Planting Begonias

Where to plant begonias?

Begonias are true gems for the garden or for pots thanks to their magnificent flowering and decorative foliage. Here are some tips to find them the perfect little spot:

• They prefer bright but indirect light. Outdoors, choose a location that benefits from filtered light or morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer regions. Indoors, a window facing east or west is ideal.
• Begonias do not tolerate frost. If you live in an area where winters are cold, consider planting them in pots so you can bring them indoors during the coldest months.

Which substrate should I choose for my begonia?

• Choose a fresh, well-drained, rich and light soil. Begonias are sensitive to heavy and very moist soils, so lighten if necessary with sand and turf.
• Apply fertiliser at planting, then twice a month during the season. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging to avoid overfeeding, which could be harmful to them.

How to plant begonias?

• As with Dahlias, you can speed up the cycle of your begonias by planting them in pots as early as February, keeping them sheltered, and bringing them out in May.

→ Follow our tips to find out how to force a tuberous begonia.

• Plant them after the last frosts, spaced 25 cm apart in the ground or one tubercle per pot of about 20 cm.
• Plant the begonia with the hollow side facing up, and cover with 5 cm of soil.
• Water very regularly and remove faded flowers.
• Lift the bulbs in autumn, before the first frosts, and store them in turf in a dry, frost-free place over winter.