Do begonia baskets like sun or shade?

When it comes to begonia baskets, they are best grown in part to full shade with only gentle morning sun. Begonias are not fond of direct sunlight, especially during the hot afternoon hours. They prefer a cooler and more protected environment.

Growing begonia baskets in shade helps prevent the leaves from scorching and the flowers from fading. The delicate petals of begonias can be easily damaged by intense sunlight, leading to a less vibrant and shorter-lived display. By providing them with shade, you can ensure that your begonias thrive and produce beautiful blooms throughout the season.

In my personal experience, I have found that begonias grown in full sun tend to struggle. Their leaves become pale and wilted, and the flowers lose their vibrancy. On the other hand, begonias grown in shade or filtered light have shown remarkable resilience and have produced an abundance of stunning blooms.

To create the ideal growing conditions for your begonia basket, you can consider placing it under a tree canopy or near a building that provides some shade. This will protect the plant from direct sunlight while still allowing it to receive gentle morning sun, which is beneficial for its growth and blooming.

It’s important to note that the term “shade” doesn’t mean complete darkness. Begonias still need some light to photosynthesize and thrive. Morning sunlight is generally milder and less intense than afternoon sun, making it ideal for begonias. The gentle morning rays provide enough light for the plant to carry out its essential processes without causing harm.

When it comes to fertilizing begonia baskets, it is crucial to do so on a regular schedule. Begonias are heavy bloomers and require a steady supply of nutrients to support their continuous flowering. Using a balanced fertilizer, specifically formulated for flowering plants, will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and abundant blooms.

I recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific fertilizer you choose, as the application rates may vary. Typically, fertilizing once every two weeks during the growing season should be sufficient. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor your plants’ growth and adjust the fertilization schedule if necessary.

Begonia baskets prefer to be grown in part to full shade with gentle morning sun. Providing them with a cooler and more protected environment helps prevent damage to their leaves and flowers. Regular fertilization is also crucial to support their heavy blooming nature. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your begonia baskets thrive and provide a stunning display of flowers.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.