Getting seeds from begonias can be a rewarding and exciting process for gardeners like us. While growing begonias from seeds is possible, it can be a bit more challenging compared to propagating them from cuttings. However, with a little patience and care, you can successfully collect seeds from your begonias to grow new plants.
To begin, you’ll need a mature begonia plant that has already produced flowers. The flowers will eventually turn into seed pods, so it’s important to wait until the flowers have dried up and started to wither. This indicates that the seeds inside the pod are fully mature.
Once the flowers have dried, you can gently remove the seed pods from the plant. You may find that the seed pods are still green or slightly yellowish when you remove them. Don’t worry, as they will continue to ripen and darken as they dry.
Next, place the seed pods in a paper bag or envelope. This will help to collect any seeds that may naturally disperse as the pods dry and split open. It’s important to choose a dry and well-ventilated area to allow the pods to dry completely. This process can take several weeks, so be patient.
After the pods have dried, gently open them to reveal the tiny begonia seeds inside. You may find that the seeds are small and dark in color. It’s a good idea to label the envelope or bag with the begonia variety and the date of collection to keep track of your seeds.
Now that you have collected the seeds, it’s time to prepare them for planting. One method is to lightly rub the seeds between your fingers to remove any remaining chaff or debris. Another option is to place the seeds in a sieve and gently rinse them with water to clean them.
Once the seeds are clean, you can sow them in a seed tray or small pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite to provide some protection.
Place the seed tray or pots in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight as it can be too harsh for the delicate seedlings. It’s a good idea to cover the tray or pots with a clear plastic lid or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect and help retain moisture.
Within a few weeks, you should start to see tiny begonia seedlings emerge from the soil. At this stage, it’s important to provide them with adequate light and continue to keep the soil moist. As the seedlings grow, you can gradually remove the plastic cover to acclimate them to the surrounding environment.
Once the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and are strong enough, you can transplant them into individual pots or your garden bed. It’s important to harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in their final location.
Remember, collecting seeds from begonias can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep in mind that not all begonias produce viable seeds. Additionally, hybrid begonias may not come true from seeds, meaning the resulting plants may not resemble the parent plant. However, experimenting with seeds can lead to exciting new discoveries and unique varieties.
Collecting seeds from begonias involves waiting for mature seed pods, drying them, and extracting the tiny seeds. These seeds can then be sown in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist, and provided with adequate light until they germinate and develop into healthy seedlings. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy the process of growing begonias from seeds and expand your garden with beautiful new plants.
