How to Grow Begonias In Containers

Begonias brighten up shady areas with their colorful blooms. Unlike most flowering
plants, which require at least a half day of full sun, begonias actually prefer growing in
the shade. They also never have a down time. Once begonias begin flowering, they
bloom continuously from summer to frost.

What’s Included in Your Kit

 Your kit includes a bag of soil, 3 begonia bulbs, decorative pot, a lid and a small plastic                         bag containing 3 rubber plugs.

Step 1: Save the Base Plugs

Your container comes with a bag containing three rubber plugs. Install the plugs when
starting your plants indoors or when moving inside to store for the winter. When the plugs
are removed for outdoor use, this provides adequate drainage for your soil. When indoors,
these plugs prevent a leaking mess.
To install, press firmly on the top of the plug until the wider top is flush against the
bottom of the pot.

Step 2: Arrange Bulbs & Soil

Fill the container with the whole bag of soil included in your kit. Place your begonia
bulbs 1” below the soil line with the top facing up. Space them evenly in the container
and cover lightly with soil.

Step 3: Watering

Water lightly after initially planting. Do not water again until the first sprouts emerge.
Overwatering before you see growth may cause the tuber to rot. Sprouts should appear in 2-4 weeks.

Begonias thrive in slightly moist soil. Finding the perfect amount to water is pretty
simple, usually watering about every two to four days. Take note that 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.

Step 4: After Care

Once your begonias have filled out, water them as needed. Make time to drench the
entire root ball at least once a week. Allow the soil surface to become dry to the touch
between watering as overwatering can lead to rot and disease. To check soil place a
finger 1” below the soil’s surface to feel for moisture.

To produce a good show of flowers, tuberous begonias need to be fertilized consistently
all season long. Fertilize with fish emulsion early in the season to help the plants bulk
up. Once buds appear, switch to an all purpose fertilizer for flowering plants. Follow
label directions for dilution rate. Feed every 2 weeks or mix to half strength and feed
every week.

Step 5: After Care in Growing Zones 4-7

In zones 4-7, begonias may be treated as annuals and you can discard after they die
back. You can also store the tubers indoors and move them back outside next spring.
Simply move the pots to a protected location such as a garage or basement to avoid
frost. Stop watering and let the plants die back naturally.

Step 6: After Care in Growing Zones 8-11

 In warmer climates, begonias begin their dormancy around the time late fall sets in for
zones 8-11. Blooms will slow down, and foliage starts to yellow. Leave your begonias in
the container and stop watering. Move the pots to an area where the soil will stay
completely dry throughout winter.