Tuberous begonias are so named because they are grown from tubers. Dormant in winter, they sprout buds in spring and flower continuously from summer through fall. The older forms of tuberous begonias feature larger flowers, usually on a taller plant that might require staking.
Colors of begonias include bright white, yellow, orange, peach, pink, rose, brilliant red and dark red. Some of the older strains have picotee markings--a flower edged with another color. Tuberous begonias require a shady location that receives bright light, good air circulation, consistent fertilizing, judicious watering and grooming to remove the spent blossoms.
They can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially near the coast, and good air circulation helps reduce disease. Removing the old flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blossoms, and regular feedings will promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. He recommends a high nitrogen plant food with a formula early in the season.
Be sure when purchasing to read the planting label carefully to know which variety you have. In a flowerbed setting, this allows enough room for plants to grow together. Begonias rely on moisture in the soil to keep their tuberous roots healthy and active. However, as noted earlier, too much water can cause their roots to rot and decay. When planted in flowerbeds, begonias require about an inch of water per week to thrive.
One or two light rainfalls per week are usually more than enough to provide that amount. If there is a need to water, water in the early morning. This allows time for the soil to dry a bit through the heat of the day, preventing any chance of root rot from standing or pooling water.
For containers and hanging baskets, the key is to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Place your index finger down into the soil to check for moisture. Most planters and containers will need to be watered daily or every other day depending on your climate.
Again, it is always best to water in the early morning to allow plants to dry out some during the day. Providing a steady, low dose of nutrients is one of the biggest secrets of all to keeping begonias blooming big from spring til fall. The best way to encourage begonias to produce more flowers is to care for them regularly. ProFlowers has some suggestions for indoor care; to begin with, keep your begonia in a spot with full to partial morning sunlight, with a temperature of about 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Regular watering is important, but water the plant only when the soil feels dry to the touch. You can add houseplant fertilizer once a month, and prune off any faded or dead blooms to encourage new flower growth. Bob Vila recommends choosing locations with partial shade, especially the north or east side of a house, or below a covered patio or large tree.
The soil should be well-draining. Add peat moss or compost after planting. For outdoor begonias, avoid overwatering — these plants benefit from bottom watering and sprinkler misting when the soil is dry. Leelanau County Michigan. Thank you so much Gretchen. I had a feeling that was the case and I'll let him know. Now that I think of it I am wondering if he meant to say geraniums instead of begonias.
I remember that he had geraniums, but just don't remember begonias. Have a great day and thank you again. I just called and left him a message on his voice mail. Herb is 94 and he may have just said begonias in error. I have a feeling that might be the case since I also didn't think begonias could take those types of cold temperatures.
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