Begonia plants, also know as Bedding Begonias or Wax Begonias, are easy to maintain, produce large, beautiful blooms, and come in many different colors and varieties that make these flowers a beautiful addition to any garden. They can even brighten indoor spaces, adding an elegant and colorful touch to your home. Begonia plants can be grown from seeds or purchased from a local nursery. Either way you choose to grow begonias, they will be a striking and vibrant part of your indoor or outdoor landscape.
Getting Started
Choose the colour of begonia plants you prefer. If you want to plant seeds, keep in mind that they take approximately 4 months to reach the bloom stage. Begonia plants prefer filtered light; therefore, you should choose a spot in your garden that has some shade during the hottest part of the day. These plants are native to Brazil and prefer warmer weather year round. Begonias, however, will grow in almost every climate during warmer summer months and may lie dormant during colder months.
Soil
Begonia plants grow best in a mixture of peat moss, good quality garden soil that is slightly acidic, and sand. The soil needs to drain well to prevent the roots from rotting. Water enough to keep the soil from completely drying out; feel the soil, if it is dry to the touch, it is time to water. You can add some fertilizer one a month to your begonias to ensure for a hardier plant.
Planting
When planting seeds, be sure to space them out approximately 20 to 35 centimetres. This allows for plenty of space for your plants to thrive. If you want to grow begonia plants in pots, be sure the pot has drainage holes. If the pot does not have proper drainage holes, the water will not drain correctly and will cause the plant to rot.
General Care
Begonia plants have little problems with insects or diseases. Trim back dead leaves and stems approximately once a month. During the winter months, trim back your begonias; in the springtime, they will grow and return to their beautiful shape and regain their vibrant blooms.
