How to grow Tuberous Begonia in the UK
Begonia x tuberhybrida
Tuberous Begonia (Begonia x tuberhybrida) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Start indoors in March, hollow-side up. Lift before frost. Keeps for 10+ years if stored well. This guide covers when and how to sow Tuberous Begonia, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Tuberous Begonia
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun Plant | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich, free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun and shelter
- Sowing depth
- 10–15 cm deep (varies by type)
- Spacing
- 10–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant in spring after frost; lift tender types (dahlia, gladioli) before winter in cold areas
- Growing
- Water and feed in growth; stake tall types
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead; lift and store tender bulbs/tubers over winter where frosts are hard
- Watch for
- Slugs, earwigs and aphids on soft growth
Companion planting for Tuberous Begonia
No specific companion notes for this plant.
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Tuberous Begonia FAQs
How much sun does Tuberous Begonia need?
Tuberous Begonia prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When should I plant Tuberous Begonia in the UK?
In the UK, plant Tuberous Begonia in June. Planting in this window gives the roots time to establish before the plant is asked to grow away.
Is Tuberous Begonia easy to grow?
Moderate. Start indoors in March, hollow-side up. Lift before frost. Keeps for 10+ years if stored well.