How big do begonias get when fertilized?
If you give the begonias too much fertilizer too fast, then it’ll make the foliage grow rather than the blooms. You know how big begonias will be on average now. Some plants might only grow to be eight inches long, but others can be three feet long. Most of the average begonias that people buy for garden beds will grow to be one foot long.
Are begonias annual or perennial?
Known as wax begonias or bedding begonias, annual begonia plants (Begonia semperflorens) grow quickly and easily fill in spaces in the garden that will benefit from attractive foliage and frilly flowers.
How big do Angel Wing Begonias get?
Angel wing begonias, named for their wing-shaped leaves, also belong to this group. They are popular and well-suited as houseplants, but can also be grown outside. Their size varies with growing conditions, from 6- to 12-inch houseplants to bushy plants up to 5 feet.
How big do Rex begonias get?
A subgroup of rhizomatous, Rex begonias ( Begonia rex ), are widely available, sold by florists and garden centers year-round, and generally reach 12 to 18 inches tall and wide. Their distinct foliage makes them a popular houseplant, but they can be finicky.
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Do begonias come back every year?
Most begonias are annuals (last only one season). You can save tubers from tuberous begonias to replant the next year or bring annual begonias in as houseplants in winter. Some rhizomatous and hardy begonias (B. grandis) are perennial, or come back year after year, in warmer regions.
How much space do begonias need?
When weather permits, begonias can be transplanted to the garden bed, spacing about 10 to 18 inches (25-46 cm.) apart. Likewise, they can be placed in containers spaced approximately 3 to 4 inches (8-10 cm.) apart.
How big do begonias spread?
COMMON BEGONIA TYPES Wax begonias are typically grown as annuals, reaching 6 to 12 inches tall and wide.
Are begonias fast growing?
Known as wax begonias or bedding begonias, annual begonia plants (Begonia semperflorens) grow quickly, and easily fill in spaces in the garden that will benefit from attractive foliage and frilly flowers. They can be a focal point when planted in mass and are excellent specimens for container combinations.
Will begonias spread out?
Sometimes called fibrous begonia, these deer-resistant, non-invasive plants form small clumps that grow anywhere from 6 to 18 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches.
Do begonias grow well in pots?
Begonias make excellent container plants. They prefer to be slightly root bound rather than given room for their roots to sprawl. Let the soil dry out between watering and add a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
How long will begonias last?
No begonia has a long life span. Most only live for 2 to 3 years, even with good care. Cane begonias such as angel wings go dormant if the temperature gets too cool.
Do begonias like sun or shade?
They do best in situations with shade or morning sun/afternoon shade. Most varieties have flowers that hang down a little, making tuberous begonias ideal for hanging baskets and window boxes rather than garden beds and borders. No matter where you grow them, make sure they have good drainage to prevent rot.
How do I make my begonia Bushy?
1:484:16How to make Begonia Maculata Bushy tips and tricks - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what i did was every single time i saw a leaf growing at the top i would remove that leaf pinchMoreSo what i did was every single time i saw a leaf growing at the top i would remove that leaf pinch that leaf off so it forces the plant to grow more leaves at the bottom.
Do you deadhead begonias?
Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 6 through 11, depending on the cultivar, begonias (Begonia spp.) do not require deadheading to thrive. Rather they self-clean by dropping spent flowers on their own, says the University of Illinois Extension.
Do begonias need a lot of water?
Begonias thrive in soil that is neither dry nor saturated. Your goal is to find a moisture level and watering schedule that is justttt right. A good rule of thumb is to water every two to four days. When it's hot and dry you'll need to water more often than when the air cools down and the soil holds more moisture.
How do you keep begonias blooming?
The best way to keep begonias blooming as long as possible is to provide partial shade and well-drained soil. Additionally, increase the begonia blooming period by fertilizing your begonias every 2–3 weeks. As the blooming season progresses, deadhead old blooms to promote new flower growth.
How many begonias can be planted together?
Typically, you can fit 3-5 begonia tubers in a 10-12” diameter planter, depending on how full you want the planter to look. If you want to combine the begonia tubers with some green, white and gold foliage plant with Candidum Caladium and Color Festival Hosta for a fresh appearance.
How many begonias are in a wall basket?
How Many Can You Plant Per Basket? Typically, you should aim to plant around 3-4 Begonia in a basket around 40cm across, though this can vary depending on the variety you have gone for, and the specific basket or hanging container in question.
How many begonias are in a 16 inch hanging basket?
Plant spacing A general rule of thumb when planting a hanging basket is to use one plant per inch of basket diameter - so 12 plants per 30cm (12") hanging basket.
How far apart do you plant begonia bulbs?
Plant them in small pots or flats. Plant the begonia tubers hollow side-up, spaced three inches apart. Cover them with 1/2 inch of the soil mixture. Use a 6-inch (15.2 cm) pot for up to two small, 1 to 3-inch (2.5 to 7.6 cm)diameter bulbs or one larger bulb.
How big are tuberous begonias?
Tuberous begonias have 2- to 4-inch wide flowers in white, yellow, orange, rose, red, and pink. They are available either in upright varieties or with trailing stems 12 to 18 inches long. The trailing types are nice to plant in hanging baskets.
How many species of begonias are there?
The Begonia genus is a large and varied group, with more than 1,000 different species. The most common begonias for growing in southern landscapes are the fibrous-rooted semperflorens begonias (or wax begonias) and tuberous begonias.
What is the best begonia to grow?
For beautiful foliage and a constant display of color throughout the season, grow begonias, such as this beautiful Angel Wing Begonia ( Begonia coccinea ).
How to grow wax begonias from seed?
Wax begonias can be grown from seed. Sow the tiny, dust-like seed indoors, on top of the growing medium, without covering, at 68 to 75° F. Start seed about 12 weeks before planting outdoors. Since the seed is tiny, it is often offered in a pelleted form to make handling the seed easier.
Why does Dragon Wing Begonia rebloom?
Dragon Wing Begonia ( ( Begonia x hybrida ‘Bepared’) reliably reblooms because it is sterile and does not expend energy on producing seeds.
How to replant tuber begonias?
Dig tubers before the first frost. Cut tops back to within a couple of inches of the tubers. After dry ing, pack the tubers in cardboard boxes between layers of vermiculite, peat moss, or wood shavings and store at 45 to 55° F.
What are the problems with begonias?
The major pests of begonias are mealy bugs, spider mites, thrips, scales, snails, and slugs. Begonias may be sensitive to insecticidal soaps. For more information on how to test a small application area for sensitivity, see HGIC 2771, Insecticidal Soaps for Garden Pest Control. Begonias are also vulnerable to viruses transmitted by thrips like Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) and Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV). Viral infection can cause distorted leaves, black patches on the leaves, or light-colored rings or wavy lines to form on the leaves or blooms. Remove infected plants to mitigate the spread of viruses. For more information on insect and disease problems, see HGIC 2104, Flowering Bulb Insect Pests, HGIC 2049, Powdery Mildew, and HGIC 2100, Gray Mold (Botrytis Blight).
How tall do Begonia grandis grow?
Begonia grandis varieties are cold-hardy plants suitable for Zones 6 to 9. They grow 12 to 18 inches tall and wide and thrive in part shade to full shade locations. They’ll bloom from early summer until frost with clusters of slightly fragrant, light pink flowers, and they have large heart-shaped medium green leaves.
What is the largest class of begonias?
Rhizomatous begonias: The largest class, rhizomatous begonias are distinguished by relatively thick stems, or rhizomes, that grow horizontally near the soil surface and sprout new roots and leaves. They also have some of the most interesting leaves and stems and are often grown as houseplants.
What is a begonia?
Typically used as houseplants and in shaded summer beds, begonias have tropical and subtropical origins. Some are grown for their asymmetrical, patterned and variegated foliage, and others to add color to shady garden areas with their bright blooms.
How big do Rex begonias get?
A subgroup of rhizomatous, Rex begonias ( Begonia rex ), are widely available, sold by florists and garden centers year-round, and generally reach 12 to 18 inches tall and wide. Their distinct foliage makes them a popular houseplant, but they can be finicky.
How did the begonia get its name?
An extremely popular variety that makes a great houseplant, this begonia gets its name from the unique snail-like foliage pattern.
How tall do wax begonias grow?
Wax begonias are typically grown as annuals, reaching 6 to 12 inches tall and wide.
Why deadhead begonias?
For all types, deadheading spent begonia flowers keeps plants clean and healthy, as well as promotes more blooms.
Where Do Begonias Grow?
With the exception of one or two species, begonias are tropical or subtropical plants and can be grown as perennials (dying back in fall and regrowing in spring) in zones 9 and 10 of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
How many species of begonias are there?
With more than 1,200 known species, the Begoniaceae family is one of the largest flowering plant groups. Even so, it’s relatively simple to identify begonias because all of its species fall into three main types, sorted by their root systems.
What are the conditions for a begonia?
Favorite begonia conditions vary by cultivar, as do their bloom and leaf traits. Still, most have similar cultural requirements, including light, soil, water, and fertilizing. Here are a few tips on care of begonias.
What is wax begonia?
This popular wax begonia is a compact bedding plant growing to less than a foot, with variegated leaves and pink flowers. ‘Wax’ Begonia (Begonia semperflorens). Use wax begonia, with its deep green leaves, as a shade-loving annual or a tender perennial in warm zones. ‘Dusty Rose’ Begonia (Begonia × tuberhybrida).
How hot does a begonia plant get?
They prefer daily temperatures around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and overnight lows in the mid-60s, but they can often tolerate higher temperatures with protection from harsh sun rays.
What color are begonia leaves?
The leaves on this type of begonia can be quite colorful, ranging from nearly white and soft yellow to deep purple, green, and red, often in exotic combinations and patterns.
What is a rhizomatous begonia?
Known better for striking foliage than blooms (although some species are flowering), rhizomatous begonias are characterized by roots resembling knobby, horizontal stems that creep along the surface of the soil.
How tall do begonias grow?
Cane-stemmed Type: When not pruned, cane-stemmed begonias may reach 10 feet in height. It is a good idea to cut back overly-long stems in the spring or early summer to encourage new growth at the base. The tall, bamboo-like stems may require staking. Cane begonias are among the easiest to grow.
When do begonias bloom?
Flowers are usually single but may be semi-double or double. Flowering occurs from late autumn to early spring. Stems are usually weak and require support.
What are the leaves of a begonia?
These begonias have handsome foliage as well as attractive flowers. Most leaf surfaces are glossy, but some have a dull surface. Leaf color ranges from pale to dark green to mahogany. Often the leaves are shaped like angel wings. One of the species, B. coccinea, is named “angel wing” begonia, although many varieties in this group are commonly called angel wing begonia.
How to revive Lorraine and Elatior begonias?
Lorraine and Elatior begonias are usually discarded after flowering but can be restarted by cutting them back to within 3 inches of the crown. Reduce water and keep in a cool location. Increase water in spring. New shoots can be used as cuttings.
What color are Elatior begnoia flowers?
The Elatior begnoia ( Begonia x hiemalis) flowers come in many colors including yellow, white, red, pink, and orange.
What are begonias used for?
Flowering Pot Begonias: These begonias are used primarily to provide temporary floral color to the home . They flower during different times of the year, depending on the type.
When do tuberous begonias bloom?
Most tuberous begonias have spectacular flowers in summer and autumn. Tubers can be saved over winter and replanted in spring. At the end of the flowering season stop watering and cut off shoots. Lift tubers from the soil and store in dry peat moss in a cool, dry place.
What is a begonia plant?
Known as wax begonias or bedding begonias, annual begonia plants ( Begonia semperflorens) grow quickly, and easily fill in spaces in the garden that will benefit from attractive foliage and frilly flowers. They can be a focal point when planted in mass and are excellent specimens for container combinations. Annual begonia plants are also deer ...
Why water wax begonias?
Water wax begonias at the base to avoid leaf spot and the possibility of fungal diseases. The most compact and healthy wax begonias result from deadheading and pinching back regularly. Annual begonia plants may be cut back before frost and used inside as a houseplant in winter.
Can begonias be planted in shade?
They can be a focal point when planted in mass and are excellent specimens for container combinations. Annual begonia plants are also deer resistant, so keep them in mind for trouble spots in the landscape. Plant wax begonias in a full sun to shaded location. Full sun locations during hot summer days may stress annual begonia plants, ...
Can you divide begonias in spring?
Cuttings may be propagated for additional plants. Divide in spring for more outdoor begonia plants. Now that you’ve learned how to grow begonias each year, you can take advantage of this perky plant in the summer landscape. Foliage may be green or bronze/maroon with single or double flowers in pinks, whites and reds.
Do begonias need watering?
Annual begonia plants have many uses in the summer garden and beyond. Annual begonia care is relatively simple when one properly learns how to grow begonias. Watering is important in the care of begonias, as is the right location.
Do wax begonias need sun?
Plant wax begonias in a full sun to shaded location. Full sun locations during hot summer days may stress annual begonia plants, making them susceptible to disease. Therefore, in areas where summers are exceptionally hot, plant wax begonias where they will get afternoon shade.
Height/Spread
- Select a type of begonia to plant. There are two general types of begonias: those grown from seeds, and those grown from tubers/bulbs. The seed-started begonias tend to be a bit smaller and difficult to grow, while bulb begonias are sturdier and larger plants. Both varieties come in many color options including shades of pink, white, purple, yellow, and red. Bulb and seed be…
- Choose a location. Begonias are one of many common flowers that can be grown successful…
Ornamental Features
Problems
How to Grow
- Begonias are grown for their foliage and or attractive flowers. Some begonias, such as wax begonias and newer hybrid begonias, will continually flower throughout the summer. They can be used as bedding plants and in window boxes, hanging baskets, and other containers. Another benefit of planting begonias is that they are deer and rabbit resistant.
Landscape Use
- Disease problems associated with begonias include Botrytis blight and stem rot, powdery mildew, and Pythium root and stem rot. The major pests of begonias are mealy bugs, spider mites, thrips, scales, snails, and slugs. Begonias may be sensitive to insecticidal soaps. For more information on how to test a small application area for sensitivity, see HGIC 2771, Insecticidal Soaps for Gar…
Species & Cultivars
- Most begonias grow well in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil containing plenty of organic matter. In general, begonias need bright light to flower well; however, some will burn if the light is too intense. Bronze-leaved wax begonias (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum) grow better with full sun exposure than other types, whereas green-leaved cultivars are best planted in morning s…
Wax Cultivars
- Bedding varieties maintain a tidy and uniform habit and are ideal for small flowerbeds. Plants should be placed 12 inches apart for the best effect in the garden and somewhat closer in containers. Begonias look best when used in mass.
Hybrid Cultivars
- The Begonia genus is a large and varied group, with more than 1,000 different species. The most common begonias for growing in southern landscapes are the fibrous-rooted semperflorens begonias (or wax begonias) and tuberous begonias. Most begonia species are tender in South Carolina, but the beautiful and perennial hardy begonia will grow throughout the state. Wax Bego…
Tuberous Cultivars
- ‘Ambassador’ series has large flowers on compact, green-leafed plants.
- ‘Cocktail’ series is 6 to 8 inches tall with bronze foliage. The flower colors are ‘Brandy’ (pink), ‘Gin’ (rose-pink), ‘Rum’ (white with a rose-red edge), ‘Vodka’ (red), and ‘Whiskey’ (white).
- ‘Prelude Series’ hold up well through rain and heat. The compact plants have bright green foliage.
- ‘Ambassador’ series has large flowers on compact, green-leafed plants.
- ‘Cocktail’ series is 6 to 8 inches tall with bronze foliage. The flower colors are ‘Brandy’ (pink), ‘Gin’ (rose-pink), ‘Rum’ (white with a rose-red edge), ‘Vodka’ (red), and ‘Whiskey’ (white).
- ‘Prelude Series’ hold up well through rain and heat. The compact plants have bright green foliage.
- ‘Pizzazz Series’ includes white, red, and pink cultivars. They are heavy blooming and grow 8 to 10 inches tall.
Rex Cultivars
- ‘Dragon Wing’ series is known for its long blooming period and will consistently flower from spring until frost without pause. It reliably reblooms because it is sterile and does not expend energy...
- ‘BabyWing’ series is a more compact, tidier version of ‘Dragon Wing’, reaching only 12 to 15 inches in height.
- ‘Dragon Wing’ series is known for its long blooming period and will consistently flower from spring until frost without pause. It reliably reblooms because it is sterile and does not expend energy...
- ‘BabyWing’ series is a more compact, tidier version of ‘Dragon Wing’, reaching only 12 to 15 inches in height.
- ‘BIG’ series lives up to its name with plants reaching 36 inches tall. These begonias have either green or bronze foliage with red or rose-colored flowers.