Begonia odorosa red

Begonia bulbs, more accurately called tubers, are started indoors in spring before being planted outside after the risk of frost has passed. Begin them in March or April in a warm, bright place, using free-draining compost. Once the shoots are growing well and outdoor temperatures have warmed up, they can be moved into pots, containers, beds or hanging baskets. Do not put begonia tubers outside too early, as cold temperatures and frost can damage new growth.

Begonia tubers need warmth to begin growing, so they may appear slow at first. Cold compost, frost, too much water or allowing the compost to dry out completely can all stop growth or cause young plants to fail. Plant the tuber with its hollow side facing upwards and keep the compost lightly moist, not wet. Once growing, begonias need regular watering, but standing water around the roots can lead to rot. Keep them frost-free until they are well established outside.

Begonia tubers are naturally flatter and more irregular in shape than traditional flower bulbs, so they can look surprisingly small or uneven when they arrive. A dry outer surface is normal while the tuber is dormant. What matters is that the tuber feels firm and solid, with no soft patches, wet rot or heavy mould. The small hollow or dimple on one side is the growing point and should face upwards when planting. Plant tubers promptly and keep them somewhere frost-free before starting them into growth.

Your begonias should flower in the colour and style described on the product page. However, flower colour can look slightly different depending on sunlight, temperature and screen settings when viewing photographs online. A healthy begonia grown in good light, with regular watering and feeding through the summer, will give the strongest colour and flowering display. Avoid placing the plant in harsh, scorching conditions or letting it repeatedly dry out, as this can affect both flower quality and how long blooms last.

Yes, begonia tubers are well suited to pots and containers, where they can be moved into a sheltered position if the weather turns cold. Use a pot with drainage holes and fresh, free-draining compost. Not every begonia has the same growth habit, so check the product description to see whether it is best for borders, pots or hanging baskets. Keep the compost evenly moist during active growth and remove faded flowers to encourage a longer summer display.