As a horticulture and landscaping expert , I can assure you that it is possible to leave begonia in pot over wintertime . However , there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to see the wellness and survival of your begonias during the cold month .
One option is to bring your pot begonias indoors for the wintertime . Begonias are tropical plants and are not frost - resistant , so it is all important to protect them from freezing temperatures . get a desirable indoor location , such as a sunny windowpane or a greenhouse , where the begonia can pick up adequate light and warmheartedness . Be sure to acclimate the plants to the indoor environment gradually to prevent shock . This can be done by gradually reducing their exposure to outdoor conditions over a week or two .
Before take the begonia indoors , it is important to scrutinise the industrial plant for any signs of pest or diseases . Remove any idle or damaged leaves , and consider treating the plants with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide , if necessary . This will help oneself prevent any potential problems from spreading to other indoor industrial plant .
Once indoors , it is important to provide the begonias with the right experimental condition . They generally opt bright , indirect spark , so placing them near a window with filtered sunlight is idealistic . Keep the temperature around 60 - 70 ° F ( 15 - 21 ° light speed ) and maintain a temperate level of humidity . ward off placing the plants near drafts or sources of heat , as uttermost alteration in temperature can stress the begonias .
Watering is another all-important aspect of overwinter begonias indoors . While they do not postulate as much water supply during the sleeping period , it is important to keep the soil slightly moist . Check the wet level on a regular basis by inserting your finger’s breadth into the grime , and piddle when the top in feels dry . Be careful not to overwater , as this can lead to solution rot . Applying a level of mulch on top of the territory can help retain moisture and regulate temperature .
If you prefer to keep your begonia outside in commode during the winter , there is an substitute method acting you may sample . This method involves storing the begonia tubers or rootstalk in a cool , teetotal place . In late autumn , after the foliage has croak back naturally or after the first frost , carefully lift the begonia from the flock . Gently shake off excess filth and grant the tubers to dry out for a few days . Once dry , pack them in a container with peat moss , vermiculite , or dry sand to preclude them from dry out completely .
Store the container in a cool , dour place with a temperature between 40 - 50 ° F ( 4 - 10 ° hundred ) . delay the genus Tuber sporadically during storage to ensure they are not waste or drying out . If you note any signs of disintegration , absent the affected tubers instantly to prevent the spread of disease .
In other fountain , around 6 - 8 week before the last Robert Frost day of the month in your arena , you may start preparing to plant the begonia tubers again . Gently murder them from storage and plant them in fresh , well - draining soil in pots . water system slenderly at first , gradually increase the frequency as the plant start to grow .
By following these guidelines , you could successfully winter your begonia in sight either by bring them indoors or by storing the tubers . think to cater the right condition , monitor for pests and diseases , and aline lacrimation accordingly . With proper care , your begonia will thrive and convey you joy for many seasons to come .
Caroline Bates