did you know?

The genus includes about 900 different species, ranging in habit from fleshy, herbaceous plants to shrubs and climbers. These widely collected plants grow naturally throughout the tropics and subtropics, especially in South and Central America. Begonias are named for Michel Begon, former governor of French Canada and an advocate of plant science.

general maintenance:

Deadhead as needed and remove any damaged leaves. Dig dormant tubers in fall after foliage dies back, and store buried in boxes of dry soil, sand, and peat, in a cool (40?50°) location.

pests/diseases:

Aphids, spider mites, scale insects, whiteflies, and mildew may occur.

controls:

To control aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, use horticultural-oil spray or beneficial insect predators. Regularly hose off aphids and spider mites with a directed stream of water. To control scale, use horticultural-oil spray. For powdery mildew, increase air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use horticultural-oil spray.

how to sow/plant:

Plant in early spring. Set tubers hollow side up, 2?3 inches apart, and barely cover with potting soil. Keep soil moist until growth begins. Tuberous begonias prefer a small pot with a limited root zone.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture once growth begins, and do not overwater; allow soil to become nearly dry between watering. Apply a diluted, balanced, soluble fertilizer weekly, following package directions.

garden hint:

To increase tuberous begonias, select tubers with multiple buds, and cut each budded section with a sharp knife. Treat each new section as you would an entire tuber.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Shade Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers (best grown in containers)
• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses:

combine with:

creeping Jenny ( 'Aurea'), English Ivy ( 'Gold Child'), or golden dead nettle ( 'Beedham's White').