Growing Begonias From Corms

Of all the varieties of plants, begonias maybe among the most versatile and beautiful. They bring vibrant color and texture to gardens, patios, and indoor spaces. Growing begonias from corms is a very rewarding process that allows the gardener to really be in touch with how beautiful these are. It will guide you through everything you need to know about growing from begonia corms, from the correct variety to make sure they thrive in your environment.

Learn more about Begonia Corms

This is a small, bulb-like structure in tubers, underground storage of a plant that provides nutrition while a plant has been in dormant status, growing during a yearly basis. This form of storage organe is closely related to and common for using tuberous begonias grown because of showy flowers and stunning foliage.

Growing Begonias from Corm

Less expensive often compared with having bought a mature plants.

  1. Variety: You can grow a wider variety of begonias from corms.
  2. Control: You can control the whole growing process, and you will have healthy plants.
  3. Sustainability: With proper care, corms can be made to bloom year after year.

Choosing and Preparing Corms

Choosing the Right Corms

When buying begonia corms, choose those that are:

  1. Firm and Plump: Avoid corms that are shriveled or soft.
  2. Healthy: Check for signs of mold, rot, or damage.
  3. Appropriately Sized: Larger corms generally result in more vigorous plants and flowers.

Preparing Corms for Planting

  1. Check the Corms: They should be free of damage and disease.
  2. Soak the Corms: Soaking corms in lukewarm water for a few hours before planting can hydrate them and speed up sprouting.
  3. Identify the Top Side: The concave side, which has small depressions or eyes, is where the shoots will emerge.

Planting Begonia Corms

Timing

Ideal timing is late winter to early spring. Planting begonia corms, 8 to 12 weeks before the last expected frost allows them time for developing roots, starting their sprout indoors and waiting with eager anticipation of being moved outside.

Materials Needed

  1. Shallow trays or pots having drainage holes.
  2. Lightweight potting mix where aeration and moisture retention are very good.

How to Plant Begonias Step by Step

Fill the trays or pots with moist potting mix to about an inch from the top.

Planting Corms: Lay the corms on the surface of the soil, with their concave side upwards. Leave enough space between each so that they don’t touch or overlap at all; this space should be about 2-3 inches at least.

Topdressing: Add a thin layer of soil and just expose their tops slightly above the surface.

Lightly Water: Soil should be watered with a watering can so not to make it moistened more than the needed amount.

Heat and Brightness: Pots should be placed at a warm and bright location (65-75 F) but not under direct sunlight.

Begonia Corm Care

Watering

  1. Period of Moderation: Soil just damp but not wetted.
  2. Period of Growth: When shoots begin to appear, the frequency of watering in order to make the soil moist steadily.
  3. Do not Overwater Such moistures may develop rot.

Lighting Requirements

  1. Indoor lighting; bright, indirect.
  2. Outdoors: Once transplanted, place begonias in a location with partial shade or dappled sunlight.

Fertilizing

Start fertilizing once the plants have developed a few leaves. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Transplanting Outdoors

Wait for once the frost threat is over, and the plants grow strong shoots to be transplanted out of the indoors environment.

Preparation of Garden Bed

  1. Choose an Appropriate Spot: An ideal spot must be rich in well-draining soil with partial shades.
  2. Soil Amendment: Incorporate compost or manure that is very well-rotted in the soil.
  3. Harden Off the Plants: Move the plants to outdoor conditions by bringing them outside for a few hours a day for a week.

Transplanting Procedure

  1. Dig holes slightly larger than the corms.
  2. Plant the corms or young plants into the holes. The shoots should be above the soil.
  3. Water and top-dress with soil.
  4. Mulch around the plants in a layer around the plants. This will prevent moisture loss and soil temperature regulation.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Deadheading and Pruning

  1. Remove spent flowers to promote more flowering.
  2. Remove any damaged or diseased foliage.

Pest and Disease Management

  1. Aphids, slugs, spider mites. Spray organic or chemical controls as needed.
  2. Diseases: Avoid fungal diseases by providing good air circulation and avoiding watering overhead.

Winterizing Corms

  1. In regions with colder climates, begonia corms must be dug in during winter.
  2. Wait for the foliage to die back naturally.
  3. Tug out the corms carefully and remove as much excess soil on its surface as possible.
  4. Spread the corms around in a shaded area, preferably a cool and dry one, for a few days.
  5. Put the corms in a container filled with dry peat moss or sawdust in a cool, dark location.

Playing with Your Begonias

Given proper care, begonias grown from corms will thrill you with gorgeous flowers and exquisite foliage all summer long. They are suitable for planting in garden beds, hanging baskets, or decorative pots, adding charm and elegance to a space. This guide will ensure begonias thrive and become a highlight of your gardening endeavors.

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