Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Knowing Which Begonias to Buy
- Where to Buy Begonia Plants
- Buying Begonia Tubers vs. Potted Plants
- How to Judge Quality When Shopping Online
- Choosing Varieties Based on Your Garden Needs
- Timing Your Begonia Purchase
- Preparing for Your Purchase Arrival
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Introduction
Begonias are among the most generous plants in the garden, offering a non-stop parade of color from early summer right through the first frost. Whether you are looking for massive, rose-like blooms to brighten a shaded patio or dramatic, swirling foliage to accent a bookshelf, there is a begonia collection for every corner of your life. At Longfield Gardens, we know that the excitement of gardening starts the moment you begin browsing for your next favorite plant. Choosing the right source for your begonias ensures that you start your growing season with healthy, vigorous plants that are ready to perform.
In this guide, we will explore the best ways to source begonias and how to choose the right varieties for your specific garden needs. We will cover the differences between buying dormant tubers and potted plants, and what to look for in a high-quality supplier. This post is for any gardener who wants to fill their home and yard with reliable, beautiful begonias. By the time you finish reading, you will know exactly how to find the best plants for your space and how to shop with confidence. For a deeper look at begonia types and planting basics, see our All About Begonias guide.
Knowing Which Begonias to Buy
Before you start searching for where to buy begonias, it helps to know which type you are looking for. The world of begonias is vast, and different types serve very different purposes in the garden. Most gardeners are looking for one of three main categories: tuberous begonias, fibrous begonias, or foliage-focused Rex begonias.
Tuberous Begonias for Large Blooms
Tuberous begonias are the stars of the shade garden. They grow from a potato-like root called a tuber and produce some of the largest and most intricate flowers in the genus. If you want flowers that look like roses, camellias, or carnations, this is the type for you. These are typically sold as dormant tubers in the late winter and early spring. Buying them in this dormant state is a fantastic way to get high-quality varieties at a lower price point than fully grown plants.
Fibrous Begonias for Bedding
Often called "wax begonias," these are the hardy workers of the garden. They have small, waxy leaves and clusters of petite flowers in white, pink, or red. They are usually sold as small "plugs" or "starts" in multi-packs at local garden centers. These are excellent for mass plantings in garden borders or as reliable fillers in mixed containers. While they don't have the large, showy flowers of tuberous types, they are incredibly tough and can often handle more sun.
Rex Begonias for Dramatic Foliage
If you are more interested in leaves than flowers, Rex begonias are the answer. These are primarily grown for their stunning foliage, which features swirls of silver, purple, pink, and deep green. They are popular as houseplants but also thrive in shaded outdoor containers during the summer. Rex begonias are almost always sold as established potted plants rather than tubers.
Key Takeaway: Match the begonia type to your garden goal. Choose tuberous begonias for spectacular flowers, wax begonias for low-maintenance borders, and Rex begonias for colorful foliage.
Where to Buy Begonia Plants
Once you know which type of begonia you want, you can narrow down your shopping list. There are several places to find these plants, each with its own advantages.
Online Gardening Retailers
Shopping online is often the best way to find a wide selection of specific varieties. While a local store might carry a generic "red" or "yellow" begonia, online specialists often carry named cultivars with unique traits. For example, if you are looking for the fragrant Odorata series or the trailing Pendula types, an online search will give you the best results.
When you buy from an online retailer like us, the plants or tubers are often shipped directly from a climate-controlled warehouse. This ensures they haven't been sitting on a hot shelf or in a drafty garden center vestibule. We ship our begonia tubers at the right time for planting in your specific USDA zone, which takes the guesswork out of your spring schedule. See our shipping information for details.
Local Garden Centers and Nurseries
Local nurseries are a great place to buy begonias if you want to see the plant in bloom before you buy it. This is especially true for wax begonias and Rex begonias. Local shops usually stock these in the spring once the weather is warm enough for them to be displayed outdoors. The main drawback is that the selection is often limited to what is currently in bloom, and you may miss out on some of the more spectacular tuberous varieties that are best started earlier in the season indoors.
Specialty Plant Societies and Sales
For those looking for rare or heirloom begonias, specialty plant sales can be a treasure trove. Gardening clubs and begonia societies often hold annual sales where members share divisions of their prized plants. This is a wonderful way to find unique Rex begonias or species begonias that aren't commonly found in commercial trade.
Buying Begonia Tubers vs. Potted Plants
When you are deciding where to buy, you will often have to choose between buying a dormant tuber or a plant that is already growing in a pot. Both have benefits, but for many home gardeners, tubers are the secret to a spectacular display.
The Benefits of Starting with Tubers
Buying dormant tubers is one of the most cost-effective ways to garden. Because tubers are easy to ship and store, you can often buy premium varieties for a fraction of the cost of a large potted plant.
Tuberous begonias also give you a head start on the season. If you buy your tubers in February or March, you can "start" them indoors in small pots. For step-by-step help, see our Starting Tuberous Begonias Indoors guide. By the time the weather warms up in May or June, you will have a sturdy, well-established plant ready to go outside. This results in a much longer blooming season compared to buying a plant from a nursery in mid-summer.
The Convenience of Potted Plants
Potted begonias offer instant gratification. If you realize in June that you have a gap in a container or a shady border, a potted begonia can fill that hole immediately. You don't have to worry about the early stages of growth; the nursery has done that work for you. For container planting tips, see How to Plant Tuberous Begonias in Containers. However, you will usually pay more for this convenience, and the selection of varieties is often much smaller.
What to do next:
- Decide if you want to start plants early indoors (buy tubers) or want immediate color (buy potted plants).
- If buying tubers, check that they feel firm and heavy for their size.
- If buying potted plants, look for healthy green leaves and avoid any with yellowing stems or signs of mold.
How to Judge Quality When Shopping Online
Since you can't touch the plants when shopping online, you have to rely on the reputation of the supplier and the information they provide. High-quality retailers make it easy to understand what you are getting.
Tuber Size and Health
In the world of tuberous begonias, size truly matters. Tubers are usually measured in centimeters (cm). A larger tuber has more stored energy, which leads to more stems, more foliage, and a higher volume of flowers. When you are browsing online, look for the size of the tuber in the product description.
Common sizes for begonias include:
- 4/5 cm: Standard size, good for bedding.
- 5/6 cm: Large size, excellent for containers and hanging baskets.
- 6 cm and up: Jumbo size, produces the most spectacular display.
At Longfield Gardens, we focus on providing large, high-quality tubers because we know they lead to better results for our customers. A healthy tuber should be firm to the touch, similar to a fresh potato. If you receive a tuber that feels soft or mushy, it is a sign of poor quality.
Variety Selection and Accuracy
A trustworthy supplier will provide clear photos and detailed descriptions of each variety. They should list the expected height, bloom size, and light requirements. Variety accuracy is also crucial. There is nothing more disappointing than planting a "deep red" begonia only to have it bloom bright orange. Look for companies that work with reputable growers and have a clear system for labeling their stock.
Customer Support and Guarantees
Good gardening companies stand behind their products. Before you buy, check the company's guarantee policy. A 100% Quality Guarantee is a sign that the company is confident in their plants. They should offer support if your items arrive damaged or if they fail to grow during their first season. This peace of mind is especially important when ordering live plants or dormant tubers that will be traveling through the mail.
Choosing Varieties Based on Your Garden Needs
One of the joys of buying begonias is the sheer variety of colors and forms available. To get the best results, you should pick a variety that matches the specific spot you have in mind.
Best for Hanging Baskets
If you want a fountain of flowers spilling over the sides of a basket, look for "Pendula" or "Bouton de Rose" varieties. These have a trailing habit and flexible stems that drape beautifully. They are designed to be viewed from below or at eye level.
Best for Fragrance
Many people are surprised to learn that some begonias are beautifully scented. The Odorata White is a favorite for this reason. These produce large, double blooms with a delicate, sweet fragrance. Place these in containers on a patio or near an entryway where you can enjoy the scent as you pass by.
Best for Continuous Summer Color
The Non Stop Begonias collection is world-famous for a reason. As the name suggests, these plants are bred to produce flowers continuously from early summer until frost. They have a compact, mounded habit that makes them perfect for window boxes or the front of a flower bed. They are also slightly more tolerant of heat than some other tuberous types.
Best for Large, Showy Flowers
If you want the "wow" factor, look for Roseform Yellow or Fimbriata begonias. Roseform varieties have petals that unfurl just like a classic long-stemmed rose. Fimbriata begonias have ruffled, fringed edges that look like carnations. These varieties are often used as focal points in shade gardens.
Timing Your Begonia Purchase
Timing is everything in gardening, and begonias are no exception. Because they are tropical plants, they are very sensitive to cold temperatures.
When to Order
The best time to buy begonia tubers is in late winter and early spring (January through March). This is when the selection is at its peak. Many popular varieties sell out early, so pre-ordering is a smart move. When you pre-order, the company will reserve your tubers and ship them to you when the weather is appropriate for your area.
When We Ship
We time our shipping based on your USDA hardiness zone. Learn more with our Hardiness Zone Map. This ensures that your begonias don't sit in a freezing delivery truck or on a cold porch for too long. Generally, shipments begin in early spring so you have enough time to start the tubers indoors if you choose, or to plant them outside once the soil has warmed up.
When to Plant
Begonias should not go into the ground until the soil temperature is at least 60°F and all danger of frost has passed. If you live in a northern climate, this might not be until late May or early June. If you buy your plants too early and put them outside in cold, damp soil, they may struggle to grow. For more detailed timing and care advice, see our Tips for Growing Tuberous Begonias. Patience is rewarded with begonias; they grow rapidly once the weather is consistently warm.
Preparing for Your Purchase Arrival
Once you have decided where to buy and placed your order, it’s time to get ready for their arrival. Having your supplies on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Inspecting Your Order
When your package arrives, open it immediately. If you bought tubers, take them out of their packaging and check their condition. They should be firm and dry. If you see small pink or white "eyes" (growth points) starting to emerge, that is a great sign! It means the tuber is ready to wake up and grow.
Proper Storage
If it is still too cold to plant and you aren't ready to start them indoors, store your tubers in a cool, dry, dark place. A basement or a closet is usually perfect. Keep them in a breathable container, like a paper bag or a box with peat moss, to prevent them from drying out or getting too damp.
Basic Supplies
To get your begonias off to a great start, you will need:
- Well-draining potting soil: Begonias do not like "wet feet." A high-quality potting mix with perlite or coco coir is ideal.
- Containers with drainage holes: Whether you are using decorative pots or starting them in plastic nursery liners, make sure water can escape the bottom.
- A bright, warm spot: If starting indoors, a windowsill or a spot under grow lights works best.
Key Takeaway: Success with begonias starts with high-quality tubers, the right variety for your space, and proper timing. Don't rush them into cold soil, and they will reward you with months of color.
FAQ
Can I buy begonia plants that grow in the sun?
Most begonias prefer partial shade or filtered light, but some modern varieties are bred for sun tolerance. Wax begonias with bronze-colored leaves often handle sun better than those with green leaves. If you have a sunny spot, look for the "Solenia" or "Sunpleasure" series, which are specifically designed to thrive in brighter conditions. For more guidance, see our Are Begonias Shade or Sun Plants? guide.
Is it better to buy begonia seeds or tubers?
For most home gardeners, buying tubers is much easier and more reliable than starting from seed. Begonia seeds are incredibly tiny—almost like dust—and can be difficult to handle and germinate. Tubers provide a significant head start, resulting in larger plants and more flowers in the first season. For a simple start-up method, see our Starting Tuberous Begonias Indoors guide.
Why are some begonia tubers more expensive than others?
Price is usually determined by the size of the tuber and the rarity of the variety. Larger tubers (6 cm+) cost more because they have more energy stored and will produce a much more impressive plant. Newer or specialty varieties that are harder to produce may also carry a higher price tag than standard bedding begonias.
How do I know if an online plant store is reputable?
Check for clear product descriptions that include tuber size and variety names. A reputable store will also have a clear shipping policy based on your climate zone and a solid quality guarantee. Reading customer reviews can also give you insight into the health of the plants upon arrival and the quality of the customer service team. If you need help before ordering, review our shipping information.
Conclusion
Finding where to buy begonia plants is the first step toward a more vibrant and colorful summer garden. Whether you choose the elegant, rose-like blooms of tuberous begonias or the striking patterns of Rex begonias, these plants are sure to become a highlight of your landscape. By choosing high-quality sources, paying attention to tuber size, and timing your purchase correctly, you can enjoy a garden filled with lush foliage and constant blooms.
- Select the right type: Choose tuberous for flowers, wax for borders, and Rex for foliage.
- Buy for quality: Look for large, firm tubers from reputable suppliers.
- Time it right: Order in late winter for the best selection and plant only after the soil is warm.
- Plan for your space: Use trailing varieties for baskets and upright varieties for pots and beds.
At Longfield Gardens, we are dedicated to helping you succeed by providing premium begonia tubers and the practical advice you need to grow them well. We stand behind every tuber we ship, ensuring you receive healthy plants that are true to their variety.
"Gardening with begonias is a rewarding journey that turns any shaded corner into a masterpiece of color and texture."
Ready to start your shade garden transformation? Browse our selection of premium begonia tubers and find the perfect varieties to light up your home and garden this season.