Propagate begonias from tubers

Steve and Val explain the best way to create more gorgeous tuberous begonias

- Steve and Val Bradley

THE two types of begonia are the fibrous-rooted, which tend to be the short-lived bedding varieties, and tuberous. Some fibrous types may actually go on to form a tuber if they live long enough. Botanically, this root structure is actually a corm and it is a means of food storage to help it survive through the winter, but it is generally referred to as a tuber.

Tuberous are best

Tuberous begonia species are typically the ones that produce fabulous displays as summer bedding or in a cool greenhouse, with flowers the size of a plate in some cases. You will often see these varieties and cultivars displayed in classes on the benches at both local and national flower shows, (see picture above), where they draw gasps of admiration from visitors.

Care and storage

If properly stored over winter in a dry, frost-free place, tuberous begonias can be brought back to life in spring and will grow happily for many years. If the plant is well cared for with regular water and food, the tuber will increase in size over time to support the plant as it, too, gets bigger and stronger.

Most of these plants are easy to propagate in a number of ways, according to your preference. You can take leaf petiole or softwood stem cuttings, or the tuber can be divided. Some can also be propagated from seed, but this is often costly and the seed itself is finer than dust, so it is not for the faint-hearted.