Trailing/Cascade Begonias

Why should you choose trailing cascade begonia bulbs?

Trailing begonias are a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance and vibrancy to their outdoor spaces. With their profusion of cascading flowers, they’re ideal for creating stunning displays in hanging baskets or containers, where their trailing blooms can shine. These plants thrive in shaded or partially sunny spots, making them versatile for various garden settings.

One of the biggest benefits of trailing begonias is their long-lasting bloom time. Flowering from July until the first frost, they provide months of continuous colour, giving you great value and ensuring your garden remains lively well into late autumn. Whether you’re looking for a bold splash of colour or a more delicate, pastel display, trailing begonias come in a wide range of shades to suit any garden palette.

On top of their visual appeal, trailing begonias are also low maintenance, making them perfect for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike. Once planted, they require little fuss, allowing you to enjoy their beauty without constant upkeep. Choosing trailing begonia bulbs means you’ll be adding both elegance and ease to your gardening efforts, with a plant that rewards you all season long.

Stephen’s trailing cascade begonia bulbs top picks

Stephen Teeuw is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. At Peter Nyssen, we offer a wide variety of trailing begonia bulbs to satisfy the needs of any gardening enthusiast. Here are Stephen’s top picks:

• Boliviensis San Francisco: I love any Boliviensis begonias, the long flowers add to the cascading effect.

• Illumination Apricot: Begonias are very vivid but I find the soft apricot works very well with the deep green angular leaves

How to plant trailing cascade begonia bulbs

Planting trailing begonia bulbs is simple and rewarding, giving you a summer full of vibrant, cascading blooms. Follow these steps to ensure your begonias thrive in baskets or containers.

Choose the right location: Trailing begonias prefer partial shade or areas with filtered sunlight, making them perfect for spots that don’t get full sun. Avoid placing them in intense, direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Prepare your containers: Use well-draining pots or hanging baskets with plenty of space for the begonia tubers to spread out. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can cause the tubers to rot.

Plant the tubers: Place the tubers with the concave side facing upwards, around 3-5 cm deep (just enough to cover them with soil). Space them apart, about 15 cm (6 inches), to allow each tuber to grow and produce plenty of flowers. If planting in a hanging basket, plant near the edge to encourage the beautiful trailing effect.

Use the right soil: Begonias prefer a light, well-draining compost. You can mix in some organic matter or grit to improve drainage and add nutrients.

Water carefully: After planting, water the soil gently to help settle the tubers. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged—begonias dislike overly wet conditions.

Feed regularly: For the best blooms, feed your begonias with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser every few weeks once they start growing. This will help maintain strong, healthy plants with continuous flowers throughout the season.

Final touches: As the plants grow, remove any spent blooms to encourage further flowering. Your trailing begonias will reward you with a stunning display from summer through to the first frost, bringing vibrant colours to your hanging baskets and containers.

Why choose Peter Nyssen bulbs?

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience

• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50

• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 

• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

FAQs 

When is the best time to plant trailing begonia bulbs?

The best time to plant trailing begonia bulbs is in spring after the danger of frost has passed. In the UK, this is usually around late April to early June, allowing the begonias to thrive in warmer conditions and produce abundant blooms throughout the summer.

Can trailing begonias be grown in full sun?

Trailing begonias prefer partial shade or indirect sunlight. While they can tolerate some morning sun, direct afternoon sunlight can cause leaf scorching and affect flower production. For the best results, place them in areas with dappled light or filtered shade.

How often should I water trailing begonias?

Trailing begonias like consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells, but ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering.

Do trailing begonias need feeding?

Yes, to keep your trailing begonias healthy and blooming, it’s important to feed them regularly. Use a balanced, slow-release fertiliser every few weeks during the growing season, starting once the plants begin to show new growth.

How long do trailing begonias bloom?

Trailing begonias bloom from mid-summer, typically starting in July, and continue flowering right through until the first frost in autumn. With proper care, you’ll enjoy their vibrant display of cascading blooms for months.

Need more help?

Transform your garden or patio with the vibrant, cascading beauty of trailing begonias. Perfect for hanging baskets and containers, these stunning blooms will add colour and charm to your outdoor space from summer right through to the first frost. Explore our selection of high-quality trailing begonia bulbs today and create a breathtaking display that lasts all season long.