Begonias ( Begonia ) are exotic and magnificent flowers, suitable for growing in flowerpots, baskets, balcony boxes, as well as in gardens and green spaces. They are one of the few abundantly flowering flowers that can be planted equally well in sun, shade and partial shade; begonias will bloom well in both sunny and wet summers.
Do you know?
Begonias are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Central America, Asia, and Africa. There are over 2,000 species of begonias worldwide, belonging to the Begoniaceae family. It is one of the largest plant genera in the tropics, and new species of begonias are still being discovered.
Breeders have created more than 10,000 varieties to produce plants with different flower shapes, leaves, and sizes – from mini begonias for indoors to begonias with luxurious large flowers. Begonias are so diverse that everyone can find the right one for them!
How to navigate the diversity of begonias?
Begonias are usually divided into three large groups:
1. Camellia begonias ( Tuberous Begonias ) includes all types of begonias grown from rubber: trailing, multi-flowered, fringed, fragrant, double begonias.
·Grows from tubers that are dug up in the fall and stored in a cool place (up to + 5 0 C);
·Camellia begonias have large and bright flowers, suitable for flower pots and baskets;
Examples : Begonia x tuberhybrida ; Begonia boliviensis
2. Everflowering begonias ( Begonia semperflorens) or fibrous-rooted begonia gets its name from the Latin word " semperflorens ", which means "always blooming", thus describing its property of blooming for a long time - from spring until autumn frosts.
·It is one of the most popular begonia species, especially in gardens, flower beds and balcony boxes, better known as the ice flower;
· Begonia benarensis is one of the newest and most hardy variations of Begonia semperflorens , bred to grow well in both sun and shade.
3. Foliage Begonias are popular houseplants for their decorative, vibrant leaves. They are perfect for creating a home jungle and adding a splash of greenery to your interior!
Planting begonias
Since begonias like warmth, the best planting season is the second half of May or early June, when the soil is warm enough. They will like loose, humus-rich garden soil, but heavy, clayey soil will not do.
Begonia care
Begonias are hardy and not demanding in terms of fertilizer – a supplemental fertilizer once a week will be enough. The main thing is not to overdo it with watering, so as not to cause rot. The good news – begonias are not liked by pests, including snails.
