Begonias are very popular summer bedding plants, and you are probably wondering why we are making a distinction between the bronze leaf and the green leaf begonia.  The answer to that is the bronze leaf begonia will take more sun than the green leaved variety. The flowers are traditionally pink, red or white.  The glossy foliage and continuous blooms make for a versatile bedding plant throughout summer.

When To Plant:  April or May for the best summer display.

Where To Plant:  They make good border plants, container plants and window-boxes.  Begonias like fertile, moist soils with good drainage.  The green leaved varieties do best in morning sun and some filtered afternoon sun.

How To Plant: Plant them the depth as they are in their pots, but dig the holes a little wider and loosen the soil slightly.  Mulch them in lightly, and keep them watered. 

Care and Maintenance:

• Begonias seldom need pruning.
• Supplemental feedings will promote good growth and blooms.
• They are considered drought tolerant, but mulching is a good idea, and irrigation in the heat of summer is helpful.
• Don't plant them too early in the spring; cooler temperatures tend to make them rot.
• Powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases are potential problems.
• Mealy bugs and thrips are possible insect problems.