texture. Begonias prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil, which is standard for most garden beds.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
For containers and hanging baskets, avoid using garden soil. Garden soil is too heavy and can compress in a pot, cutting off oxygen to the roots. Instead, use a high-quality, professional-grade potting mix. These mixes are usually "soilless" and contain ingredients like peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite. This ensures the medium stays light, fluffy, and well-drained.
What to Do Next: Site and Soil Prep
- Observe your garden at different times of the day to find a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Test your soil drainage by digging a small hole and filling it with water; it should drain within an hour.
- Purchase a high-quality potting mix if you plan to use containers.
- Amend garden beds with compost to give your plants a nutrient-rich foundation.
When to Plant Begonias
Timing is everything when it comes to these tropical beauties. Begonias are very sensitive to cold and will not survive a frost.
Waiting for the Right Temperature
Do not move your begonias outdoors until the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed. A good rule of thumb is to wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60°F. If you plant them too early in cold, damp soil, the tubers may rot before they ever have a chance to grow.
Starting Tubers Indoors
Because begonias can be slow to start, many gardeners choose to "wake up" their tubers indoors about 8 to 12 weeks before the last frost. This gives the plants a head start so they are ready to bloom as soon as the summer weather arrives. Place the tubers in a shallow tray of moist potting mix in a warm, bright room. Once they have several leaves and the outdoor weather is warm, they can be transplanted to their permanent home.
Step-by-Step: How to Plant Begonia Tubers
Planting begonia tubers is a simple process, but there is one detail you must get right: which side faces up.
Step 1: Identify the Top
Begonia tubers have a distinct shape. One side is rounded, and the other side has a slight hollow or indentation. The indented side is the top. This is where the stems and leaves will emerge. If you look closely, you might even see small pink or white "eyes" or buds starting to grow in that hollow.
Step 2: Dig the Hole
In a garden bed or container, dig a shallow hole. You do not need to plant begonia tubers very deep. In fact, planting them too deep is a common cause of failure.
Step 3: Position the Tuber
Place the tuber in the hole with the hollow side facing up. Gently press it into the soil. You only want to cover the tuber with about 1/2 inch to 1 inch of soil. If you are starting them indoors, some gardeners leave the very top of the tuber exposed until the sprouts are well-established.
Step 4: Spacing
Space your tubers about 8 to 12 inches apart. This gives the plants enough room to grow and ensures there is plenty of air circulation between them. Good airflow is important for preventing fungal issues like powdery mildew later in the season.
Step 5: Water Lightly
After planting, water the area lightly. You want the soil to be moist but not saturated. Over-watering at this early stage, before the plant has roots to soak up the moisture, can lead to rot.
Key Takeaway Always plant begonia tubers with the indented side facing up and cover them with no more than an inch of soil for the best results.
How to Plant Begonia Nursery Starts
If you are starting with wax begonias or other nursery plants in plastic cells, the process is slightly different than planting tubers.
Preparing the Plant
Gently squeeze the sides of the nursery pot to loosen the root ball. Turn the plant sideways and slide it out. If the roots are circling the bottom of the pot (known as being "root-bound"), use your fingers to gently tease them outward. This encourages the roots to grow into the surrounding soil rather than continuing to grow in a circle.
Setting the Depth
Dig a hole that is the same depth as the nursery container. When you set the begonia in the hole, the top of the root ball should be level with the surface of the surrounding soil. Planting too deep can cause the stems to rot, while planting too shallow can cause the roots to dry out.
Backfilling and Firming
Fill the space around the roots with soil and press down gently with your hands to remove any large air pockets. You don't need to pack the soil tightly; just a light firming is enough to stabilize the plant.
Watering In
Give your new plants a good drink of water immediately after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots and reduces transplant shock.
Growing Begonias in Containers and Hanging Baskets
Begonias are among the most popular choices for container gardening because they stay relatively compact and bloom reliably. If you are deciding where to plant them, our Begonia Non Stop Mix - Bulk Offer is a good example of the kind of tuberous begonias that work well in mixed displays.
Choosing a Container
Make sure your pot has at least one large drainage hole in the bottom. For trailing tuberous begonias, a hanging basket is a perfect choice. For upright varieties, a classic ceramic or plastic pot works well. If you are using a terracotta pot, keep in mind that the clay is porous and will dry out faster than plastic or glazed ceramic.
The "Thriller, Filler, Spiller" Method
You can create a professional-looking container display using the "thriller, filler, spiller" technique.
- Thriller: Use a tall, upright begonia or a foliage plant like a fern in the center.
- Filler: Surrounding the center plant with mounding wax begonias provides a dense carpet of color.
- Spiller: Plant trailing begonias or creeping Jenny around the edges to cascade over the sides of the pot.
What to Do Next: Planting Steps
- Identify the indented side of your begonia tubers before placing them in the soil.
- Plant tubers 1/2 inch deep and 10 inches apart.
- Check that nursery starts are planted level with the soil surface.
- Water immediately but gently to settle the soil without drowning the roots.
Caring for Your Begonias
Once your begonias are in the ground, they are relatively low-maintenance. However, a little regular attention will keep them looking their best through the hottest parts of the summer.
Watering Correctly
The golden rule for begonia care is "moist but not soggy." We recommend the "finger test." Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. If it still feels damp, wait another day or two.
When you water, try to aim for the base of the plant rather than spraying the leaves. Wet foliage can encourage diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot. In the height of summer, container-grown begonias may need water every day, while those in the ground may only need it twice a week.
Fertilizing for Blooms
Because begonias bloom so much, they use up soil nutrients quickly. We suggest using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks throughout the growing season. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dilution. This steady supply of food ensures the plant has the energy to keep producing new flower buds.
Deadheading and Grooming
"Deadheading" is the process of removing faded flowers. Many modern begonia varieties, especially wax begonias, are "self-cleaning," meaning the old flowers drop off on their own. However, tuberous begonias benefit from manual deadheading. Simply pinch off the spent blooms to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage more flowers.
If your plants become "leggy" or stretched out mid-summer, do not be afraid to pinch back the stems. Removing the top inch of growth will encourage the plant to branch out and become bushier.
Common Challenges and Easy Wins
Even the best gardeners run into a few hiccups now and then. Here is how to handle the most common begonia issues with ease.
Powdery Mildew
This looks like a dusting of white flour on the leaves. It usually happens when the air is humid and there isn't enough airflow around the plants. To prevent this, make sure you follow our spacing recommendations. If you see it appearing, try moving container plants to a slightly breezier spot or thinning out nearby plants to let the air circulate.
Leggy Growth
If your begonias are growing very tall and thin with few flowers, they are likely not getting enough light. They are "stretching" to find the sun. Try moving them to a location that gets a bit more filtered light.
Dropping Buds
Sometimes begonias will drop their flower buds before they even open. This is usually a sign of stress, often caused by extreme heat or inconsistent watering. If a heatwave is in the forecast, make sure your plants stay well-hydrated and consider moving containers into a more shaded spot until the temperature drops.
Planning for Next Year
As the summer winds down and the first frost approaches, you have a choice to make. While many gardeners treat begonias as annuals and replace them each year, tuberous begonias can actually be saved and replanted next spring.
Overwintering Tubers
When the foliage begins to turn yellow in the autumn, stop watering the plant. After the first light frost kills the top growth, dig up the tubers. Cut off the stems about an inch above the tuber and let them dry in a cool, shaded place for a few days.
Once dry, brush off the excess soil and store the tubers in a box of peat moss or sawdust. Keep them in a cool, dark, dry place—like a basement or crawlspace—where the temperature stays between 40°F and 50°F. Next spring, you can start the cycle all over again! our team at Longfield Gardens finds that tubers often grow larger and more impressive each year they are overwintered. If you want to learn more about planning and timing, visit Longfield Gardens’ Learn section.
Conclusion
Learning how to plant begonia is a fantastic way to bring life and light to the shaded parts of your yard. These plants are remarkably rewarding, offering a long season of color with relatively little effort. By focusing on the basics—choosing the right spot, ensuring excellent drainage, and planting at the correct depth—you can enjoy a stunning display that lasts from the first warm days of June until the autumn chill arrives.
At Longfield Gardens, we want every gardener to feel the pride of a successful bloom. Whether you are planting a single pot for your front porch or a massive border along a shaded walk, begonias are a reliable and beautiful choice. If you want to learn more about the company behind the plants, see About Us.
- Wait for warm weather (60°F nights) before planting outdoors.
- Plant tubers with the hollow side up, just below the soil surface.
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and feed regularly.
- Protect plants from intense afternoon sun and high winds.
Your garden should be a place of relaxation and beauty. Start with high-quality tubers or plants, give them a comfortable home in the shade, and watch as they transform your space into a lush, floral retreat.
FAQ
Which way do I plant a begonia tuber?
Begonia tubers should be planted with the indented or "hollowed-out" side facing up toward the sky. The rounded, smooth side should face down into the soil. This hollow area is where the new stems and leaves will emerge as the plant begins to grow.
Do begonias need a lot of sunlight to bloom?
No, begonias are actually one of the best plants for shade. While they need "bright indirect light" to produce flowers, they should be protected from harsh, direct afternoon sun, which can burn their leaves. A spot with morning sun and afternoon shade is often the ideal balance for most varieties.
How deep should I plant begonia tubers?
Begonia tubers should be planted very shallowly. Dig a hole just deep enough so that when the tuber is placed inside, it is covered by only 1/2 inch to 1 inch of soil. Planting them too deep can lead to the tuber rotting or the sprouts failing to reach the surface.
Can I grow begonias in pots and hanging baskets?
Yes, begonias are excellent candidates for containers and hanging baskets. Because they have a relatively shallow root system and many varieties have a trailing growth habit, they thrive in pots. Just ensure your container has adequate drainage holes so the soil does not stay overly wet.
