Everything about Begonias

Begonia

Common Name: Begonias

Latin Name: Begonia

Family: Begoniaceae

Plant Time: -

Mature Size: 6-18 in

Sun Preference: Partial sun to shade

Soil Preference: Slightly Acidic, rich, moist soil

Bloom Time: Spring, Summer

Flower Color: Red, white, pink, yellow, orange

Native Area: Africa, South Asia, South and Central America

Toxicity: Roots are toxic to pets

Growth Rate: -

Wildlife Value: -

Table of Contents

If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to care for, beautiful, and perfect for adding color to any space, meet the begonia! These bright and cheerful plants are popular for their colorful blooms and attractive leaves. Begonias have been loved for generations, and they’re as stylish in today’s homes and gardens as ever.

Growing begonias is pretty simple, and with the right care, they can thrive both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or just looking to add some flair to your room, begonias are a fantastic choice! One thing to be mindful of: their roots can be toxic for pets.

Popular Begonia Varieties:

Care

  • Water: Begonias like their soil to stay a bit moist, but not soaking wet. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater because too much water can cause the roots to rot.
  • Light: These plants love bright, indirect light. Keep them in a spot where they get a good amount of sunlight, but avoid direct sun, especially in the afternoon—it can burn their delicate leaves.
  • Soil: Begonias prefer well-drained soil, like a mix that includes peat moss or perlite. This helps keep the roots from sitting in water, which they definitely don’t like!
  • Temperature and Humidity: Begonias thrive in warm temperatures, ideally between 60 and 75°F (16-24°C). They also love humidity, so misting them occasionally or placing them near a humidifier can keep them happy.

Planting & Growing

Begonias can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or tubers, depending on the variety. If you’re starting from seeds, plant them just under the soil surface and keep the soil moist. Most begonias grow pretty fast, so you should start seeing growth within a couple of weeks. If you’re planting tubers, do so in spring after the frost is gone. Space your plants about 8-12 inches apart to give them room to grow!

Pruning

Pruning your begonia helps it grow fuller and healthier. Pinch off any dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. For varieties like Rex begonias, removing flowers can keep the plant’s energy focused on growing bigger, more colorful leaves.

Common Pests

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the secret to growing begonias?

Plant begonias in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They need bright light to bloom, but too much direct sun can harm the leaves.

Do all begonias like full sun?

Begonias can handle different light levels, but in hot climates, they need shade from intense afternoon sun. Darker-leaved varieties can tolerate more light than green-leaved ones.

How often should I water begonias?

Water begonias when the top inch of soil feels dry, but don’t let them sit in soggy soil. Typically, watering every 2 to 4 days works well.

What conditions do begonias like?

Begonias thrive in partial shade and should avoid direct, strong sunlight. They grow well in pots and hanging baskets, especially in dappled light or greenhouse settings.

Planting calendar

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