Introduction
We love the way begonias transform a shady corner into a vibrant oasis of color and texture. These tropical beauties are famous for their lush foliage and showy blooms, making them a favorite for gardeners looking to brighten up areas where other flowers might struggle. While many people think of them as container plants, they are equally spectacular when used as bedding plants in your landscape. At Longfield Gardens, we want to help you enjoy the full potential of these versatile flowers by making the planting process clear and rewarding.
In this guide, we will focus specifically on how to plant begonias in the ground to ensure they thrive from late spring through the first frost. Whether you are starting with dormant tubers or nursery-grown starts, getting the basics right—like timing, soil preparation, and spacing—is the key to success. We will walk you through each step so you can feel confident adding these stunning plants to your flower beds this season. Gardening should be a joyful experience, and begonias are one of the most reliable plants for achieving big results with simple care.
Choosing the Right Begonia for Your Garden
Before you start digging, it is helpful to know which types of begonias perform best in the ground. While there are hundreds of varieties, most garden-grown begonias fall into two main categories: wax begonias and tuberous begonias. Both are wonderful choices, but they have slightly different needs and appearances.
Wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens) are the workhorses of the bedding plant world. They are typically smaller, growing in neat mounds about 6 to 12 inches tall. They have succulent stems and waxy leaves that can be green, bronze, or a deep mahogany. These are incredibly resilient and are often used to create colorful borders or mass plantings. They are also more tolerant of sunlight than other types, provided they receive enough water.
Tuberous begonias are the "glamour" plants of the family. They grow from a thick, potato-like tuber and produce much larger, often ruffled flowers that can reach up to 8 inches across. Varieties like the Switzerland begonia are particularly striking in the ground because of their dark, bronze-toned foliage and brilliant red flowers. Tuberous begonias generally prefer more shade and cooler temperatures than wax begonias, making them perfect for under trees or alongside the north side of a house.
Finding the Perfect Spot: Light and Airflow
Begonias are often called shade plants, but they actually prefer filtered light or "dappled" shade rather than deep, dark shadows. The ideal location is a spot that receives gentle morning sun and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon. If your garden is very sunny, wax begonias with bronze leaves are your best bet, as the darker foliage acts as a natural sunscreen for the plant.
Airflow is another important factor when planting in the ground. Because begonias have fleshy stems and leaves that hold a lot of moisture, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew if the air is too stagnant. Choose a spot where there is a light breeze, and avoid crowding them against a solid wall or in a tight corner.
One thing to keep in mind is the safety of your furry friends. Begonias can be toxic if ingested by pets, so it is a good idea to plant them in areas where dogs or cats aren't likely to nibble on the greenery. With a little bit of planning, you can find a spot that is safe for your pets and perfect for your plants.
When to Plant Begonias in the Ground
Timing is everything when it comes to begonias. Because they are native to tropical climates, they have no tolerance for frost. Planting them too early in the spring is a common mistake that can lead to stunted growth or even the loss of the plant.
The best rule of thumb is to wait until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. In most regions, this means waiting until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F to 60°F. If the ground is still cold and clammy, the tubers or roots may sit idle and become prone to rot. For timing help in your area, see the Shipping Information page.
If you want to get a head start on the season, you can start your begonia tubers indoors in small pots about 8 to 12 weeks before the last frost date. This gives them time to develop a strong root system and a few leaves before they ever touch the garden soil. When the weather finally warms up, you can transplant these established starts directly into the ground for an earlier display of flowers.
Key Takeaway: Patience pays off with begonias. Wait for warm soil and stable nighttime temperatures above 50°F before moving your plants into the garden.
Preparing the Soil for Success
Begonias are not overly picky about soil type, but they do have one absolute requirement: excellent drainage. "Drainage" simply means how quickly water moves through the soil. If water pools in your garden after a rain, the soil may be too heavy for begonias, which can cause their stems or tubers to rot.
To prepare your planting site, we recommend mixing in some organic matter like compost, well-rotted leaf mold, or peat moss. This improves the soil structure, allowing it to hold enough moisture for the plant while letting the excess drain away. If you have very heavy clay soil, you might consider creating a slightly raised mound or "berm" for your begonias. This keeps the base of the plant above the saturation zone during heavy rains.
You don't need fancy tools or expensive additives to get the soil right. A simple hand trowel and a bag of quality compost are usually all you need to create a welcoming home for your new plants. For more planting basics, our All About Begonias guide is a helpful place to start.
How to Plant Begonia Tubers in the Ground
If you are planting dormant tubers directly in the garden, the process is straightforward but requires a gentle touch. Tuberous begonias have a distinct "cup" or concave side and a rounded "bottom" side.
- Dig a shallow hole: The hole should be just deep enough so that the top of the tuber is covered by about an inch of soil.
- Position the tuber: Place the tuber in the hole with the hollow (concave) side facing up. This is where the new sprouts will emerge.
- Space them out: Give tuberous begonias about 8 to 12 inches of space between each plant. This allows room for the foliage to spread and ensures good airflow.
- Cover and firm: Gently cover the tuber with soil and press down very lightly. Do not pack the soil down hard, as this can damage the emerging sprouts.
- Water sparingly: Give the area a light drink of water to settle the soil, but do not soak it. Until you see green growth above the ground, the tuber doesn't need much water.
For a closer look at planting depth, How Deep Should I Plant Begonias? is a useful reference.
What to do next:
- Identify the hollow side of the tuber.
- Space holes 10 inches apart.
- Cover with 1 inch of loose soil.
- Check daily for the first signs of green sprouts.
Planting Begonia Nursery Starts
Many gardeners prefer to buy begonias that are already growing in plastic packs or pots from a nursery. This is a great way to get instant color in the garden. Planting these is very similar to planting other annual flowers, but because begonia stems are succulent and somewhat brittle, you need to be careful.
When you remove the plant from its container, gently squeeze the sides of the pot to loosen the root ball. Avoid pulling the plant out by the stem, as it can easily snap. Once the plant is out, check the roots. If they are circling the bottom of the pot, gently tease them outward with your fingers.
Dig a hole that is the same depth as the container the plant came in. Place the begonia in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring the plant is at the same level it was in the pot. Planting them too deep can lead to stem rot, while planting them too shallow can cause the roots to dry out. Give them a good watering immediately after planting to help them settle into their new home.
Essential Care for Garden Begonias
Once your begonias are in the ground, they are relatively low-maintenance, but they do appreciate a little regular attention. Consistent moisture is the most important part of begonia care. They like to stay "evenly moist," which means the soil should feel like a wrung-out sponge.
In our trial gardens at Longfield Gardens, we have found that watering at the base of the plant is much better than watering from overhead. Keeping the leaves dry helps prevent fungal issues and keeps the flowers looking their best. If you live in a very hot climate, a thin layer of mulch around the plants can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool, but be sure to keep the mulch an inch or two away from the stems to prevent rot.
Fertilizing is also helpful for keeping the blooms coming all summer long. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied every two to three weeks is usually sufficient. Begonias are heavy feeders because they put so much energy into producing those spectacular flowers.
Deadheading and Grooming
"Deadheading" is the practice of removing faded or spent flowers. While many modern wax begonias are "self-cleaning" (meaning the old flowers fall off on their own), tuberous begonias benefit from a quick tidy-up. When a flower starts to wilt, simply pinch it off at the base of its small stem. This keeps the plant looking neat and encourages it to put its energy into new buds rather than seed production.
If the plants start to look a little leggy or stretched out mid-summer, don't be afraid to give them a light trim. This encourages them to branch out and become bushier.
Design Ideas for Begonias in the Landscape
Because begonias come in so many colors and sizes, the design possibilities are endless. We love using them to create "layers" of color in a shade garden.
- Mass Plantings: Use wax begonias to create a solid carpet of color. This looks especially striking along a curved walkway or as a border in front of taller shrubs.
- Texture Contrast: Pair the large, ruffled leaves of tuberous begonias with fine-textured plants like ferns or ornamental grasses. The contrast makes both plants stand out.
- Color Themes: Create a high-contrast look by planting white begonias against dark green hostas, or go for a warm, tropical feel by mixing orange and yellow begonias together.
- Underplanting: Begonias are perfect for planting under "leggy" shrubs like hydrangeas or roses (in the afternoon shade). They fill in the bare space at the bottom with lush foliage and bright flowers.
One of the best things about planting begonias in the ground is that they provide consistent color from the moment the heat of summer arrives until the first frost of autumn. Unlike some perennials that bloom for only a few weeks, begonias are true marathon runners in the garden. If you want more ideas for combining plants, see our What Plants Grow Well With Begonias? guide.
What to Do at the End of the Season
As the summer winds down and the first frost approaches, you have a choice to make. Most gardeners treat begonias as annuals and simply remove them from the garden after the frost blackens the foliage. However, if you grow tuberous begonias, you can actually save the tubers to plant again next year.
Once the foliage has been touched by a light frost, carefully dig up the tubers. Cut the stems back to about an inch above the tuber and let them dry in a cool, protected spot for a few days. Once the soil on the tubers is dry, you can gently brush it off and store the tubers in a box of peat moss or sawdust in a cool, dark place (like a basement) where they won't freeze.
In the spring, you can bring them out, start them in pots, and do it all over again. It is a very rewarding way to grow your garden collection over time without having to buy new plants every year.
Key Takeaway: You can enjoy your favorite begonias year after year by lifting the tubers in the fall and storing them in a frost-free location.
Conclusion
Planting begonias in the ground is an easy and effective way to bring high-impact color to the shadier parts of your yard. By focusing on the simple basics—waiting for warm weather, ensuring good drainage, and providing the right amount of light—you can create a stunning display that lasts all season long. Whether you choose the reliable wax begonia or the show-stopping Switzerland variety, these plants are sure to become a highlight of your summer garden.
We are proud to offer high-quality tubers from Longfield Gardens that are ready to thrive in your landscape. Remember that gardening is a journey of observation and small successes. Start with healthy plants, give them a little space to breathe, and enjoy the beautiful rewards they bring to your outdoor space. If you want a broader overview of begonia care, the Begonia Planting & Care guide is a great next step.
- Wait for soil temperatures to reach at least 60°F before planting.
- Ensure the planting site has excellent drainage to prevent rot.
- Plant tubers with the hollow side facing up, about an inch deep.
- Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and healthy.
"A beautiful garden doesn't require a green thumb; it just requires getting a few simple steps right at the beginning."
FAQ
Which side of the begonia tuber should face up when planting?
The concave or "hollow" side of the begonia tuber should always face up. This is where the growth points (buds) are located, and the shoots will emerge from this area. If you aren't sure, look for tiny pink bumps or "eyes," which indicate the top of the tuber.
Do begonias need full sun or full shade?
Most begonias prefer partial shade or dappled sunlight, especially in the hot afternoon. While wax begonias with bronze leaves can tolerate more sun, tuberous begonias prefer cooler, shadier spots. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too much deep shade can reduce the number of flowers. For more growing basics, visit the Learn hub.
How often should I water begonias planted in the ground?
In the ground, begonias typically need watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather and your soil type. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. It is always best to check the soil with your finger; if the top inch feels dry, it is time to water.
Can begonias grow in clay soil?
Begonias can grow in clay soil as long as it is amended to improve drainage. Since begonias are prone to rot in soggy conditions, we recommend mixing in compost or peat moss to loosen the soil. If your clay is very heavy, planting in a raised bed or a slight mound can help keep the roots from sitting in water.
What happens if I need to order more plants later?
If you want to plan your next order around your climate, our Shipping Information page explains timing by hardiness zone and shipping schedule.
