Tuberous Begonia, a beautiful and diverse group within the Begonia family (Begoniaceae), was discovered by Richard Pearce in 1864. Let’s delve into more details about Tuberous Begonias and how to grow them successfully:
- Tuberous Begonia Varieties: Tuberous Begonias encompass a wide range of varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. These include single-flowering, double-flowering, daffodil-like, pendulous, single-frilled, and camellia-like forms. The flowers exhibit a spectrum of colors, ranging from delicate whites and yellows to vibrant oranges, pinks, and reds. Some Tuberous Begonias even possess a delightful fragrance. Additionally, there are bi-colored varieties that offer captivating combinations of hues.
- Phototropic Nature and Day Length Regulation: Tuberous Begonias are phototropic plants, meaning they respond to the direction and intensity of light. They are also influenced by day length, which regulates their active growing season. Understanding their light requirements and the influence of day length can help optimize their growth and flowering.
The Begonia genus, named after Michel Bégon, a governor of the French colony Saint-Domingue, has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century.
How to grow Tuberous Begonia:
- Light and Shade Requirements: Tuberous Begonias thrive when grown in filtered sunlight or light shade. While they appreciate some direct morning sun, excessive exposure to intense sunlight can scorch their delicate flowers. Providing them with a shaded or partially shaded location protects them from the harsh midday sun.
- Soil Conditions: Plant Tuberous Begonias in organic, fertile soil that is rich in humus. The soil should be well-drained and evenly moist, preventing waterlogging and root rot. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, enhances the soil’s fertility and moisture-retaining capacity.
- Watering: When starting Tuberous Begonia plants, water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. During their active growth, provide regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
- Regular Fertilization: Tuberous Begonias are heavy-flowering plants that rely on stored food in their tubers. To support their prolific blooming, it’s essential to regularly fertilize them during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for flowering plants, following the package instructions for dosage and frequency.
- Flower Maintenance: As Tuberous Begonias produce male and female flowers on the same plant, it’s advisable to remove the single female flowers that typically appear alongside the showy male flowers.
- Removing the single female flowers that appear alongside the showy male flowers helps redirect the plant’s energy toward enhancing the development and longevity of the remaining blooms. By removing the female flowers, you allow the plant to focus its resources on producing larger and more vibrant flowers. This practice can result in a more impressive display of blooms throughout the season.
- Pests and Diseases: While Tuberous Begonias are generally resilient plants, they can occasionally face challenges from pests and diseases. Common pests that may affect them include vine weevils, leafhoppers, aphids, and caterpillars. Regularly inspect the plants for any signs of infestation and take appropriate measures, such as using organic pest control methods or insecticidal soaps, if necessary. Tuberous Begonias can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, petal blight, and diseases like silver leaf and honey fungus. Monitor the plants for any symptoms, and promptly address any issues to maintain their health.
Propagation Methods:
Tuberous Begonias can be propagated through seeds or by dividing the tubers. To propagate from tubers, carefully cut them into sections using a sharp knife, ensuring each section has an intact bud. Plant the tuber sections in pots or trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. Indoors, start the tubers in late winter, providing warmth and moisture until they sprout. Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant the established plants outdoors.
Dormancy Period: Tuberous Begonias naturally go dormant in autumn as the days become shorter. If grown outdoors, they should be dug out before the arrival of frost. After digging, gently clean the tubers and store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season. Properly stored tubers will rejuvenate and regrow when conditions are favorable.
In addition to their beauty, Tuberous Begonias have been enjoyed by gardeners and flower enthusiasts for centuries. With proper care, attention to their light and soil requirements, and timely maintenance, you can cultivate these stunning plants to flourish and grace your garden, containers, or hanging baskets with their dazzling array of colors and forms.
