How do you care for rhizomatous begonias?

Rhizomatous begonias grow best in light shade or indirect light but can tolerate morning sun. Plants thrive in rich, organic, well-drained soil that is moist but not wet. A layer of organic mulch or leaf litter often is enough to provide basic conditions for growth in most soils if they are well-drained.

Do rhizomatous begonias go dormant?

Rhizomatous Begonias Begonias in this group like to be kept lightly moist and lightly fertilized all winter and do not go dormant, so never dry them out entirely. Most are winter flowering and can provide not only beautiful foliage but also sprays of white to pink flowers in late winter.

How do you divide rhizomatous begonias?

Pull up the horizontal rhizome of the begonia from the soil. Make cutting sections on the rhizome with a sharp, lean paring knife about 1 to 2 inches in length. Make sure at least one leaf scar, leaf stem base or growing bud is on each section. Remove leaf stems from cutting sections.

Will begonias come back year after year?

This results in at least four months of blooms a year and if looked after properly, they will come back year after year so one purchase will give years of enjoyment in your garden. Begonias are extremely versatile and can be used in different ways.

How do you repot a begonias?

Use a soilless planting medium that is equal parts peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Amend the medium with a couple of tablespoons of ground limestone to help control humidity. Mix together well and moisten with water. Gently remove the begonia from its container and immediately transplant it into the new medium.

Can begonias stay outside in winter?

You can leave begonias in the garden over winter if the type you have is hardy in your zone, or it never gets below 50° F outside. Otherwise they must be brought indoors.

How long do begonias live for?

2 to 3 years
RULES OF THUMB No begonia has a long life span. Most only live for 2 to 3 years, even with good care. Cane begonias such as angel wings go dormant if the temperature gets too cool.