Overwinter Begonias: Easy Care Tips for Survival
As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, gardeners often face the challenge of keeping their beloved begonias alive through the winter months. These tropical and subtropical plants thrive in warmth and humidity, making them susceptible to cold damage. However, with the right care, you can overwinter begonias successfully, ensuring they return to their vibrant glory come spring. Whether you’re growing tuberous, fibrous-rooted, or rhizomatous begonias, this guide provides expert tips to help your plants survive the winter with ease.
Understanding Begonia Types and Their Winter Needs
Begonias fall into three main categories, each with slightly different overwintering requirements:
- Tuberous Begonias: These are typically grown as annuals but can be saved for the next season by storing their tubers.
- Fibrous-Rooted Begonias: Often treated as houseplants in winter, they require consistent moisture and light.
- Rhizomatous Begonias: These can be overwintered as dormant rhizomes or kept actively growing indoors.
Understanding your begonia type is the first step to providing the right care.
Step-by-Step Guide to Overwintering Begonias
1. Prepare Begonias for Winter
Before the first frost, take the following steps:
- Reduce Watering: Gradually decrease water to signal the plant to enter dormancy.
- Trim Foliage: For tuberous begonias, cut back stems to 1–2 inches after the first frost.
- Dig Up Tubers: Carefully lift tubers from the soil, brush off excess dirt, and let them dry for a few days.
2. Storing Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias are best stored dormant:
- Place dry tubers in a container filled with peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite.
- Store in a cool, dark place (45–55°F or 7–13°C) with low humidity.
- Check monthly for rot or shriveling, discarding any damaged tubers.
3. Overwintering as Houseplants
Fibrous-rooted and rhizomatous begonias can be brought indoors:
- Potting: Repot into well-draining soil and place in a bright, indirect light location.
- Humidity: Use a pebble tray or humidifier to mimic their native tropical environment.
- Watering: Keep soil slightly moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
4. Managing Dormant Rhizomes
For rhizomatous begonias, you can opt for dormancy:
- Cut back foliage and store rhizomes in barely moist peat moss or sand.
- Keep in a cool, dark area until spring.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Spring Revival: Bringing Begonias Back Outdoors
- Gradual Acclimation: In early spring, slowly reintroduce plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a shaded area for a week.
- Repotting: For stored tubers, replant in fresh soil and water lightly to encourage new growth.
- Fertilization: Start feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once new leaves appear.
Expert Insights: Maximizing Begonia Survival
FAQ Section
Can I leave begonias in the ground over winter?
+In zones 7 and warmer, fibrous-rooted begonias may survive outdoors with mulch protection. Tuberous begonias, however, must be dug up and stored indoors.
How often should I water stored begonia tubers?
+Stored tubers require minimal moisture. Check monthly and lightly mist if they appear shriveled, but avoid overwatering.
Why are my indoor begonias dropping leaves in winter?
+Leaf drop can result from overwatering, low humidity, or insufficient light. Adjust care conditions and ensure proper air circulation.
Can I propagate begonias during winter?
+Yes, take stem cuttings from healthy plants and root them in water or soil under grow lights for new plants by spring.
Conclusion: A Labor of Love
Overwintering begonias requires a bit of effort, but the reward of seeing them flourish again in spring makes it well worth it. By understanding your begonia type and providing tailored care, you can ensure these stunning plants remain a centerpiece of your garden year after year. With patience and attention to detail, your begonias will not just survive—they’ll thrive.
