How to Care for Potted Begonias

Overview

Tuberous begonia plants are native to the Andes Mountains and prefer an environment that is high in humidity with cool night temperatures. Begonia plants produce blooms up to 8 inches in size during the summer and fall months. The plants prefer morning sun or late-afternoon sun and should be shaded during the hottest part of the day. Begonia plants may take three months to produce a bloom after planting and can be started indoors in March to speed up the process.

Step 1

Find a pot that will fit the size of begonia tuber being potted. The pot should fit the tuber with approximately 2 inches of space on each side. Begonias should not be planted in a pot that is too large because it holds too much moisture for proper tuber growth.

Step 2

Plant begonia plants in a well draining, nutrient rich potting soil in late spring after the last frost.

Step 3

Place the begonia plant in a location that receives full morning sun to partial shade.

Step 4

Water the begonia plant regularly to keep the soil moist. Do not over water as this will cause stem rot. Do not pour water onto the foliage.

Step 5

Apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer once active growth is present and continue to apply every two weeks. Change to a 0-10-10 fertilizer application every two weeks once the flower buds are set.

Step 6

Deadhead the plant by cutting off the blooms once they have faded.

Step 7

Remove tubers in the fall in non-hardy growing areas once the foliage begins to turn yellow. Air dry the tuber and stems in a shaded indoor location. Remove dried flower stems or tops from the tuber. Set the tubers in a box filled with peat moss and place in a dark location that has a temperature between 35 to 45 degrees F.