Begonia General Information
Begonias will brighten your shade garden with flower shapes as diverse as their size. Some plants showcase single flowers, some double, some pendulous and some fragrant. Long flowering and reliable, they provide a boost of high-impact color. All our accent annuals are guaranteed to reach you in good condition and to grow, but we can't guarantee annuals to overwinter. Will be an annual except in zones 8B-10 but can be stored over the winter in colder zones. Instructions
Begonia Plant Care
Hardy in Zones 8B-10. Begonias need bright, but indirect light. Direct sun will cause the leaves to burn, so avoid placing it where it will be exposed to direct sun for a prolonged period. They prefer rich, well-draining soil. Bulbs can be planted indoors approximately eight weeks prior to the last frost. If growing in pots; use a fast-growing, well-draining potting soil and plant bulb about 1 to 2” deep. Harden off the plants for about a week prior to placing outdoors. If planting directly outdoors, plant once the threat of frost and/or freezing temperatures have subsided. Plant with indented or sprouting side up. If desired, apply a slow-release fertilizer like Osmocote® to the soil according to the product’s instructions. Lift tubers in the fall in zones 3-8A before the 1st frost and before temps drop below 50°. Cut foliage back in fall after the first frost to about 1-2” inches and carefully dig up the bulb. Allow to cure for 2 to 3 weeks, gently shake off any remaining soil. (Do NOT rinse, as extra moisture can cause bulbs to rot or mold.) Store in peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust in a cardboard box – plastic holds in too much moisture. Store in temperatures of 40 to 50°.
