Transplanting begonia bulbs is best done once the stems have reached a height of about 1 inch, which usually occurs after approximately one month of growth. At this stage, the bulbs will have developed roots from the bottom, sides, and top of the tuber, and the stems will be sturdy enough to handle the transplanting process.
To begin the transplanting process, you will need to prepare larger containers for the begonia bulbs. Ideally, 5- to 6-inch pots or their permanent summer containers would be suitable. These larger containers will provide enough space for the bulbs to continue growing and thriving.
When repotting the begonia bulbs, it is important to handle them gently to avoid damaging the delicate roots and stems. Begin by carefully removing the bulbs from their current containers, taking care not to disturb the roots too much. If the bulbs are tightly packed together, you may need to separate them gently to ensure each bulb has enough space to grow.
Once the bulbs are removed, prepare the larger containers by adding a well-draining potting mix. Begonias prefer a loose and well-aerated soil, so make sure to choose a potting mix that meets these requirements. Additionally, ensuring the pots have drainage holes is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Next, create a small hole in the potting mix of the larger containers and place each bulb in its own hole. Gently cover the bulbs with the potting mix, making sure not to bury them too deeply. The top of the bulbs should be slightly exposed to allow for proper air circulation.
After transplanting, water the newly potted begonia bulbs thoroughly but avoid overwatering. It’s essential to strike a balance between keeping the soil evenly moist and ensuring it doesn’t become waterlogged. Check the soil regularly and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch.
Place the newly potted begonia bulbs in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Begonias thrive in partial shade or filtered sunlight, so avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
Over time, continue to care for the begonia bulbs by monitoring their watering needs, providing appropriate light conditions, and fertilizing them regularly. As they grow, you may need to repot them again if they outgrow their containers. This can usually be done every one to two years, depending on the growth rate of the begonias.
Remember that each begonia variety may have slightly different care requirements, so it’s always beneficial to research the specific needs of the begonia bulbs you have. Additionally, personal experiences and observations can provide valuable insights into the best practices for transplanting and caring for begonia bulbs.
