Growing Begonia (Fibrous Begonia)

Pronunciation: beg-own'ee-uh     

Fibrous Begonias are a diverse group known for their colorful flowers, compact shape, and rounded green, bronze, or variegated leaves. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, they are grown as annuals in cooler areas where they are not hardy. A widely popular bedding and container plant, fibrous Begonias provide a continuous display of color throughout the growing season. With no deadheading of spent blooms required, these Begonias are low maintenance plants making them carefree and well adapted to a variety of garden settings.

Light/Watering: Fibrous Begonias flower well in partial shade to full sun. Bronze-leaved varieties are more suited to full sun. Water moderately once or twice a week during the warmer season.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Plant in well-drained soil high in organic matter. Use an all-purpose fertilizer for annuals monthly during the warmer season.

Pests/Diseases: Fibrous Begonias can occasionally be troubled by slugs. Use slug bait, dishes of beer, and diatomaceous earth to discourage them.

Companions: An exceptional container plant, fibrous Begonias pair well with colorful foliage plants such as Caladium, Coleus, and Ipomoea. Or combine in mass plantings with Impatiens and Fuchsia in the garden.

End-of-Season Care: Can be brought indoors in winter in cold climates, and kept in a sunny window.

For information on planting and care of annuals, click here.