There are more than 1,300 species of begonia ( Begoniaspp . ) in the familyBegoniaceaethat are get for their showy blooms . The Tuberosa Group of begonias , which are often note asBegoniaxtuberhybrida , includes a type of begonia that grows from swollen underground staunch .
Most tuberous begonias can live winters in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 , although hardy begonia ( Begonia grandis ) hold up cold climates as a perennial in zona 6 through 9 .
Tuberous Begonia Characteristics
Tuberous begonias are native to South America and Africa , though the works ordinarily available for leverage are intercrossed cultivar .
Tuberous begonia typically have heights between 12 and 18 in . They flower in the summertime . The flowers are waxy and 2 to 4 column inch blanket . Begonia flower colouration include yellow , apricot , pink and ruby-red , as well as white-hot . There are a change of cultivar with dissimilar bloom forms , including undivided and forked flowers .
While they can be grow from seeded player , tuberous begonias are usually produce from their underground stem , have intercourse as tubers , which is the fast method .
Is Begonia a Perennial?
Many types of begonia are perennial , although because many are frost tender , these types are often grown as annual .
In the case of tuberous begonia , you may drudge up the tubers and put in them in a ironical culture medium like vermiculite or peat moss and plant them again in belated winter or early saltation . Tuberous begonias grow in containers can be overwintered indoors .
Tip
Excessive pee and plant food can cause bloom and bud drop in begonias .
How to Care for Begonias
Begonia Pests and Diseases
Begonias are susceptible to anumber of disease , including powdery mildew , a fungal disease that produces a white , powdery substance on the leave that can be unattractive .
- Providing right spacing and air circulation can aid foreclose the growing of this disease . * * You should allow a metrical foot of infinite between begonia plant grown in the ground , though they can be planted nearer together in containers .
Allow right air circulation between begonia works to preclude powdery mildew .
It is also important not to overwater begonias and to grow them on well - drain soil , as inordinate soil moisture can cause the tuberous root to moulder .
Begonias are also prone to becoming infected by pests such as mealybug and ordered series . In addition , they can be point by thrips , which can spread viral disease such as tomato spotted wilt computer virus .
Insecticidal scoop are often used to check these pests , however , begonia may be raw . Therefore , you should examine a modest area before applying insecticidal soaps to begonias .
