Starting begonias can be done in various containers such as peat pots, small plastic pots, or a shallow seed starting tray. To begin, prepare your chosen container by filling it with about 2-3 inches of moistened growing mix. The growing mix can be a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, or you can use a pre-made seed starting mix.
Once the container is ready, it’s time to plant the begonia tubers. Place the tubers on top of the growing mix, making sure to position them with the sprouts facing up. Space the tubers about 3 inches apart to provide enough room for them to grow.
After placing the tubers, cover them with 1-2 inches of moistened growing mix. This layer will provide the tubers with some insulation and protection as they start to grow. Gently press down on the growing mix to ensure the tubers are securely in place.
Once the tubers are covered, give them a light watering to settle them in. Avoid overwatering, as begonias prefer slightly moist soil rather than being constantly saturated. It’s important to keep the growing mix consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Now that the tubers are planted and watered, it’s time to provide them with the right conditions for germination. Place the container in a warm location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Begonias prefer temperatures around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius) for optimal growth.
It’s important to note that begonias are tropical plants and are sensitive to cold temperatures. If you live in a colder climate, you may need to start the tubers indoors and transplant them outside once the weather warms up.
As the tubers start to sprout and grow, continue to monitor the moisture levels in the growing mix. Water whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.
Once the sprouts have grown a few inches tall and the danger of frost has passed, you can consider transplanting the begonias into larger containers or directly into the garden. Begonias are versatile plants that can thrive in both containers and garden beds.
Starting begonias involves planting the tubers in a container filled with moistened growing mix, ensuring the sprouts are facing up and spaced apart. Cover the tubers with a layer of growing mix, lightly water, and provide warm and bright conditions for germination. Monitor moisture levels and avoid overwatering. Transplant the begonias once they have grown and the weather is suitable.
