Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Selecting the Right Begonias for Your Space
- Finding the Perfect Outdoor Location
- Preparing Your Soil for Success
- When to Move Begonias Outside
- Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Begonia Tubers
- Planting Begonias from Nursery Pots
- Ongoing Care and Maintenance
- Managing Common Challenges
- Popular Begonia Varieties to Try
- Growing Begonias in Containers vs. the Ground
- What to Do at the End of the Season
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Finding a way to bring high-impact color to the shaded corners of your yard is one of the most rewarding parts of gardening. Begonias are the perfect solution for these spaces, offering lush foliage and brilliant blooms that last from early summer right through the first frost. Whether you are looking to fill a garden bed with uniform color or want a cascading display for your favorite hanging baskets, these versatile plants make it easy to achieve a professional-looking landscape.
At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy helping home gardeners discover how simple it is to grow these tropical beauties in any climate. This guide is designed for anyone who wants to learn the best practices for success, from choosing the right spot to the actual planting process. We will walk you through everything you need to know about getting your begonias into the ground or containers so they can thrive all season long, and you can browse our Begonia Flower Bulbs for Sale collection to see the options we offer. (longfield-gardens.com)
Planting begonias outside is a straightforward process that rewards a little bit of patience with months of spectacular, non-stop color. If you are planning a larger bed, the Begonia Non Stop Mix - Bulk Offer is a convenient option. (longfield-gardens.com)
Selecting the Right Begonias for Your Space
Before you start digging, it is helpful to understand the different types of begonias available. For a quick overview, see our Types of Begonias guide.
While there are hundreds of varieties, most home gardeners choose between two main categories for outdoor planting: wax begonias and tuberous begonias. Upright Double Begonias are perfect for garden beds and patio pots, while trailing types are specifically bred to spill beautifully over the edges of hanging baskets and window boxes. (longfield-gardens.com)
Wax begonias are the workhorses of the summer garden. They are fibrous-rooted plants that grow in compact, mounded shapes, usually reaching about 6 to 12 inches in height. They feature waxy, succulent leaves that are either green or bronze. Because they are so uniform, they are excellent for creating neat edges along walkways or massing together in large flower beds.
Tuberous begonias are the stars of the show when it comes to bloom size and variety. These grow from a thickened underground stem called a tuber. Tuberous begonias produce large, often double flowers that can resemble roses, camellias, or carnations. They come in two main growth habits: upright and trailing. Upright varieties are perfect for garden beds and patio pots, while trailing types are specifically bred to spill beautifully over the edges of hanging baskets and window boxes.
Finding the Perfect Outdoor Location
Begonias are famous for their ability to thrive in low-light conditions, but "shade-loving" does not mean they want to live in total darkness. Finding the right balance of light and protection is the first step toward a healthy plant.
Light Requirements
Most begonias prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight. A spot that receives gentle morning sun and then remains shaded during the harsh heat of the afternoon is ideal. If you plant them in deep, heavy shade, they may grow leggy as they reach for the light, and they will produce fewer flowers.
There is a simple trick to determining how much sun your begonias can handle: look at the leaves. Varieties with darker or bronze-colored foliage generally tolerate more sun than those with bright green leaves. In cooler northern climates, begonias can often handle more direct sunlight than they can in the hot, humid South.
Protection from the Elements
The stems of begonias are quite succulent and can be brittle. This means they are susceptible to damage from strong winds. When choosing a location, look for a spot that is somewhat sheltered. Planting near a fence, the side of a house, or tucked behind sturdier shrubs can provide the windbreak they need.
Air Circulation
While begonias like a sheltered spot, they also need good air circulation. Tightly packed plants in a humid, stagnant area can sometimes develop powdery mildew, which looks like a dusting of white flour on the leaves. Space your plants according to the variety’s needs to ensure air can move freely between them.
Preparing Your Soil for Success
The secret to healthy begonias lies beneath the surface. These plants have a relatively shallow root system and are very sensitive to how the soil holds and releases water.
Understanding Drainage
"Drainage" refers to how quickly water moves through the soil. Begonias love moisture, but they cannot stand having "wet feet." If the soil stays soggy, the roots or tubers can rot. You can test your drainage by digging a small hole and filling it with water. If the water drains away within an hour, your drainage is good. If it sits for several hours, you will need to amend the soil.
Improving Soil Quality
If you have heavy clay soil that stays wet or very sandy soil that dries out too fast, you can fix it by adding organic matter. We recommend mixing in compost, finely shredded bark, or well-rotted manure before planting. This improves the texture of the soil, helps it hold just the right amount of moisture, and provides a slow-moving source of nutrients.
For container planting, always use a high-quality, peat-based potting mix rather than garden soil. Potting mixes are designed to stay light and fluffy, which is exactly what begonia roots need to expand.
Key Takeaway: Begonias thrive in "moist but well-drained" soil. If your garden soil feels heavy or holds water like a sponge, adding compost or planting in raised containers will give your begonias the best start.
When to Move Begonias Outside
Begonias are tropical plants by nature, which means they have no tolerance for frost. Timing is the most important factor when moving them into your outdoor garden. If you want more detail on getting tubers going early, see our How to Start Tuberous Begonias Indoors guide. (longfield-gardens.com)
The Temperature Rule
Wait until the threat of frost has completely passed and the nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C). Ideally, the soil should also be warm—around 60°F. If you plant them too early while the ground is still cold and damp, the plants may sit dormant or, in the case of tubers, begin to decay.
In most parts of the United States, this means planting occurs in late May or early June. If you are eager to get started, you can always start your tubers indoors in pots about 8 weeks before the last frost date, then move the established plants outside once the weather settles.
Hardening Off
If you have started your begonias indoors or bought them from a warm greenhouse, they need a "getting to know you" period with the outdoors. This is called hardening off. For about a week, set your plants outside in a shaded, protected spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their time outside. This helps the foliage toughen up so it doesn't get scorched by the sun or whipped by the wind on its first full day in the garden.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Begonia Tubers
If you are starting with dormant tubers, the planting process is a little different than planting a standard nursery start. Follow these steps for the best results.
1. Identify the Top and Bottom
This is the most common question we hear: "Which side goes up?" Begonia tubers are usually shaped like a thick disc with one side that is slightly indented or concave (like a shallow bowl) and one side that is rounded. The indented side is the top. This is where the leaf sprouts will emerge. The rounded side is the bottom, where the roots will grow. For photos and a fuller explanation, see How to Plant Tuberous Begonias: Which End Is Up?. (longfield-gardens.com)
2. Digging and Spacing
For outdoor garden beds, space your tubers about 10 to 12 inches apart. This gives the plants plenty of room to grow into their mature size without crowding. If you are planting in a container, you can space them a bit closer, usually about 4 to 6 inches apart, to create a fuller-looking display. For more spacing details, see How Far Apart Do You Plant Begonias?. (longfield-gardens.com)
3. Setting the Depth
Begonias do not like to be buried deep. Dig a shallow hole and place the tuber inside with the indented side facing up. Cover it with just enough soil so the top of the tuber is about 1 inch below the surface. In very heavy soil, some gardeners leave the very top of the tuber exposed until sprouts appear, but a light covering of soil is generally best to keep the tuber from drying out.
4. Initial Watering
After planting, water the area gently. You want the soil to be settled around the tuber, but you don't want to create a muddy puddle. At this stage, the tuber doesn't have roots to drink up large amounts of water, so be careful not to overwater until you see green growth breaking through the soil.
What to do next:
- Double-check that the "bowl" side of the tuber is facing the sky.
- Ensure you have at least 10 inches of space between each plant.
- Apply a light label to the spot so you don't accidentally dig it up before it sprouts.
- Wait patiently—it can take a few weeks for the first sprouts to appear depending on the soil temperature.
Planting Begonias from Nursery Pots
If you have purchased established plants in plastic pots, the process is even faster.
- Prepare the hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the current pot but no deeper.
- Loosen the roots: Gently squeeze the sides of the plastic pot to loosen the plant. If the roots are circling the bottom (which means the plant is "root-bound"), use your fingers to gently tease them outward.
- Placement: Set the plant in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil surface. Planting too deep can lead to stem rot.
- Fill and Firm: Fill the space around the root ball with soil and press down very lightly with your hands to remove large air pockets.
- Water: Water the plant immediately to help the roots establish a connection with the new soil.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once your begonias are settled in their outdoor home, they are relatively low-maintenance. However, a few consistent habits will keep them blooming at their peak.
Watering Correctly
The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to stick your finger into the soil. If the top inch feels dry, it is time to water.
When watering, try to direct the water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. Wet foliage, especially in the evening, can encourage fungal issues. If you are growing begonias in hanging baskets or containers, remember that they will dry out much faster than those in the ground. On hot, breezy days, container plants may need water every day.
Feeding Your Plants
Begonias are "heavy feeders," meaning they use a lot of energy to produce those constant blooms. Start a regular fertilizing routine about a month after planting. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every two to three weeks. If you prefer, you can use a slow-release granular fertilizer at the time of planting, which will gradually feed the plants throughout the season.
Deadheading
"Deadheading" is the process of removing faded or spent flowers. Most modern wax begonias are "self-cleaning," meaning the old flowers fall off on their own. However, tuberous begonias often benefit from a quick cleanup. Removing old blooms keeps the plant looking tidy and prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production, which encourages it to grow even more flowers.
Managing Common Challenges
Even with the best care, you might run into a few minor hurdles. The key is to address them simply and quickly.
Leggy Growth
If your begonias are growing very tall and thin with lots of space between the leaves, they are likely not getting enough light. If they are in pots, move them to a slightly brighter location. If they are in the ground, you can "pinch" the stems. Use your thumbnail to snip off the very tip of a long stem; this signals the plant to grow side branches, resulting in a bushier, fuller shape.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellow leaves can be a sign of a few different things, but the most common cause is overwatering. If the soil feels soggy, stop watering and let it dry out for a few days. If the leaves are yellow but the soil is dry, the plant might just need a bit of fertilizer.
Pests
Begonias are generally not a favorite for most garden pests. However, you might occasionally see aphids or snails. For snails and slugs, keeping the area around the plants clear of debris and fallen leaves usually solves the problem. For small insects like aphids, a quick spray with a garden hose or an application of insecticidal soap is usually all it takes to get things back on track.
Popular Begonia Varieties to Try
At Longfield Gardens, we have evaluated many varieties in our trial gardens to ensure they perform well for home gardeners. Here are a few of our favorites that are perfect for outdoor planting.
Non-Stop Begonias
As the name suggests, these upright tuberous begonias are bred to bloom early and keep going all summer long. They produce 3- to 4-inch double flowers in a wide range of colors, including vibrant reds, soft pinks, and sunny yellows. They stay compact (about 10 to 12 inches tall), making them excellent for the front of a flower border. (longfield-gardens.com)
Picotee White Begonias
If you want something truly elegant, Picotee White is a great choice. These flowers feature petals in one color with a contrasting edge in a different shade (like yellow petals with a thin red border). They add a sophisticated look to patio containers. (longfield-gardens.com)
'Skaugum' Begonia
This is a powerhouse variety known for its incredible vigor. 'Skaugum' produces an abundance of fiery orange-red flowers. A single tuber can grow into a large, bushy plant that fills a container or a significant spot in the garden. It is particularly known for its tolerance to a wider range of weather conditions.
Hanging Begonias
For those who want a waterfall of color, our hanging basket mixes are ideal. These varieties have long, flexible stems that naturally arch downward. When planted in a basket or window box, the weight of the large, double blooms creates a cascading effect that can easily reach 12 to 18 inches in length. (longfield-gardens.com)
Growing Begonias in Containers vs. the Ground
You might be wondering which planting method is better. The truth is that begonias thrive in both, but each has its own benefits.
In Garden Beds
Planting begonias directly in the ground is a great way to brighten up the space under a shade tree or along a north-facing wall. In the ground, the roots have more room to spread, and the soil temperature stays more consistent. This usually results in a plant that is more resilient to short dry spells. Just remember to amend your garden soil with compost to ensure the drainage is adequate. For more on this approach, see Can I Plant Begonias in the Ground?. (longfield-gardens.com)
In Containers and Baskets
Containers give you the ultimate control over the environment. You can use the perfect potting mix, move the pots to follow the sun or hide from a storm, and elevate the flowers so they are easier to see. Because begonias have shallow roots, they do not need incredibly deep pots—a standard 8- to 12-inch deep container is perfect.
If you are planting a hanging basket, consider using a coco-fiber liner. These liners look natural and provide excellent drainage. Just keep in mind that they also allow the soil to dry out faster, so you will need to check the moisture level daily.
What to Do at the End of the Season
In most of the United States (Zones 3 through 8), begonias are treated as annuals because they cannot survive freezing winters. However, because tuberous begonias grow from a tuber, you can actually save them to plant again next year. For more details on overwintering, see our All About Begonias guide. (longfield-gardens.com)
Lifting the Tubers
After the first light frost kills back the foliage, the plant will look a bit sad and blackened. This is your cue to act. Carefully dig up the tubers, being careful not to nick them with your shovel. Cut off the remaining stems, leaving about an inch attached to the tuber.
Curing and Storage
Spread the tubers out in a dry, shaded area (like a garage or basement) for about a week to let them "cure." This dries out the outer skin. Once they are dry, brush off the excess soil and place them in a paper bag or a box filled with dry peat moss or sawdust. Store them in a cool, dark, frost-free place—a temperature around 45°F to 50°F is perfect. Next spring, about 8 weeks before the last frost, you can bring them out and start the cycle all over again.
Wax begonias are generally not worth overwintering as tubers (since they are fibrous-rooted), but many gardeners enjoy bringing them indoors to live as houseplants during the winter months.
Conclusion
Planting begonias outside is one of the easiest ways to transform a shady yard into a colorful sanctuary. By focusing on the basics—waiting for warm weather, ensuring good drainage, and providing the right amount of filtered light—you can enjoy a stunning display that lasts for months. Whether you choose the uniform beauty of wax begonias or the dramatic, rose-like blooms of tuberous varieties, these plants are sure to become a favorite in your summer garden.
We are proud to provide high-quality tubers and plants at Longfield Gardens to help you get started. Learn more in our About Us and Guarantee page. Gardening should be a joyful, relaxing experience, and begonias are the perfect partner for a low-stress, high-reward season. (longfield-gardens.com)
Final Steps for Success:
- Wait for nighttime temperatures to stay above 50°F.
- Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Plant tubers concave-side up, just 1 inch deep.
- Keep the soil moist but never soggy.
FAQ
Do begonias need sun or shade?
Begonias are traditionally shade-loving plants, but they do best in "partial shade" or filtered sunlight. A location that receives 2 to 4 hours of gentle morning sun followed by afternoon shade is usually perfect. Avoid deep, dark shade where no light reaches, as this will result in fewer flowers and leggy stems.
When is the best time to plant begonias outside?
The best time is in late spring, once the danger of frost has completely passed and nighttime temperatures are consistently 50°F or higher. Because they are tropical plants, they will not grow well in cold soil. If you live in a northern climate, this usually means waiting until late May or early June. For timing by zone, see our Shipping Information. (longfield-gardens.com)
Can I plant begonias in the ground or just in pots?
Begonias thrive in both garden beds and containers. In the ground, they work beautifully as bedding plants or border edges, provided the soil has excellent drainage. In containers, they are easier to manage and can be moved to different spots on your patio or porch to provide color exactly where you need it.
Do I need to dig up my begonias in the winter?
If you live in USDA Zones 9-11, begonias can stay in the ground year-round. However, in Zones 3-8, the tubers will freeze and die if left outside. In these colder regions, you should dig up tuberous begonias after the first frost, store them in a cool, dry place for the winter, and replant them the following spring.