Begonias, As Pot Plants or in the Garden

Begonias come in a wide range of flower color, and bronze or green foliage. Flowers may be pink, red, white, single to semi-double and very free flowering

For many years begonias were only considered pot plants. Many types still fall in that category. Plant breeders have developed many new varieties that are adapted as pot or basket plants and for use in outdoor beds.

Today's varieties of fibrous rooted varieties with small to medium sized flowers are adapted for our summer heat. However, their greatest advantage is their adaptability to either sun or shade.

Improve and fertilize the soil

Regardless of the light condition the soil more often than not needs some improvement. Our clay soils are almost void of humus or organic matter and are poorly drained and aerated. You will have to overcome these characteristics by thoroughly spading, plowing or rototilling the flower beds and adding 3 inches or more of peat moss, pine bark, or leaf mold along with one inch of coarse sand. Bring the nutritional level up by adding 1 - 2 pounds of a complete balanced fertilizer such as 8-8-8 per 100 sq. ft. of flower bed. The fertilizer should be carefully spread over the soil surface near the plant and very carefully and thoroughly watered into the soil. After the plants have become established, water thoroughly once per week with sufficient water to moisten the soil down to a depth of 8 inches.

Window boxes or pots…

For a potting soil or soil for window boxes, use 1/3 garden soil, 1/3 peat moss and 1/3 coarse sand. Fertilize after the plants are planted in the pots or boxes.

Begonias come in a wide range of flower color, and bronze or green foliage. Flowers may be pink, red, white, single to semi-double and very free flowering.

For more information on begonias as pot or garden plants, contact your local county Extension office.