Can You Keep Begonias Over The Winter

Winter's Coming, But Don't Pack Up Your Begonias Just Yet

So, you've been doting on your begonias all summer, and now Old Man Winter's knocking at the door. You might be thinking, "Time to say goodbye to my little beauties, right?" Well, not so fast. Let's talk about keeping these tropical treasures thriving even when the frost is nipping at your nose.

First Things First: A Little Begonia History

Begonias have been around for centuries, with over 1,800 species and countless cultivars. They're named after Michel Bégon, a 17th-century French governor of the island of Réunion, who was a big fan of these plants. Fun fact: Some begonias can grow in water like aquatic plants. Imagine having a little underwater garden in your home!

Understanding Your Begonias

Before we dive into winter care, let's get to know your begonias a bit better. There are three main types: fibrous-rooted, tuberous, and rhizomatous. Fibrous-rooted are the easiest to care for, with their long, stringy roots. Tuberous ones store energy in their tubers, and rhizomatous ones have horizontal stems called rhizomes. Knowing this will help you tailor their care come winter.

Preparing for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Move Them Indoors

First things first, bring your begonias inside. They're tropical plants, so they can't handle freezing temperatures. Think of them as your houseplants for the winter. It's like they're moving into their winter vacation home!

2. Find the Perfect Spot

Place your begonias in a spot with bright, indirect light. They love the sun, but direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Think of it like finding the perfect spot on the beach - not too sunny, not too shady.

3. Adjust the Temperature

Begonias like it warm, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and a 10°F (6°C) drop at night. It's like their own little tropical paradise indoors.

4. Water Wisely

Winter's dry air can be harsh on begonias, so they'll need a bit more water than usual. But don't overdo it - they hate soggy soil. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil, and if it feels dry, it's time to water. Think of it like checking if your turkey's done - you don't want to dry it out, but you don't want it raw either.

How To Overwinter Begonia Tubers | The Tube

5. Keep Them Humid

Begonias love humidity, so you might need to give them a mist now and then. You can also place their pots on a tray filled with pebbles and water. It's like giving them a little spa day.

Winter Care Tips for Each Type

For fibrous-rooted begonias, keep them in their pots and treat them like any other houseplant. For tuberous begonias, once the leaves start to yellow (usually around fall), stop watering and let the tubers dry out. Store them in a cool, dark place until spring, then plant them again. For rhizomatous begonias, treat them like fibrous-rooted ones, but they might need a bit more water.

Winter's Not All Bad, You Know

Winter might be harsh on begonias, but it's also a great time for them to rest. It's like their own little hibernation. Plus, it gives you a chance to focus on other plants or even start some new projects. Think of it as a chance to switch up your plant parenting routine.

Reflecting on the Season

Caring for begonias through the winter is a bit like life, isn't it? It's about adapting, finding the right balance, and making the most of what we've got. So, here's to your begonias, and here's to you, for giving them a fighting chance this winter. After all, a little TLC can go a long way.