How to Transplant Begonias

Most gardeners are familiar with the tried-and-true begonia plant. Although begonias are common landscaping plants, several different varieties make up this plant species, which is available in annuals and perennials. Some perennial varieties grow from tubers beneath the soil and other wax varieties are small plants that last for one season. Whatever the variety, when begonias must be moved from one place to another, transplant them carefully to avoid damaging the plants or disrupting the growth.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• New container or growing area
• Potting soil
• Trowel
• Shovel
• All-purpose fertilizer

1. Prepare the growing area or the new container before pulling the begonias from their current growing location. Dig holes at the same depth they are currently growing if transplanting in the soil, or fill a planting container approximately half-way with potting soil.
2. Remove the begonias from their current location by inserting the trowel beneath the roots of the plant. Work the trowel under the plant until the complete root system or tuber is loosened from the soil, taking care not to cause any damage to the plant.
3. Lift the begonia from the soil and transfer it to the new growing location. Place the begonia into the prepared hole. Fill in around the plant with soil. Tamp the soil down firmly.
4. Provide enough water to saturate the soil without creating puddles immediately after transplanting the begonia. Keep the begonia plant evenly moist during the first two weeks after transplanting to ensure the plant acclimates to the new growing location.
5. Fertilize the begonia approximately one month after transplanting as long as the begonia is growing and thriving. Mix the fertilizer with water, according to package recommendations, and pour it carefully around the plant, taking care not to splash fertilizer onto the plant foliage.