Use and Care Manual

Begonias
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.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 9 -12 although they may over-winter in zones as cool as Zone 7, if they have some protection
and the winter is mild. They are not frost tolerant. For winter you can bring them in and grow them as houseplants, in
a bright, direct light window
Sun Exposure/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.
Mature Plant Size
In general, most are between 12-16” H x 12 - 16 “W.
Bloom Period
Begonias start blooming in mid-spring and will repeat bloom until frost. Deadheading is normally not required
Growing Tips
Soil: Begonias prefer a slightly acid soil of about 5.8 to 6.5 but are tolerant of most soil types
Caring for Begonias
Begonias are not heavy feeders, but a light feeding with your favorite fertilizer, every 2 - 4 weeks, will keep them
vigorous.
Pests & Problems of Begonias
For the most part, most Begonias are not prone insect infestation when grown outdoors or Indoors
There are a few fungal and bacterial diseases to look out for, mainly:
• Gray Mold/Botrytis, which causes grayish fuzz on the leaves and eventually a slimy mush, especially in humid or
damp weather.