The most popular varieties of begonia.
- Begonia-Semperflorens hybrids or ice begonias
- Elatior begonias
- Begonia tuberhybrida or tuberous begonias
When can begonias be brought out of hibernation?
February to March is the ideal time to wake the tubers from hibernation. To do this, plant the tubers in pots with the dent facing up. The shoots later form from the dent. Those who prefer begonias on the windowsill from February onwards will harvest a plentiful sea of flowers as early as May.
also read
- Plant begonias and create a sea of flowers
- Elatior begonias - available in numerous varieties and flower colors
- Prepare the site for the begonias
What are the optimal conditions for planting begonias yourself?
Planting begonias yourself takes little work and usually works right away. Begonias prefer a cooler, partially shaded to shady location. They react to direct sunlight or blazing midday sun with brown leaves and flowers. In contrast, they feel good in moist, nutrient-rich soil.
When is the best time to plant begonias?
The best time to plant the frost-sensitive outdoor begonias is from mid-May. Depending on the variety, begonias need a distance of about 20 cm. When planting begonias, only cover the tubers with a thin layer of soil.
Lots of flowers with little care in the garden
In principle, it is relatively easy to care for begonias. If you take these two points to heart, they will thrive.
- Sufficient irrigation without waterlogging
- Long-term fertilizer or weekly fertilizer applications
So prevent water build-up in the bed, planter or saucer. And only water in such a way that the soil remains moist. Don't forget to fertilize! Adding liquid fertilizer to the irrigation water at weekly intervals is the simplest solution.
For a colorful eye-catcher on the balcony
The same rules apply to planting begonias on the balcony as in the garden. The sunny south-facing balcony is conceivably unsuitable. Begonias find the ideal place on the partially shaded north, west or east side.
It is also particularly important for begonias in pots, tubs or boxes that no backwater accumulates. It is advisable to mix the plant substrate with approx. 40% sand. Too much water seeps away faster through the permeable soil. In addition, there should be drainage holes in the bottom of the planters.
Begonias - poisonous or beneficial?
Although most species of begonia are not poisonous, these three are classified as poisonous.
- Begonia gracilis
- Begonia rex
- Begonia - Stachys betonica
The main active ingredients are calcium oxalates and oxalic acid. In humans and animals, poisoning occurs through irritated mucous membranes, increased urine excretion, vomiting and diarrhea. Begonia infusion is used as a remedy for anxiety, hysteria, neuralgia and headaches.
Tips & Tricks
Do you want to pamper your begonia every now and then? Then refresh them with a lukewarm shower from the spray bottle. This drives the fresh green shoots straight up into the sky or makes them snake faster along the ground.
