Master the art of begonias: Planting and care essentials
Begonias are one of the most popular ornamental plants, admired for their diverse colours and forms. Learn when it's best to plant them and how to provide optimal growth conditions.
Begonias have been popular among gardening enthusiasts for years. Their extraordinary variety of colours and forms allows them to easily fit into many garden arrangements. Begonia varieties can differ not only in flower colour but also in leaf shape, making them particularly attractive.
Begonias are perennial plants that can be grown both in pots and directly in the ground. They are easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for novice gardeners. However, to enjoy their beauty throughout the season, it's worth learning a few basic principles about their cultivation.
Optimal conditions for planting begonias
Planting begonias requires proper soil preparation and choosing the right location. Begonias prefer semi-shaded positions, where they are not exposed to direct sunlight. Too much sun can lead to leaf burns and weaken the plant.
The soil in which we plant begonias should be fertile, well-drained, rich in humus, and slightly acidic. Before planting, it's advisable to enrich the soil with fresh or granulated compost, which will provide the plants with the right amount of nutrients. The best time to plant begonias in pots is spring. If we want begonias to bloom in mid-May, we should plant them in pots as early as February. Remember that the later we plant, the later they will bloom. After planting in containers, it's best not to place them outside, as they won't have the right conditions to thrive, and even small frosts can damage the plant.
We plant begonia bulbs in the ground no earlier than the second half of May, when there's no risk of frost. Begonias planted at this time will bloom in the second half of summer. You can also plant ready, blooming seedlings.
How to care for begonias after planting?
After planting begonias, it’s crucial to provide them with appropriate care so they can grow healthily and bloom. Regular watering is essential, as begonias do not tolerate drought well. A lack of water causes flowers to wilt quickly. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, and begonias do not respond well to waterlogged roots. Spraying leaves is also not recommended.
Fertilizing begonias should be moderate. It's wise to use phosphorus-rich fertilizers, which support blooming. Fertilizing every 2-3 weeks during the growth period will provide the plants with essential nutrients. It's also important to remove wilted flowers to encourage the plants to produce new buds.
