Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Begonia Light Preferences
- Selecting the Right Soil for Your Site
- Sheltering from the Elements
- Placing Begonias in Garden Beds and Borders
- The Advantages of Container Placement
- Designing with Companion Plants
- Regional Considerations and Microclimates
- Protecting Your Investment from Wildlife
- Bringing it All Together for Success
- FAQ
Introduction
Imagine stepping onto your porch or into your garden and being greeted by a sea of vibrant, rose-like flowers and lush, architectural foliage that stays beautiful from early summer until the first frost. Begonias are the quiet champions of the summer landscape, offering a level of versatility and color that few other plants can match. Whether you have a sun-drenched patio or a tucked-away woodland corner, there is a begonia perfectly suited for that space.
At Longfield Gardens, we want to help you make the most of these spectacular plants by finding the ideal home for them in your yard. Browse our Begonia Flower Bulbs for Sale to see the options we grow and ship. We spend a great deal of time in our trial gardens in Lakewood, New Jersey, observing how different varieties perform in various settings. This helps us ensure that the plants we ship to you are ready to thrive in your unique environment.
In this guide, we will focus on the most important factor for success: exactly where to plant begonias outside. By understanding their needs for light, soil, and shelter, you can transform even the trickiest spots in your garden into a floral showcase. Finding the right location is the simplest way to ensure your begonias bloom enthusiastically all season long.
Understanding Begonia Light Preferences
The most common question gardeners ask is whether begonias prefer sun or shade. The answer is that they enjoy a bit of both, but the balance depends heavily on the specific type of begonia you are growing and your local climate. If you want to browse a broad range of forms, our Upright Double Begonias collection is a good place to start.
The Magic of Filtered Light
Most begonias thrive in "filtered" or "dappled" light. This is the kind of light you find under a high-canopy tree or beneath a pergola. In these spots, the plants receive bright, indirect light throughout the day without the intensity of direct, midday sun hitting their leaves. This environment mimics the tropical forest floors where many begonias originated.
If you are choosing a spot near your home, a north-facing or east-facing wall is often ideal. An east-facing location provides gentle morning sun, which begonias love, while offering cooling shade during the hottest part of the afternoon. A north-facing spot provides consistent, bright shade that keeps the foliage lush and prevents the soil from drying out too quickly.
Sun Tolerance and Foliage Color
While tuberous begonias generally prefer more shade, some modern varieties, like Begonia Upright Double Bertini, have been bred to handle a bit more sun. A simple rule to remember is to look at the foliage. Varieties with bronze or dark burgundy leaves are naturally more resistant to sun scald.
If you have a spot that receives more than six hours of sun, these bronze-leaved varieties are your best bet. On the other hand, begonias with bright green leaves are typically more sensitive. If placed in a spot that is too sunny, their leaves may turn yellow or develop crispy, brown edges. If you notice this happening, it is a clear sign that the plant would be happier in a slightly more shaded location.
Dealing with Deep Shade
While begonias are famous for their shade tolerance, they do need some light to produce flowers. In very deep, dark shade—such as under a low-hanging evergreen or a dark porch roof—the plants may grow leggy as they reach for the light, and flower production will slow down. If your chosen spot feels very dim, try moving the plant a few feet toward the edge of the shade to catch a bit more ambient light.
Key Takeaway: Most begonias perform best with bright, indirect light or gentle morning sun. Protect them from the harsh, direct rays of the afternoon to prevent leaf burn and keep the blooms looking fresh.
Selecting the Right Soil for Your Site
Once you have identified a spot with the right light, the next thing to consider is what is happening under the surface. Begonias are relatively easy-going, but they are very specific about their soil requirements. The "where" of planting is just as much about the soil quality as it is about the sun.
The Importance of Drainage
Drainage refers to how fast water leaves the soil after a rain or watering. Begonias have fleshy stems and roots that store water. This makes them somewhat drought-tolerant, but it also makes them very susceptible to rot if they sit in water for too long.
Avoid planting begonias in low spots in your yard where water naturally collects after a storm. If you see a puddle that stays for more than an hour or two after a heavy rain, that spot is likely too wet for begonias. Instead, look for slightly elevated areas or spots with loose, crumbly soil. If your garden has heavy clay soil, you can improve the drainage in a specific planting area by mixing in organic matter like compost or finely ground bark.
Rich, Fertile Ground
Begonias are "heavy feeders," meaning they need plenty of nutrients to keep up their non-stop blooming through the fall. The best location for them is a spot with soil that is rich in organic matter. We recommend preparing your planting site by loosening the soil and adding a few inches of compost. This not only provides nutrients but also helps the soil maintain a "spongy" texture that begonias love—one that holds a little moisture but lets the excess drain away freely. For a deeper planting refresher, see our Tips for Growing Tuberous Begonias.
What to Do Next for Soil Success:
- Identify a well-drained spot that doesn't hold standing water.
- Dig a small test hole and fill it with water to see how quickly it drains.
- Amend the area with compost or aged manure to boost nutrients.
- Ensure the soil is loose and easy to work with before planting.
Sheltering from the Elements
Begonias are beautiful, but they can be somewhat brittle. Their stems are filled with water, which makes them succulent but also prone to snapping if they are mistreated by the weather. Choosing a location that offers physical protection is an important part of the planting process.
Protection from Wind
High winds can be tough on begonias, especially the taller cane-like varieties or the large-flowered tuberous types. A strong gust can easily snap a stem or tear the large, decorative leaves. When picking a spot, look for natural windbreaks. Planting near a fence, a hedge, or the side of a building can provide the necessary shelter.
If you are planting in a wide-open garden bed, consider placing begonias in the middle of a group of other plants. The surrounding plants will act as a buffer against the wind. For hanging baskets, which are particularly exposed, try to hang them in areas that are somewhat shielded by a porch roof or a nearby wall.
Managing Heavy Rain
While begonias need regular water, a torrential downpour can be hard on the blooms. Large, double-flowered varieties can become heavy when soaked with rain, causing the stems to droop or the petals to bruise. If you live in an area prone to frequent summer thunderstorms, a "where" that includes some overhead cover—like the eaves of a house or a covered patio—can keep your plants looking pristine.
If your begonias are in the open garden, you can help them recover from heavy rain by ensuring they have plenty of air circulation. Good airflow helps the foliage and flowers dry out quickly, which reduces the risk of fungal issues like powdery mildew. Avoid crowding your plants too closely together; giving them a bit of "breathing room" is a simple win for plant health.
Placing Begonias in Garden Beds and Borders
When it comes to the landscape, begonias are incredibly versatile. Because they stay relatively compact and bloom continuously, they are excellent for adding structure and color to beds and borders.
Edging and Mass Plantings
Wax begonias, like the Double Up™ series, are perfect for the front of a garden bed. Their uniform growth habit makes them ideal for creating a tidy "edge" along a walkway or around a focal point. When you plant them in a mass—meaning many plants of the same color grouped together—they create a high-impact carpet of color that lasts all season.
For a dramatic look, try planting a large sweep of bronze-leaved begonias. The dark foliage provides a sophisticated contrast to the bright green leaves of other shade plants like hostas or ferns. This contrast is often more striking than the flowers themselves and keeps the garden looking designed and intentional even when you aren't standing right next to it.
Using Begonias as "Fillers"
In a mixed border, begonias are the ultimate "gap fillers." Because they don't mind a bit of shade from taller neighbors, you can tuck them into the empty spaces between perennials that may have finished blooming earlier in the year. For example, after spring bulbs like tulips have faded, begonias can be planted in that same space to provide color for the rest of the summer.
Strategic Placement for Visual Impact:
- Place begonias where you will see them often, such as near an entryway or along a favorite path.
- Use them to brighten up "dead zones" under large trees where grass won't grow.
- Group them by color for a bold, professional landscape appearance.
- Incorporate them into foundation plantings to add softness and color to the base of your home.
The Advantages of Container Placement
If you aren't sure where to plant begonias in the ground, containers are the perfect solution. Growing begonias in pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets gives you total control over their environment. You can move the pots as the sun shifts through the seasons, and you can provide the exact soil mix they prefer. If you want to get an early jump on the season, see our Starting Tuberous Begonias Indoors.
Patios, Porches, and Decks
Begonias are among the best choices for container gardening on covered porches and patios. These areas often have low light levels that would be too dark for petunias or geraniums, but begonias thrive in them. A large pot of Surefire® Rose begonias on either side of a front door creates a welcoming and elegant entrance.
Containers also allow you to bring the beauty of begonias to areas that don't have soil, such as a paved courtyard or a wooden deck. Because begonias have relatively shallow root systems, they don't need massive pots to be happy. A standard 10- or 12-inch pot is often plenty of room for a spectacular display.
Hanging Baskets and Window Boxes
Trailing varieties, such as our Begonia Hanging Pink Balcony, are practically made for hanging baskets. Their stems naturally cascade over the edges of the pot, creating a waterfall of blooms. When placing hanging baskets, the "where" is all about height and accessibility. Hang them at eye level where you can appreciate the intricate flowers and easily reach them for watering.
Window boxes are another fantastic location. They offer the plants a bit of protection from the house while allowing the blooms to "spill" over the front. If your window box is in a sunny spot, remember that the soil in these smaller containers dries out faster. You may need to check them more frequently than you would a plant in the ground.
Key Takeaway: Containers offer the flexibility to move your begonias if you notice they are getting too much sun or wind. They are the ideal solution for gardeners with limited space or challenging soil.
Designing with Companion Plants
Where you plant begonias also involves what you plant with them. Choosing the right neighbors can enhance the beauty of your begonias and create a more professional-looking garden. The best companions are those that enjoy the same "part sun to shade" conditions and moist, well-drained soil.
Texture and Contrast
Since many begonias have bold, colorful foliage, they look best when paired with plants that have different textures. Ferns are a classic companion; their delicate, feathery fronds provide a beautiful backdrop for the solid, waxy leaves of a begonia.
Coleus is another excellent choice. Both begonias and coleus are grown for their foliage, and their colors can be matched or contrasted to create a vibrant display. For example, a lime-green coleus paired with a dark-leaved begonia creates a high-energy look that pops in a shaded corner.
Combining with Traditional Shade Favorites
If you have a hosta garden, begonias are the perfect way to add a splash of color to the sea of green and blue leaves. Since hostas can take up a lot of space, tucking a few begonias in between the clumps adds visual interest and fills in gaps where the soil might otherwise be bare.
Caladiums are another favorite companion. Their large, heart-shaped leaves often feature the same pink and white tones found in begonia flowers. When you plant them together, the colors echo each other, creating a very cohesive and peaceful garden design. A mix like Begonia Upright Double Roseform Pink & Picotee White can help bring that layered look to a shady container.
Regional Considerations and Microclimates
At Longfield Gardens, we ship plants to home gardeners all across the country, and our Shipping Information page explains how timing is based on your USDA plant hardiness zone. While begonias have the same basic needs everywhere, your specific "where" might change slightly depending on whether you live in the North or the South.
Northern Gardens
In cooler northern climates, the summer sun is less intense. This means your begonias can often handle more direct sunlight than they could in a warmer region. If you live in a place with mild summers, you might find that your begonias grow more vigorously and produce more flowers if they get 5–6 hours of sun. The cooler night temperatures in the North also tend to bring out more intense colors in the foliage. If you need help finding your zone, the Hardiness Zone Map is a handy place to start.
Southern Gardens
In the South, the heat and humidity are much more intense. In these regions, shade is your best friend. Begonias will likely need protection from the sun as early as 10:00 AM. A spot that feels "bright" in the North might be too hot in the South.
High humidity is actually a benefit for begonias, as they are tropical plants. However, humidity also means that airflow is even more important. Make sure you don't crowd your plants, and place them in areas where they can catch a breeze. This helps prevent the foliage from staying wet for too long, which is the main cause of summer plant diseases in the South.
Using Microclimates to Your Advantage
A microclimate is a small area where the conditions are different from the rest of your yard. For example, the soil near a stone wall might stay warmer at night, or the space under a large evergreen might stay drier.
You can use these microclimates to extend your begonia season. A spot near the house that stays a few degrees warmer might protect your plants from a very light, early frost in the fall. Similarly, a spot near a water feature or a shaded lawn will stay cooler during a mid-summer heatwave, keeping your begonias from wilting.
Protecting Your Investment from Wildlife
One final part of choosing where to plant begonias involves considering the local wildlife. While we want our gardens to be beautiful, we don't necessarily want to provide a buffet for the local deer and rabbits.
Deer and Rabbits
The good news is that most begonias are not at the top of a deer's favorite food list. They have a slightly sour taste due to oxalic acid, which often deters browsing animals. However, if deer are very hungry, they may still nibble on the flowers or tender stems.
If you have a high deer population, the safest "where" for your begonias is inside a fenced area or in containers on a raised deck or porch where animals are less likely to roam. Rabbits can also be an issue for young plants. Placing begonias in elevated pots or hanging baskets is a simple and effective way to keep them out of reach of bunnies.
Insects and Beneficials
Fortunately, begonias don't have many serious insect problems when planted in the right spot. When they are grown outside, natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings often help keep common pests like aphids or mealybugs in check.
By choosing a location with good air circulation and the right amount of light, you are keeping the plant healthy and strong. A healthy plant is much better at resisting pests and diseases than one that is stressed by being in the wrong location.
Bringing it All Together for Success
Finding the perfect spot for your begonias doesn't have to be complicated. It really comes down to observing your yard for a day or two to see where the shadows fall and where the wind blows. Once you understand the rhythm of your garden, you can tuck these plants into the spots where they will truly shine.
At Longfield Gardens, we are committed to your gardening success. We select only the highest quality tubers and plants and maintain a trial garden to ensure they are ready to perform for you, and our About Us & Our Guarantee page explains how we stand behind every order. Remember that gardening is an evolving process. If you plant a begonia and it doesn't seem happy, don't be afraid to move it! One of the joys of gardening is learning and adjusting as you go.
Whether you are massing wax begonias along a garden path or hanging a beautiful tuberous variety on your front porch, these plants are sure to bring you joy all summer long. With just a little bit of planning regarding where to plant them, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular show of color that gets better every week.
- Prioritize Light: Look for bright, indirect light or morning sun for most varieties.
- Check the Soil: Ensure your chosen spot has excellent drainage to prevent root issues.
- Offer Protection: Choose sheltered locations to protect brittle stems from wind and rain.
- Experiment with Containers: Use pots and baskets for ultimate flexibility in placement.
Key Takeaway: Success with begonias is all about balance. Provide them with enough light to bloom, but enough shade to stay cool, and they will reward you with non-stop color from summer through fall.
FAQ
Can begonias handle full sun?
While most begonias prefer partial shade, certain varieties can tolerate more sun than others. Wax begonias with bronze or dark foliage are the most sun-tolerant and can often handle full sun in northern climates, provided they receive enough water. Tuberous and Rex begonias, however, should always be protected from intense, direct sunlight to prevent their leaves and flowers from burning.
Are begonias deer resistant?
Begonias are generally considered to be deer-resistant because their leaves contain a sour-tasting acid that most animals find unappealing. However, "deer-resistant" does not mean "deer-proof." In areas with high deer pressure or limited food sources, they may still occasionally nibble on the plants, so it is always a good idea to monitor your garden or use additional protection if needed.
Do begonias grow well in the shade?
Yes, begonias are famous for being some of the best plants for shade. They are ideal for brightening up areas under trees, covered porches, and north-facing walls. While they can grow in fairly deep shade, they will produce the most flowers if they receive "bright shade"—meaning an area that is out of the direct sun but still receives plenty of ambient light. For a broader overview of begonia types and planting, see All About Begonias.
Can I plant begonias in a hanging basket?
Begonias are a fantastic choice for hanging baskets, especially trailing tuberous varieties like the Double Delight® series. Because they are somewhat drought-tolerant and enjoy the airflow that comes with being elevated, they thrive in a basket environment. Just be sure to hang them in a spot that is sheltered from strong winds and intense afternoon sun to keep them looking their best.