When to Plant Begonias

Begonias are common flowering annuals that are grown in gardens, pots and window baskets all over the country. Many varieties are available, and begonias can adapt to a range of conditions. They are sensitive to frost, however, which makes timing an important consideration when you plant your flowers this spring.

Characteristics

• Begonias are small, bushy plants that rarely exceed 12 inches in height. They have glossy green or bronze oval-shaped leaves. The flowers vary in size, shape and color depending on variety, but they are most often some shade of red, pink or white.

Planting

• Begonias are available from seed, but they are more often grown from tubers or seedlings, according to Iowa State University. It takes 12 to 14 weeks for tubers to grow into blooming plants, so they should be started early, in indoors containers to give you a longer blooming season. Plant them about eight weeks before the last average spring frost date for your area — this information is available from university extensions in most states.

Conditions

• Use containers with drainage holes in the bottom, and fill them with a porous, well-drained potting mix. Plant begonia tubers with the indented side facing upward and cover them with 1/2 to 1 inch of soil. Water them enough to keep the soil moist but not soaking wet, and maintain a temperature of around 70 degrees F. Once the plants sprout, find a sunny location for them near a window.

Transplanting

• Once all danger of frost has passed, you can transplant your young begonias to their outdoor home, be it a garden, flower bed, hanging basket or window box. Locations with partial shade are ideal, and the soil should be moist, well-drained and fertile. Do not apply extra fertilizer if your soil is of average or better fertility.