Begonia are a classic gardeners favourite, which flower non stop during the summer period. There's a huge range of forms and types in variety of colours, so there's bound to be one or two that will tickle your fancy. They can be grown in pots, hanging baskets and in the garden.
American hybrid Begonias have smooth petaled blooms that have outstanding symmetrical form.
The flowers are exceptionally large at 10-15cm across.
Start with large, healthy Tubers or Corms, which will produce not just this year, but for many to come. Plant your summer bulbs after the last frost. Ground temperature should be about 10 deg Celsius before planting. This means in the colder southern regions planting should be August to October and in the warmer northern regions from June till September. Full sun for the best bloom production. Plant your summer bulbs where they will get 8 hours of direct sun each day. If you are in a very hot climate, be sure to provide morning sun for your dahlias, with afternoon shade. Plant your bulbs in moist, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or dry and sandy, mix through some compost or well-rotted organic material. Dig in a handful per square metre of bulb specific fertiliser (mix in thoroughly or it will burn the bulbs). Plant the tubers 8 to 12 inches apart with the indented side facing up. This is the side on which leaf sprouts will form.