Tuberous begonias are beautiful flowering plants that are popular for their vibrant colors and long blooming period. They grow from underground tubers, which sprout into lush foliage and gorgeous flowers during the growing season. If you are planning to grow tuberous begonias, you might be wondering how quickly they will grow. In this article, we will discuss the growth rate of tuberous begonias and what factors affect their growth.
The growth rate of tuberous begonias can vary depending on several factors. Some of the factors that affect their growth rate are:
Tuberous begonias prefer moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). If the temperature is too low or too high, it can slow down their growth rate.
Tuberous begonias require bright, indirect light to grow properly. Insufficient light can slow down their growth rate and affect the quality of their blooms.
Tuberous begonias prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Poor soil quality can slow down their growth rate and affect their overall health.
Tuberous begonias require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering or underwatering can affect their growth rate.
Tuberous begonias require regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooming. Insufficient or excessive fertilizer can affect their growth rate and bloom quality.
Tuberous begonias go through several growth stages before they bloom. Here are the different stages of their growth:
After planting the tubers in well-draining soil, they will start sprouting within a few weeks. Initially, only the foliage will grow, and it will take a few weeks for the stem to emerge.
Once the stems have emerged, the plant will enter its vegetative growth phase. During this stage, the foliage will grow rapidly, and the plant will establish its root system.
After a few weeks of vegetative growth, the plant will start forming buds. The buds will continue to grow until they reach their full size.
Finally, the buds will open up into beautiful flowers, which can last for several weeks or even months. Tuberous begonias are known for their long blooming period, which makes them a popular choice among gardeners.
Tuberous begonias can take anywhere from 8-12 weeks to sprout, depending on the temperature and growing conditions. Once they have sprouted, they can grow rapidly during their vegetative growth phase, and it can take another 4-6 weeks for them to start forming buds. The blooming period can last for several weeks or even months, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
A: Tuberous begonias require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water them once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your area.
A: Fertilize your tuberous begonias once a month with a balanced fertilizer during their growing season (spring and summer). Use a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote blooming.
A: Tuberous begonias can be grown indoors, but they require bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures. Make sure to place them near a south-facing window or under a grow light.
A: After the blooming period is over, allow the foliage to die back naturally. Then, dig up the tubers and store them in a cool, dry place (such as a basement or garage) for the winter. Make sure to label them so you know which variety they are.
A: Tuberous begonias can be propagated from stem cuttings, but it can be difficult. It’s best to propagate them from their tubers by dividing them in the spring before planting.