I. Introduction
II. What are Begonias?
III. Types of Begonias
IV. How to Overwinter Fibrous Types
V. How to Overwinter Tuberous Types
VI. Benefits of Overwintering Begonias in Pots
VII. Preparing for Winter
VIII. Tips for Care During Winter Months
IX. Troubleshooting Common Issues with Begonias in Winter
X. Conclusion
XI. Additional Resources and Further Reading

Can You Leave Begonias In Pots Over Winter?

Introduction: Winter is a time when gardeners throughout the world prepare their outdoor plants for the cold temperatures and shorter days ahead. Many plants will need to be moved indoors or stored in a cool, dark place until spring arrives, but what about begonias? Can you leave begonias in pots over winter? The answer is yes! Let’s take a look at how to overwinter begonias in pots, the benefits of doing so, and how to care for them during the winter months.

What Are Begonias?

Begonias are a genus of flowering plants that come from tropical and subtropical climates around the world. They are popular for their bright, colorful blooms, attractive foliage, and easy care requirements. There are hundreds of different varieties available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. In general though, there are two main types of begonias: fibrous-rooted and tuberous-rooted types.

Types Of Begonias

Fibrous-rooted begonias have an upright growth habit with stems that grow from a central crown at the base of the plant. They produce small flowers along the stem tips as well as attractive foliage with colorful veins or patterns on the leaves. These types can be grown as houseplants or outdoors in containers or beds during warmer weather conditions. Tuberous-rooted begonias have a trailing growth habit with long stems that produce small flowers along the sides of the stems as well as attractive foliage with colorful veins or patterns on the leaves . The tuberous begonia will die back in colder temperatures and should be brought indoors or stored dormant in a cool location during winter months .

How To Overwinter Fibrous Types

Fibrous-rooted begonias can be overwintered easily by keeping them indoors as houseplants during cold weather months . When bringing them indoors , make sure they receive plenty of bright light and water , but not too much water , as they can easily become overwatered . If possible , keep temperatures between 55°F – 65°F (13°C – 18°C). Fertilize every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients while inside .

How To Overwinter Tuberous Types

Tuberous-rooted begonias should be stored dormant during winter months . Dig up any tubers you want to save before temperatures drop below freezing , then pot them up in a container filled with dampened potting soil . Place this container somewhere cool (around 40°F – 50°F or 4°C – 10°C) and dark until spring arrives . You may need to re-pot tubers every few months if they start to outgrow their containers .

Benefits Of Overwintering Begonias In Pots

Overwintering begonias in pots has several advantages over other methods of overwintering . It’s easy , it’s cost effective , and it allows you to save your favorite varieties for another season! Plus , it’s also a great way to keep your plants healthy during those cold winter months when outdoor growing isn’t possible .

Preparing For Winter

Before you start preparing your begonias for winter , make sure you give them one final trimming in late summer or early fall so they don’t become overgrown before going dormant . Remove any dead or diseased foliage from your plants as well as any spent blooms that may still be present on your plants . This will help prevent disease from spreading throughout your plants while they’re dormant over winter . Also make sure there is adequate drainage at the bottom of each pot so water doesn’t become trapped and rot your tubers or roots during storage .

Tips For Care During Winter Months

If you’re keeping fibrous-rooted begonias indoors over winter , make sure they get plenty of light (at least 6 hours per day ), but avoid direct sunlight which can scorch their delicate leaves . Keep temperatures consistent between 55°F – 65°F (13°C – 18°C). Water when soil feels dry about an inch below the surface and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth periods (usually late winter/early spring). If keeping tuberous types dormant in containers over winter , check periodically for any signs of rot such as wilting leaves or soft tubers, then remove affected areas immediately if present . Also make sure containers remain damp but not soggy throughout storage period so tubers don’t dry out before spring arrives .

Troubleshooting Common Issues With Begonias In Winter

Common issues that arise when overwintering begonias include pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites which can attack both indoor and outdoor plants alike; root rot caused by too much water; yellowing leaves due to lack of nutrients; fungal diseases like powdery mildew; and insufficient lighting which can cause weak stems and slow growth rates among other problems . To prevent pests from attacking your plants, try applying an insecticidal soap solution around their base every few weeks throughout fall and early winter season; use organic fertilizers instead of chemical ones; rotate them around different parts of your home/garden; provide adequate drainage; use air circulation fans if available ; keep humidity levels low ; avoid overcrowding ; prune regularly ; water only when necessary ; remove any dead/diseased foliage immediately ; and keep an eye out for signs of fungal diseases like powdery mildew which thrive in humid conditions .

Conclusion

Yes, you can leave begonias in pots over winter! Fibrous types can be kept indoors as houseplants while tuberous varieties should be stored dormant in cool, dark locations until spring arrives again. Overwintering begonias is easy—it’s cost effective, saves favorite varieties each year, and helps keep them healthy during cold weather months when outdoor growing isn’t possible! With proper care throughout autumn into late winter/early spring—including trimming back dead/diseased foliage, providing adequate drainage, avoiding overcrowding/humidity levels too high/direct sunlight etc.—you’ll have beautiful blooms come summertime!

Additional Resources And Further Reading:

• National Gardening Association: “Overwintered Begonia Care” https://www.gardenersworldmagazineonline.com/how-to/plant-care/overwintered-begonia-care/
• The Spruce: “Begonia Plant Care Instructions” https://www.thespruce.com/care-for-begonia-plants-1402705
• BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine: “How To Grow Begonias” https://www.bbcgardenersworldmagazineonline.com/howto/plantguide_begonia_growingguide