How to Propagate Tuberous Begonias

Tuberous begonia (Begonia x tuberhybrida), is a popular landscape plant valued for its beauty and ability to provide bright color in partially shady areas. Available in a range of sizes in nearly every shade except blue, and in both cascading and upright varieties, tuberous begonias will bloom until the weather turns cold in autumn. The dark, shiny foliage is attractive, providing contrast with the flowers. Tuberous begonias aren’t difficult to propagate from stem cuttings. Propagate begonias in March for summer blooms.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Sharp knife
• Planting container with drainage hole
• Damp sand
• Powdered rooting hormone
• Plastic bag
• Rubber band
• Spray bottle
• Container, 6 inches to 8 inches in height
• Commercial potting soil

1. Use a sharp knife to cut a stem tip 3 to 4 inches in length from a healthy tuberous begonia. Cut the stem 1/4 inch below a leaf. Make sure the stem has at least two leaves.
2. Fill a planting container with damp sand. Any container with a drainage hole in the bottom will work. Strip the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, and then dip the cut end of the stem in powdered rooting hormone. Plant the stem in the damp sand.
3. Cover the container with a plastic bag and secure the plastic with a rubber band. Place the cutting in bright, indirect sunlight. Room temperature should be approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The cutting shouldn’t need to be watered until the plastic is removed, but if the soil appears dry, mist lightly inside the bag. The stem should take root and begin to send out new growth in about five weeks. Remove the plastic at this time.
4. Transplant the begonia into a 6-inch or 8-inch container filled with commercial potting soil when new shoots are 3 to 4 inches tall, or plant the begonia in your garden. Select a spot with well-drained soil and partial shade, where the plant will be protected from hot afternoon sunlight.
5. Water the begonia deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry before the next watering. Check container begonias daily during hot weather.