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Begonia Tubers South Africa: How to Plant Tuberous Begonias for Shade & Pots

Looking for reliable colour in shady spaces? Begonia tubers (Begonia × tuberhybrida) deliver big, velvety blooms on compact plants—perfect for containers, hanging baskets, window boxes and dappled-shade beds. With the right start, they flower from summer into early autumn, even where sun-loving annuals struggle.

Why choose tuberous begonias?

Thrive in bright shade or morning sun

Huge, double flowers in red, orange, yellow, pink and white

Ideal for small spaces, patios and balconies

Long flowering season with minimal fuss

When to plant in South Africa

Start tubers in late winter to early spring (August–September) and plant out after the last frost. In frost-free areas you can plant directly outdoors once nights are mild.

How to plant begonia tubers (step-by-step)

Pre-sprout indoors (recommended):
Place tubers concave (hollow) side up in a shallow tray of moist, free-draining mix. Keep just barely covered.

Light & temperature:
Bright, indirect light at 18–22 °C promotes sturdy shoots.

Potting on / planting out:
When shoots are 2–3 cm, transplant into pots or beds. Plant 2.5–5 cm deep, spacing 20–30 cm.

Watering:
Keep evenly moist—never waterlogged. Water the soil, not the foliage.

Feeding:
Use a balanced feed every 2–3 weeks, then switch to a potassium-rich fertiliser to boost flowering.

Maintenance:
Deadhead spent blooms and protect from harsh afternoon sun and strong, dry winds.

Growing in pots & hanging baskets

Use a rich, free-draining potting mix with added compost or fine bark.

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid saucers holding water.

For baskets, choose cascading/pendula types; for pots, pick large-flowered doubles or Nonstop series.

Common problems & quick fixes

Yellowing/rot: Too much water or poor drainage—repot into a lighter mix and reduce watering.

Leggy growth, few flowers: Increase light (morning sun/bright shade) and feed with a bloom booster.

Leaf spots/mildew: Improve air flow; water at the base and remove affected leaves.

Overwintering

Before frost, lift tubers, dry them in a cool, airy place, brush off soil and store in paper or dry peat at 5–10 °C. Replant the following spring for another season of colour.

Ready to plant?

Explore our curated Begonia tubers—quality-checked for strong sprouting and shipped in season across South Africa for the best results.