Learn begonia care tips so you’re free to add their beautiful blooms to your garden.
Begoniasare an easy go-to annual for containers or hanging baskets.
The leaves come in almost any color and pattern, and add texture and interest to the garden.
Here are some begonia care tips for these high-impact plants.
They can be used in almost any garden.
Larger varieties are ideal for landscaping and create a dramatic effect when planted en masse.
Smaller varieties arewell-suited for container gardensand won’t crowd out your other plants.
There’s a begonia with the right look for any place in your garden.
Planting Begonias
Begonias are annuals, so planting will need to be done every year.
The best time to plant them is after the chance of frost has passed.
Begonias are slow to get going, so don’t be disheartened if there aren’t blooms right away.
They generally have a burst in growth after the summer heat kicks in.
Begonia Care
Begonias are also popular because they’re so low maintenance.
In warm climates, they may bloom year-round.Pruning is done in the springin this climate.
In cooler climates, they can be brought indoors and treated like houseplants during the winter.
Pruning can be done in the fall in more temperate climates.
To prune, pinch the stems back to the first or second healthy bud from the tip.
Most types of begonias need consistent watering, but also don’t like to be left too wet.
After a hefty watering, be sure to situate potted begonias so their pots can drain excess water.
If they’re in the ground, stick a finger into the soil to determine how moist it is.
Spraying the plants with water on hotter days will also help them maintain the cool conditions they like.
When it comes to fertilizer, begonias prefer theirs well-diluted.
Once blooms appear, begin regular fertilization, but be careful not to fertilize too often.
Feedtuberous begoniasa weak dose of high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer twice a month from first growth through the end of May.
After that, revert to diluted, balanced fertilizer or low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to begonias, bottom watering is better than top watering.
This can cause stunted growth, or leaves that wilt or curl.
If this occurs, relocate your plant to a shadier spot with bright, indirect light.
