Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Choosing the Right Begonias for Your Garden
- Where to Plant Begonia Flowers
- When to Plant Begonia Tubers
- How to Plant Tuberous Begonias Step-by-Step
- Planting Begonias in Containers and Hanging Baskets
- Starting Begonias Indoors for Early Blooms
- Ongoing Care and Maintenance
- Troubleshooting Common Growth Questions
- Digging and Storing Tubers for Winter
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Begonias are a garden favorite for a simple reason: they bring spectacular, nonstop color to the shadiest corners of your yard. Whether you are looking for the rose-like blooms of tuberous begonias or the lush, patterned leaves of foliage varieties, these plants are remarkably easy to grow. At Longfield Gardens, we love how begonia flower bulbs transform patios, window boxes, and garden beds with very little effort. They are the perfect choice for any gardener who wants high-impact results throughout the summer and into the fall.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to plant begonia flowers. This information is designed for home gardeners of all skill levels who want to enjoy a successful growing season. For a broader overview of types and care, see All About Begonias. We will cover selecting the right spot, the proper planting depth, and how to care for your plants so they thrive until the first frost.
Understanding the basics of begonia care ensures your garden remains vibrant and healthy all year long.
Choosing the Right Begonias for Your Garden
Before you get your hands in the dirt, it helps to understand which begonias you are planting. While there are thousands of varieties, most home gardeners choose from a few main groups. For upright choices, our Upright Double Begonias are a good place to start. Each type has a slightly different look and purpose in the landscape.
Tuberous Begonias
These are the superstars of the floral world. Tuberous begonias grow from a "tuber," which is a fleshy, underground storage part similar to a potato. These plants are famous for their large, ruffled blooms that look like roses or camellias. They come in two main growth habits: upright and trailing. We offer high-quality 5/6 cm tubers because larger tubers naturally produce stronger plants with more flowers.
Wax Begonias
If you have ever seen neat rows of uniform, small flowers in a public park or garden border, those were likely wax begonias. They have waxy, succulent-like leaves and produce masses of small red, pink, or white flowers. These are usually grown from fibrous roots rather than tubers. They are very reliable and can handle a bit more sun than their tuberous cousins.
Rex and Rhizomatous Begonias
These varieties are grown primarily for their stunning foliage. Their leaves can feature swirls, stripes, and metallic colors like silver, purple, and deep burgundy. While they do produce small flowers, the leaves are the main attraction. These are often kept as houseplants but can spend the summer outdoors in a shaded, humid spot.
Key Takeaway: For the biggest and boldest flowers in containers or hanging baskets, choose tuberous begonias. For consistent border color, go with wax begonias.
Where to Plant Begonia Flowers
Finding the right home for your begonias is the first step toward success. Begonias are famous for their love of shade, but they still need some light to produce their best blooms. For more light guidance, see Where to Plant Begonias: Sun or Shade?.
Lighting Requirements
Most begonias prefer filtered light or partial shade. A spot that gets about four hours of morning sun followed by afternoon shade is often ideal. In very hot climates, protection from the intense afternoon sun is vital to prevent the leaves from scorching. If you have a spot under a high-canopy tree or a covered porch, your begonias will likely be very happy there.
Soil and Drainage
The word "drainage" simply means how fast water leaves the soil. Begonias have a very important rule: they love moisture but hate being soggy. If the soil stays too wet for too long, the tubers or roots can rot.
If you are planting in the ground, look for a spot where water doesn't puddle after a rain. You can improve your soil by mixing in organic matter like compost or finely ground bark. For container gardening, always use a high-quality potting mix and ensure your pots have plenty of drainage holes in the bottom.
Air Circulation
Begonias appreciate a bit of breathing room. Good air circulation helps keep the foliage dry and prevents common issues like powdery mildew. Avoid crowding your plants too tightly against walls or other dense shrubs.
When to Plant Begonia Tubers
Timing is everything when it comes to tropical plants like begonias. They are very sensitive to cold temperatures and should never be exposed to frost.
Watching the Temperature
Wait to plant your begonias outdoors until the danger of frost has completely passed. The soil should be warm to the touch—ideally around 60°F. In most parts of the United States, this happens in late May or early June. If the nights are still dipping below 50°F, it is best to keep your plants indoors for a little longer.
Understanding Your Zone
We ship our begonia tubers based on your USDA hardiness zone. For more details on timing and delivery, see our Shipping Information. This ensures they arrive about two weeks before the ideal planting time for your specific climate. Because weather can be unpredictable, always check your local forecast before moving plants outside for the season.
The Benefits of Starting Early
If you want flowers as early as Memorial Day, you can start your tuberous begonias indoors about 8 to 12 weeks before the last frost. This gives the tubers a head start in a controlled environment so they are already growing strongly by the time the weather warms up.
What to do next:
- Check your local "last frost" date online or via a local extension service.
- Monitor your nighttime temperatures to ensure they stay consistently above 50°F.
- Prepare your pots or garden beds with fresh potting mix or compost.
How to Plant Tuberous Begonias Step-by-Step
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
Take a close look at your begonia tuber. One side will be rounded and smooth, while the other side will have a slight hollow or indentation, similar to a shallow bowl. The indented side is the top. This is where the stems and leaves will emerge. Sometimes you might even see tiny pink or green sprouts already starting to form in that hollow area.
Step 2: Prepare the Hole
If planting in a garden bed, loosen the soil to a depth of about 5 or 6 inches. For a deeper look at spacing and planting depth, see How Deep to Plant Tuberous Begonia for Best Growth. For containers, fill the pot with moist potting mix, leaving about two inches of space at the top. Dig a shallow hole that is just wide enough for the tuber.
Step 3: Set the Tuber
Place the tuber into the hole with the indented side facing up. If you live in a very rainy climate, you can tilt the tuber slightly at an angle. This prevents water from sitting in the hollow "bowl," which helps prevent rot.
Step 4: Cover and Space
Cover the tuber with no more than one inch of soil. Planting them too deep can make it harder for the sprouts to reach the surface. Space multiple tubers about 8 to 12 inches apart to give them room to grow and ensure good air circulation.
Step 5: The "Wait to Water" Rule
This is the most important tip for planting begonias. After you plant the tuber, water it once to settle the soil. Then, stop. Do not water again until you see the first green sprouts emerging from the soil. Begonia tubers are very efficient at holding moisture, and adding too much water before they have active roots is the most common cause of rot.
Planting Begonias in Containers and Hanging Baskets
Begonias are perhaps the most popular choice for shade-loving containers. For a step-by-step follow-up on basket planting, see the Hanging Begonias collection. They provide a lush, "full" look that lasts all summer.
Selecting the Right Pot
For a single begonia plant, a 6-inch pot is usually sufficient. If you want a fuller display, you can plant three tubers in a 12-inch pot. Ensure the container has drainage holes. If you are using a decorative pot without holes, use it as a "cachepot" by placing a plain plastic nursery pot inside it.
Hanging Baskets
For hanging baskets, choose trailing or "pendula" varieties. These are specifically bred to cascade over the sides of the basket. A plant like Begonia Hanging Golden Balcony looks beautiful when it begins to spill over the edges. When planting in baskets, remember that they dry out faster than garden beds, so you will need to check the moisture levels more frequently once the plants are established.
The Best Potting Mix
Avoid using garden soil in containers. It is too heavy and can harbor pests or diseases. Instead, use a lightweight, peat-based potting mix. Some gardeners like to add a handful of compost to the mix to provide a slow-moving source of nutrients.
Starting Begonias Indoors for Early Blooms
Starting your tubers indoors is an easy way to get a jump on the season. This is especially helpful in northern states where the growing season is shorter.
The Setup
You don't need a professional greenhouse to start begonias. A warm room (about 70°F) and a bright windowsill are perfect. A container-friendly variety like Begonia Upright Double Bertini is a strong candidate for an early indoor start. You can use individual small pots or a shallow tray filled with moist potting mix.
The Process
- Place the tubers in the tray or pots with the indented side up.
- Cover them with an inch of moist soil.
- Keep the soil barely damp. A spray bottle is great for misting the surface without over-saturating the tubers.
- Once the leaves appear, move the pots to a bright location with indirect light.
Moving Outdoors (Hardening Off)
Before you move your indoor-started begonias permanently outside, they need to get used to the outdoor air. This process is called "hardening off." Start by placing them in a shaded, protected spot outside for an hour or two during the day, then bring them back inside. Gradually increase their time outside over the course of a week. This prevents the leaves from getting "sunburned" or stressed by the wind.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once your begonias are planted and growing, they are relatively low-maintenance. A little bit of regular attention will keep them blooming until the first frost.
Watering Correctly
As the plants grow and the weather warms up, you will need to water more regularly. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist—like a wrung-out sponge. Stick your finger an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. A container favorite like Begonia Double Maxima Switzerland will appreciate steady moisture. Always try to water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. Wet leaves in a shaded area can lead to fungal issues.
Fertilizing for Flowers
Begonias are "heavy feeders," meaning they use a lot of energy to produce those big flowers. Start fertilizing once the plants have several sets of leaves. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer works well. We recommend following the instructions on the label, typically applying the fertilizer every two weeks. If you prefer, you can use a half-strength solution every time you water.
Grooming Your Plants
Begonias are generally "self-cleaning," which means they drop their old flowers on their own. However, you can help the plant look its best by snipping off any faded blooms or yellowing leaves. This keeps the plant tidy and encourages it to put more energy into new growth.
Dealing with "Male" and "Female" Flowers
Tuberous begonias actually produce two types of flowers on the same plant. The large, showy, double flowers are the "male" blooms. The smaller, single flowers are the "female" blooms. If you want the absolute largest flowers possible, some gardeners pinch off the smaller female flowers, but most people leave them all on for a fuller, more natural look.
Troubleshooting Common Growth Questions
Even with the best care, you might have questions as your begonias grow. Most issues are easily solved by adjusting one or two simple factors.
Why aren't my tubers sprouting?
Patience is key! Begonia tubers can be slow to wake up, sometimes taking three to four weeks to show their first green tips. Ensure they are in a warm spot (at least 70°F). If the room is too cold, the tuber will stay dormant. Check that the soil is damp but not wet; if the soil is soggy and the tuber feels soft, it may have rotted.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are often a sign of too much water. If you notice yellowing, let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings. Ensure the pot isn't sitting in a saucer of standing water. If the soil is dry and the leaves are yellowing, the plant might simply need a bit of fertilizer.
Why are the flowers falling off?
It is normal for begonias to drop old flowers, but if healthy buds are falling off before they open, it is usually due to extreme heat or inconsistent watering. Try to keep the soil moisture steady and move the plant to a cooler, more shaded spot during heatwaves.
Key Takeaway: Most begonia issues are related to water. When in doubt, check the soil moisture and ensure the plant has plenty of drainage.
Digging and Storing Tubers for Winter
Begonias are tropical perennials. If you are wondering whether they come back year after year, see Is a Begonia a Perennial Plant?. This means they can live for many years, but they cannot survive a freezing winter. If you live in USDA zones 8 or warmer, you can often leave them in the ground. For everyone else, you have a choice: treat them as annuals and plant new ones next year, or save the tubers to grow again.
When to Dig
Wait until the first light frost kills the top of the foliage, or until the leaves turn yellow naturally in the fall. This signals the plant to go dormant and store its energy in the tuber.
Preparing for Storage
- Carefully dig up the tubers, keeping the stems attached for now.
- Gently brush off most of the soil.
- Place the tubers in a dry, frost-free area (like a garage or basement) for about two weeks.
- Once the stems are completely dry, they should easily snap off the tuber.
- Store the clean tubers in a paper bag or a box filled with dry peat moss or sawdust.
Winter Conditions
The ideal storage temperature is around 50°F. You want a spot that is dark, dry, and cool but never reaches freezing. Check on your tubers once or twice during the winter to make sure they aren't shriveling up or getting moldy. In the spring, you can start the whole process over again!
Conclusion
Planting begonia flowers is one of the most rewarding ways to add color and elegance to the shaded areas of your home. By choosing high-quality tubers, planting them at the right depth with the indented side up, and being careful not to overwater early in the season, you can enjoy a stunning display of blooms for months. Whether you plant them in a traditional garden bed or a beautiful hanging basket, begonias offer a lush, tropical feel that is hard to beat.
At Longfield Gardens, we want to help you grow a garden you love. Our 100% Quality Guarantee ensures that your tubers arrive in prime condition and are true to variety. If you ever have questions about your plants, our team is here to support you.
- Wait for warm soil and nights above 50°F before planting outside.
- Plant tubers 1 inch deep with the hollow side facing up.
- Hold off on watering until you see the first green sprouts.
- Fertilize every two weeks once the plant is established.
The secret to begonia success is simple: provide plenty of shade, keep the soil moist but not wet, and enjoy the nonstop show of flowers all summer long.
FAQ
Do begonias need sun or shade?
Most begonias thrive in partial to full shade. They specifically enjoy filtered light, such as the dappled sunlight found under trees. While some varieties like wax begonias can handle more sun, a classic shade-to-part-shade option such as Begonia Upright Double Odorata White works especially well in hanging baskets and tall planters.
Which side of the begonia tuber faces up?
The "top" of a begonia tuber is the side with the indentation or hollowed-out "bowl" shape. This is where the stems will grow. The smooth, rounded side should face down into the soil. If you aren't sure, you can plant the tuber on its side, and the plant will naturally grow toward the light.
How often should I water my begonias?
After the initial planting, do not water again until you see green sprouts. Once the plant is growing, water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. For more watering details, see How Often Do You Water a Begonia Plant?. This usually means watering 2–3 times a week, though containers and hanging baskets may need more frequent watering during hot weather.
Will my begonias come back every year?
Begonias are only hardy in very warm climates (zones 9–11). If you want a quick way to check your area, use the Hardiness Zone Map. In most of the United States, they are treated as annuals or the tubers must be dug up and stored indoors for the winter. If you store the tubers in a cool, dry place, you can replant them every spring for several years of beautiful blooms.