Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Begonias as Outdoor Plants
- Choosing the Right Begonia for Your Garden
- The Importance of Light and Temperature
- Soil and Drainage: The Foundation of Growth
- Planting Your Begonias Step-by-Step
- Outdoor Care and Maintenance
- Troubleshooting Common Outdoor Issues
- Safety and Pets
- Using Begonias in Your Landscape Design
- Bringing Begonias Indoors for Winter
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Begonias are a favorite for many home gardeners because they offer some of the most reliable, long-lasting color you can find for your yard. Whether you want to brighten up a shady corner under an oak tree or add a lush, tropical feel to your front porch, these plants are up to the task. At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy begonias for their versatility and the way they bloom consistently from early summer all the way until the first frost of autumn.
The short answer to the question is a resounding yes—begonias are excellent outdoor plants. However, because there are so many different types, success depends on matching the right variety to your specific garden conditions. Some thrive in deep shade, while others can handle a surprising amount of sunshine. For a broader starting point, browse our Summer Flowers for Shade collection. Understanding these simple differences is the key to a beautiful display.
This guide is designed for home gardeners who want to bring these beautiful blooms into their outdoor spaces. We will cover the best varieties for your garden, how to manage light and water, and the simple steps you can take to keep them thriving all season long. How to Plant and Care for Begonias is a helpful companion as you get started. Begonias are one of the most rewarding plants you can grow once you understand their basic needs.
Understanding Begonias as Outdoor Plants
While we often see certain types of begonias sold as houseplants, the majority of the varieties we grow in North America are perfectly suited for life outdoors. In their native environments—typically tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, Asia, and Africa—they grow as perennials. This means they live for many years in frost-free climates.
For most gardeners in the United States, begonias are treated as "tender perennials." Since they cannot survive freezing temperatures, they are usually grown as annuals that are planted in the spring and finish their life cycle in the fall. If you live in a warm climate like USDA zones 9 through 11, you may be able to keep them in the ground year-round. If you’re not sure which zone you garden in, the Hardiness Zone Map is a good place to check.
The transition from indoors to outdoors is often beneficial for the plant. Moving a begonia outside for the summer provides it with better airflow and more natural light than it would receive inside. This often results in bushier growth and a much higher volume of flowers.
Choosing the Right Begonia for Your Garden
Not all begonias are created equal when it comes to outdoor performance. To get the best results, you need to choose a variety that fits your specific planting site. We categorize the most common outdoor varieties into two main groups: tuberous and wax begonias.
Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias are the "glamour plants" of the shade garden. They grow from a potato-like bulb called a tuber and produce large, spectacular flowers that can look like roses, camellias, or carnations. These are the varieties we often recommend for containers, window boxes, and hanging baskets because of their dramatic appearance.
- Upright Tuberous Begonias: These grow in a mounded shape and are perfect for garden beds or large pots where you want a focal point. For a full range of large-flowered options, see our Upright Double Begonias collection.
- Trailing (Pendula) Begonias: These have a cascading habit, making them the ideal choice for our Hanging Begonias collection, where the flowers can drape over the edges.
Wax Begonias (Semperflorens)
Wax begonias are the workhorses of the landscape. They have succulent, waxy leaves (which gives them their name) and produce clusters of small, four-petaled flowers. They are much more tolerant of heat and sun than tuberous varieties. You will often see them used as "bedding plants" to create colorful borders or mass plantings along walkways.
Cane and Rex Begonias
While often grown as houseplants, Cane begonias (like the popular Angel Wing) and Rex begonias can also spend their summer outdoors. Cane begonias offer tall, architectural stems and pendulous flower clusters, while Rex begonias are grown primarily for their stunning, multi-colored foliage. Both require a sheltered, shady spot away from heavy winds.
Key Takeaway: Match the variety to your location. Choose wax begonias for sunny borders and tuberous begonias for shaded containers or hanging baskets.
The Importance of Light and Temperature
Getting the light right is the most important factor in keeping your begonias happy. If they get too much sun, the leaves can scorch and turn brown. If they get too little, they may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Finding the Sweet Spot for Sun
Most begonias prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight. Imagine the dappled light found under a tall tree—this is the ideal environment. For more ideas about matching plants to low-light spots, see our Summer Bulbs for Shady Gardens.
- Shade Lovers: Tuberous and Rex begonias thrive in areas that receive morning sun and afternoon shade. The hot, intense rays of the afternoon sun are usually too much for their delicate petals.
- Sun Tolerant: Wax begonias are more flexible. They can handle full sun in northern climates, though they still appreciate some relief in the hottest part of the day if you live in the South. A good rule of thumb is that varieties with bronze-colored leaves handle sun better than those with green leaves.
The 50-Degree Rule
Timing is everything when moving begonias outdoors. Because they are tropical at heart, they have no tolerance for frost. Even a cold night that doesn't reach freezing can stunt their growth or cause them to drop their leaves.
We recommend waiting until nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F before planting them in the ground or moving your pots outside. In many parts of the country, this happens about two weeks after the last expected frost date. If an unexpected cold snap is forecasted, it is best to bring containers inside or cover garden plantings with a light cloth. Our Shipping Information page explains how Longfield times orders by zone.
What to do next:
- Observe your garden for a day to identify areas with morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Check your local 10-day forecast for nighttime lows before planting.
- If you have dark-leaved wax begonias, prioritize them for your sunniest spots.
Soil and Drainage: The Foundation of Growth
Begonias have a relatively shallow root system and are sensitive to "wet feet." This means they do not like to sit in soggy soil, which can lead to root or tuber rot. "Drainage" is simply the term for how quickly water moves through the soil.
Preparing the Garden Bed
For begonias planted in the ground, you want soil that is rich in organic matter but loose enough for water to escape. If your soil is heavy clay, it will hold too much water. You can improve drainage by mixing in some compost or peat moss before planting. This creates a "loamy" texture that begonias love.
Container Soil
If you are growing begonias in pots or hanging baskets, always use a high-quality potting mix rather than garden soil. Potting mix is designed to be lightweight and porous. If you want more container-growing tips, Easy Summer Bulbs for Shady Containers is a useful guide. Ensure your containers have drainage holes in the bottom. If you have a decorative pot without holes, keep the begonia in a slightly smaller plastic "nursery pot" with holes and nestle it inside the decorative one.
Planting Your Begonias Step-by-Step
When you are ready to plant, a little care goes a long way. Whether you are starting with dormant tubers or young plants from a nursery, getting the depth and spacing right will set them up for a successful season.
Planting Tubers
If you are starting with tubers from us at Longfield Gardens, you can give them a head start indoors about 4–6 weeks before the last frost.
- Identify the "cupped" side of the tuber. This is the top where the sprouts will emerge.
- Place the tuber in a pot of moist potting mix, cupped side up.
- Cover the tuber with only about half an inch of soil. Planting them too deep can cause them to rot before they sprout.
- Keep them in a warm, bright spot and water sparingly until you see green growth.
Spacing in the Garden
Give your plants room to breathe. Good airflow is essential for preventing fungal issues like powdery mildew.
- Wax Begonias: Space these about 6 to 8 inches apart. They will eventually grow together to form a solid carpet of color.
- Tuberous Begonias: Space these 10 to 12 inches apart to allow their large leaves and flowers plenty of room to expand.
Key Takeaway: Always plant tubers with the indented side facing up and avoid buried them too deeply. Half an inch of soil coverage is plenty.
Outdoor Care and Maintenance
Once your begonias are established in their outdoor home, they are remarkably low-maintenance. They don't require the constant attention that some other summer annuals do, but a few simple habits will keep them looking their best.
Watering Correctly
The goal with begonias is to keep the soil "evenly moist." This means it should feel like a wrung-out sponge—not soaking wet and not bone-dry.
- The Finger Test: Stick your finger an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait another day.
- Water at the Base: Try to apply water directly to the soil rather than splashing the leaves. Wet foliage, especially in humid weather, can encourage mildew.
- Container Care: Pots and baskets dry out much faster than the ground. In the heat of mid-summer, you may need to water your containers every day.
Feeding for More Blooms
Begonias are "heavy feeders," meaning they use a lot of energy to produce those continuous blooms. We suggest using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once every two to four weeks during the growing season. Following the instructions on the product label is the safest way to ensure your plants get exactly what they need without overdoing it.
No Need to Deadhead
One of the best features of modern begonias is that they are mostly "self-cleaning." This means that when a flower is finished, it drops off the plant on its own. You don't have to spend your weekends "deadheading" (pinching off old blooms) to keep the plant flowering. You may want to occasionally sweep up the fallen petals from your porch or patio to keep the area tidy.
Troubleshooting Common Outdoor Issues
While begonias are generally easy-going, you might run into a few common hurdles. Most of these are easy to fix by adjusting your care routine.
Yellowing Leaves
If the leaves on your begonia start to turn yellow and the plant looks wilted despite the soil being wet, you are likely overwatering. This is a sign that the roots are struggling to breathe. Let the soil dry out significantly before watering again and ensure your pot is draining properly.
Leggy Growth
If your plant is growing tall and spindly with very few flowers, it is likely searching for more light. This "legginess" is the plant's way of trying to reach the sun. Try moving your container to a slightly brighter spot or trimming back any overhanging branches that might be casting too much shade.
Powdery Mildew
This looks like a light dusting of white flour on the leaves. It usually happens when the air is humid and there isn't enough circulation around the plants. To manage this, ensure your plants aren't crowded too closely together and try to water early in the day so the leaves have time to dry in the sun. If you want a fuller refresher on the basics, How to Take Care of a Begonia Plant goes deeper into the essentials.
What to do next:
- If a plant looks unhappy, check the soil moisture first.
- Check for "drainage" by ensuring water flows freely out of the bottom of your pots.
- If growth is sparse, increase the frequency of your liquid fertilizer applications to once every two weeks.
Safety and Pets
It is important to note that begonias contain insoluble calcium oxalates. According to the ASPCA, begonias are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. The most toxic part of the plant is the underground portion (the tubers or roots).
If you have pets that like to dig or chew on garden plants, consider placing your begonias in hanging baskets or elevated planters out of their reach. This allows you to enjoy the beauty of the flowers while keeping your furry friends safe.
Using Begonias in Your Landscape Design
Because begonias are so versatile, you can use them in many different ways to enhance your home's curb appeal. Their consistent blooming makes them a reliable choice for areas that visitors see most often.
Enhancing Shady Entrances
A front porch that faces north or is shaded by an awning can be a difficult place to grow flowers. Tuberous begonias are the perfect solution. A pair of large pots flanking the front door with Upright Double Begonias provides a warm, colorful welcome that lasts all summer.
Adding Color Under Trees
Most flowering plants struggle to grow in the shade of large trees because of the lack of light and competition for water. Wax begonias are excellent for these spots. Because they are somewhat drought-tolerant once established, they can handle the slightly drier soil found under a tree canopy better than many other annuals.
Window Boxes and Hanging Baskets
For a classic "English garden" look, use trailing begonias in window boxes. Their stems will naturally drape over the side, creating a curtain of flowers. Mix them with foliage plants like coleus or ferns for a textured, high-end look.
Key Takeaway: Use the "Thriller, Filler, Spiller" method for containers. Use an upright begonia as the "thriller" in the center and trailing begonias as the "spillers" around the edges.
Bringing Begonias Indoors for Winter
As autumn approaches and temperatures begin to drop, you have a choice: treat your begonias as annuals and let the frost take them, or try to "overwinter" them to grow again next year.
Overwintering Wax and Cane Begonias
These can be brought inside and treated as houseplants. Before the first frost, prune the plants back by about a third and check them thoroughly for any hitchhiking insects. Place them in a bright window (but not direct, hot sun) and reduce your watering. They may drop some leaves as they adjust to the lower humidity of your home, but they will usually stabilize within a few weeks.
Storing Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias are even easier to save because the tuber can be stored while the plant is dormant.
- In the fall, when the leaves start to yellow or after the first light frost, lift the tubers from the soil.
- Cut off the stems, leaving about an inch attached to the tuber.
- Let the tubers dry in a cool, shady spot for a few days until the remaining stem piece falls off easily.
- Store the dry tubers in a box filled with peat moss or sawdust.
- Keep the box in a cool, dark, and frost-free place (like a basement or crawlspace) until spring.
Conclusion
Begonias are truly some of the most versatile and rewarding outdoor plants available to the home gardener. By matching the right variety to your sunlight conditions and waiting for the warm weather of late spring to plant, you can enjoy a spectacular display of color that lasts for months. Whether you choose the bold, rose-like blooms of tuberous varieties or the reliable, sun-loving nature of wax begonias, these plants make it easy to create a beautiful outdoor space.
At Longfield Gardens, we want your gardening experience to be as enjoyable as possible, and our 100% Quality Guarantee helps make that happen. Begonias are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike because they provide so much beauty for relatively little effort. With the right soil, a bit of regular water, and a touch of fertilizer, your begonias will be the stars of your summer garden.
If you like soft pink and violet combinations, our Pink & Purples collection is a lovely next stop.
"Gardening is a journey of discovery, and begonias are the perfect companions for that journey. Their resilience and constant blooms remind us that a beautiful garden is achievable for everyone."
Quick Next Steps:
- Check your garden for shady spots that need a splash of color.
- Browse our Non Stop Begonias collection to find your favorite colors and shapes.
- Wait for the 50°F nighttime mark before moving your plants outside for the season.
FAQ
Can begonias grow in full sun?
Wax begonias, particularly those with bronze foliage, can handle full sun in most northern climates. However, in the hotter southern states, they perform best with some afternoon shade. Tuberous begonias generally prefer partial shade and may scorch if left in direct, intense sunlight all day.
Do I need to remove the dead flowers?
No, most begonias are self-cleaning. The old blooms will fall off on their own as new ones emerge. This makes them a very low-maintenance choice for busy gardeners, though you may want to occasionally tidy up any fallen petals from the ground or patio surface.
How often should I water my outdoor begonias?
It depends on the weather and whether they are in the ground or a pot. As a general rule, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Container plants may need water every day during a heatwave, while plants in the ground might only need it two or three times a week.
Are begonias perennial?
In tropical climates (USDA zones 9–11), begonias grow as perennials and stay outdoors year-round. In most of the United States, they are tender perennials that cannot survive frost. Gardeners in these cooler zones typically grow them as annuals or bring them indoors to overwinter.