Winterizing Begonias: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving the Cold

As the days grow shorter and temperatures dip, it’s time to prepare your beloved begonia plants for the winter. This essential process ensures their survival and allows them to thrive when spring returns. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the step-by-step instructions on how to winter a begonia plant, ensuring its optimal health and longevity.

1. Choose the Right Wintering Method:

There are two primary methods for wintering begonias: indoors or outdoors.

Indoor Wintering:

• Benefits: Protection from extreme cold and frost
• Drawbacks: Requires space and controlled conditions

Outdoor Wintering:

• Benefits: Natural dormancy and less maintenance
• Drawbacks: Requires careful preparation and protection from freezing temperatures

2. Prepare Your Begonias for Winter:

Before the first frost, take these steps to prepare your begonias:

• Reduce Watering: Gradually decrease watering to allow the soil to dry out slightly.
• Fertilize Lightly: Apply a light dose of liquid fertilizer to boost their resilience.
• Prune: Remove dead or diseased foliage and stems.

3. Digging Up and Storing Begonia Tubers (for Tuberous Begonias):

• Dig Up Tubers: Carefully dig up the tubers after the foliage has died back.
• Clean and Dry: Remove excess soil and gently clean the tubers. Allow them to dry in a warm, dry place.
• Store: Place the tubers in a paper bag or cardboard box filled with dry peat moss or vermiculite. Store them in a cool, dark place with temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C).

4. Overwintering Rhizomatous Begonias:

• Trim Foliage: Cut back the foliage to about 2-3 inches above the soil line.
• Mulch: Cover the soil around the rhizomes with a thick layer of organic mulch, such as bark or compost.
• Protect from Cold: Insulate the plants with a layer of straw or burlap to protect them from freezing temperatures.

5. Overwintering Rex Begonias:

• Bring Indoors: Move Rex begonias indoors before the first frost.
• Provide Bright Light: Place them in a bright, indirect light location.
• Water Sparingly: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

6. Overwintering Cane-Type Begonias:

• Cut Back Stems: Trim back stems to about 6-8 inches in length.
• Store in Cool, Dark Place: Place the plants in a cool, dark location with temperatures between 50-60°F (10-16°C).
• Water Occasionally: Mist the soil lightly every few weeks to prevent it from drying out completely.

7. Monitoring and Care During Winter:

• Check Regularly: Monitor your begonias throughout the winter for any signs of pests or disease.
• Water Sparingly: Water only when the soil is completely dry to the touch.
• Avoid Fertilizing: Do not fertilize the plants during winter.

Wrapping Up:

Winterizing begonia plants is a crucial step in ensuring their survival and future growth. By following these comprehensive instructions, you can safeguard your beloved plants from the harsh winter elements and prepare them to flourish when spring arrives. Remember to choose the appropriate wintering method, prepare your begonias for winter, and provide them with the necessary care during the cold months. With proper care, your begonias will emerge from winter stronger and more vibrant than ever before.

Questions You May Have

1. How do I know when it’s time to winterize my begonias?

• When temperatures start to drop below 50°F (10°C) or when the first frost is expected.

2. Can I leave my begonias outdoors during winter?

• Only if you live in a frost-free climate or if you provide adequate protection from freezing temperatures.

3. How often should I water my begonias during winter?

• Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry to the touch.

4. Do I need to fertilize my begonias during winter?

• No, do not fertilize your begonias during winter.

5. What are common pests and diseases to watch out for during winter?

• Mealybugs, aphids, and root rot.