How to plant begonias

Once the chance of frost has passed, plant your begonias around 5 to 10 cm deep in fertile, humus rich soil. They prefer light shade but will tolerate light sun.

• Select a Suitable Location:

  Begonias thrive in partial shade to full shade. Choose a location that receives filtered sunlight or morning sunlight but is protected from the harsh afternoon sun
• Prepare the Soil:

  Begonias prefer well-draining soil. If you're planting in pots, use a high-quality potting mix. For garden beds, amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
• Dig Holes and Plant:

  Dig holes in the prepared soil that are slightly larger than the root ball of the begonia. Place the plant in the hole, usually around 5-10cm
• Watering:

  Water the begonias thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering in the morning allows excess moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of diseases.
  The leaves are very tender and can scorch if they are wet.
• Fertilizing (Optional):

  If your soil lacks nutrients, you can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. 
• Mulching (Optional):

  Applying a layer of mulch around the plants can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a more consistent soil temperature. Use organic mulch, such as straw or shredded bark.
• Care and Maintenance:

  Keep an eye on the moisture levels, especially during hot and dry periods. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Prune leggy or overgrown stems to promote bushier growth.

Wait until after the first frost to lift their tubers, cut off their foliage and allow them to dry in frost free conditions. You can then dust your begonias with fungicide and store them until the following spring.

View our range of begonias here