Begonia semperflorens

Sowing and growing guidance for strong, compact plants

Raise Begonia semperflorens seeds indoors well before the last frost with gentle warmth. Surface-sow on fine, moist seed compost; do not cover, as light aids germination. Keep evenly moist with good airflow at 20–24°C. Prick out carefully and grow on in bright conditions. Harden off and transplant after all frost risk has passed; in mild climates, set out when nights are warm. Choose full sun to light shade, offering shade in intense heat. Plant into well-drained, humus-rich soil that stays consistently moist but never waterlogged. Maintain compact growth with bright light, modest feeding, and adequate spacing for airflow; avoid crowding and follow packet guidance.

• Surface-sow the fine seed; press in lightly, do not cover; maintain 20–24°C and steady moisture with light.
• Harden off gradually; transplant only after frost risk, into humus-rich, free-draining soil.
• Full sun to light shade; provide shade in heat, water at soil level, and allow good airflow to keep growth compact.
• Suitable for containers; compact habit suits pots and window boxes.
• Ornamental value with a neat habit and prolonged flowering.
• Potentially toxic if ingested; handle and site with care.

How do you grow Begonia semperflorens from seed?

Use a fine, sterile seed-starting mix and pre‑moisten it so it is damp but not soggy. Sprinkle the dust‑fine seed onto the surface; do not cover, as light aids germination. Enclose trays with a clear dome or film to maintain humidity and keep them in bright, indirect light with gentle warmth. Aim for evenly warm conditions and steady moisture; bottom‑water or mist to avoid disturbing seed. Vent daily to reduce damping‑off. Germination typically occurs in 1–3 weeks. Transplant tiny seedlings to small cells once they have 2–3 true leaves, pot on as roots fill, and grow on in bright light until outdoor conditions are suitable.

When should wax begonia seeds be sown indoors?

Sow indoors well before the final expected frost so plants are sturdy by planting time, often around 10–12 weeks ahead. Provide gentle, consistent warmth and bright light during this period. Move seedlings to their outdoor position only after all frost risk has passed and when nights are consistently mild; in mild climates, setting out is suitable once night temperatures remain warm and soils are no longer cold and wet.

Do wax begonias grow better in shade or sun?

Wax begonias tolerate full sun to light shade. In cool, temperate conditions they flower well with more sun, while in heat they appreciate light or afternoon shade to prevent scorch and stress. Aim for bright light overall, with protection from intense midday sun during hot spells. Too much deep shade can reduce flowering and make plants lanky; too much exposed heat can lead to leaf scorch and wilting.

What is the best soil for wax begonias in containers?

Use a well‑drained, humus‑rich potting mix that holds consistent moisture without waterlogging. A fine‑textured peat or coir base blended with perlite or fine bark promotes both aeration and moisture retention. Ensure containers have ample drainage holes and avoid heavy garden soil, which can compact and stay wet. Incorporating a small amount of mature compost supports steady growth. Keep the mix evenly moist; allow only the top surface to begin drying between waterings.

What spacing is recommended for bedding wax begonias?

These compact plants are typically set 15–25 cm apart, depending on the cultivar and desired fill. Tighter spacing (around 15 cm) creates a quick, solid edging, while 20–25 cm improves airflow and reduces disease risk, especially in humid or shaded beds. Plant at the same depth as in pots, keep foliage off wet soil where possible, and avoid crowding around the plant crowns to maintain good circulation.

What are good tips for transplanting begonias after frost?

Harden off seedlings for 7–10 days by gradually increasing outdoor exposure in a sheltered, bright spot. Transplant only after all frost risk has passed and soils are workable and warm. Choose an overcast day or late afternoon, and plant at the same depth as grown in containers. Water in gently to settle roots, maintain steady moisture, and mulch lightly with fine organic material to buffer temperature and conserve water. Provide light shade for a few days in hot, sunny conditions to reduce transplant stress.

Guidance here is compiled from established horticultural references and practical trials. It is general in nature; outcomes vary with microclimate, soil structure, drainage, exposure, and seasonal conditions such as frost and heat intensity. Sowing and care timings are best aligned to local conditions (for example, after the last frost or when soil is workable). Product pages include variety-specific instructions, including spacing, depth, and any preparation details for the listed item.

Tips for Sowing and Growing Wax Begonias

Begonia semperflorens seeds are fine and light-sensitive, so sow on the surface of a sterile, well-draining mix and mist gently rather than covering with compost. Maintain steady warmth, ideally around 20–24°C, and provide bright, indirect light to encourage even germination. Keep humidity moderate and avoid waterlogging. Seedlings can be pricked out once they develop true leaves, then grown on in small cells. Transplant outdoors only after the last frost, or earlier under protection, spacing plants about 15–20 cm apart for compact bedding or container displays. Choose a humus-rich, free-draining substrate and water consistently so the medium remains slightly moist. In hot, dry periods, light afternoon shade helps prevent stress; in cooler, overcast conditions, brighter exposure promotes sturdy growth. Occasional dilute, balanced feeding supports continuous flowering. Deadhead spent blooms and remove tired foliage to maintain a tidy habit and extend the display. In mild climates, autumn sowing under cover may be possible for an earlier start the following season.