When it comes to finding the best place to put a begonia, it’s important to consider their specific needs. Begonias generally thrive in dappled or partial shade, so it’s best to avoid placing them in direct sunlight, especially in south-facing spots. The foliage of begonias can easily burn if exposed to too much sun. If you’re planning to grow begonias in a greenhouse, it’s important to provide shading to protect them from excessive sunlight.
One of the great advantages of begonias is their versatility in terms of where they can be grown. Tuberous begonias, in particular, are well-suited for growing in pots and hanging baskets. This allows you to easily move them around and find the best spot for them in your garden or home.
Here are some tips for finding the ideal location for your begonias:
1. Partial shade: Look for areas in your garden that receive dappled sunlight or partial shade throughout the day. This could be under the canopy of a tree or near a building that provides some shade. Begonias appreciate a balance of light and shade, and this will help prevent their foliage from burning.
2. Avoid direct sunlight: As mentioned earlier, begonias are not fond of direct sunlight. If you have a spot in your garden that receives intense sunlight for most of the day, it’s best to avoid placing your begonias there. Instead, opt for locations that offer some protection from the sun’s rays.
3. Greenhouse considerations: If you’re growing begonias in a greenhouse, it’s crucial to monitor the amount of sunlight they receive. Greenhouses can easily become too hot and intense for begonias, so providing shading is necessary. This can be done using shade cloth or by painting the greenhouse glass with a shading compound. Aim to create an environment that mimics dappled shade.
4. Pot and hanging basket options: Tuberous begonias are particularly well-suited for containers and hanging baskets. This gives you the flexibility to place them in the most suitable location for their needs. Consider placing them on a porch, patio, or in a sheltered area where they can still receive some indirect sunlight.
5. Experiment and observe: Every garden is unique, and the best spot for your begonias may vary depending on your specific conditions. It’s always a good idea to experiment with different locations and observe how your begonias respond. Pay attention to signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves, and adjust their placement accordingly.
In my personal experience, I have found success with placing begonias in a shaded area under the canopy of a large tree. The dappled sunlight filtered through the leaves provided the perfect balance of light and shade for the begonias to thrive. I have also had great results growing tuberous begonias in hanging baskets on my porch, where they received indirect sunlight for a few hours each day.
To summarize, the best place to put a begonia is in a location that provides dappled or partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in south-facing spots, as the foliage can easily burn. Tuberous begonias are well-suited for pots and hanging baskets, allowing for flexibility in placement. Take the time to experiment and observe how your begonias respond in different locations, and make adjustments as needed.
