Growing Non-GMO Fimbriata Mixture Begonia Tubers

When planting Fimbriata Mixture Begonia tubers, select a location with partial to full shade and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Tubers should be planted concave-side up, about 1 inch deep in the soil. If you're working in a cooler region (below USDA Zone 8), starting tubers indoors about 8 weeks before the last expected frost is recommended. This provides a head start for blooms later in the season. For direct sowing outdoors, wait until the soil temperature is consistently above 60 F, as begonias are sensitive to cold. Space the tubers 10-12 inches apart to allow for airflow and avoid overcrowding, which helps prevent disease. Begonias can also be planted and grown entirely indoors as houseplants.

Once planted, Fimbriata Begonias require consistent moisture, but avoid waterlogging, as overly wet soil can cause the tubers to rot. Water deeply and allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilization is essential for these heavy feeders—apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10) every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Maintenance includes removing spent blooms (deadheading) to encourage continuous flowering and prevent energy wastage on seed production. When they reach 4-6 inches tall, pinching back the tips of young plants can help promote a bushier growth habit, especially in the early stages. It might feel counterproductive at first, but it will result in more blooms later on. Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Overwintering begonia tubers varies based on your USDA hardiness zone. In Zones 8-10, where winters are mild, tubers can remain in the ground year-round with minimal care—cut back dying foliage, apply mulch for insulation, and avoid overwatering during dormancy. In colder Zones 3-7, where frost and freezing temperatures are common, tubers must be lifted after the first frost. Let the soil dry slightly and then loosen the soil around the tuber to carefully remove them. After digging them up, cure them in a warm, dry location, clean off excess soil, and store them in a cool, dark place (40-50 F) packed in dry peat moss or vermiculite. Regularly check stored tubers for rot or mold.

Fimbriata Mixture Begonia Bulbs in the Flower Garden

Fimbriata Mixture Begonia tubers are prized for their vibrant, double-flowered blooms with strikingly edged petals in contrasting colors. These begonias thrive in shaded environments, making them an invaluable addition to gardens where sunlight is limited. Their lush, green foliage provides a beautiful backdrop to the large, carnation-like flowers, which are stunning in beds, borders, and container gardens. They bring continuous color from mid-summer to frost, enhancing the garden's appeal during the growing season.

These begonias are equally stunning in hanging baskets, where their flowers can be appreciated up close or as focal points in shaded garden corners. Their compact, bushy growth habit makes them ideal for edging pathways or filling gaps in the garden design, and their ability to thrive in pots means they can be moved to create dynamic arrangements in patios or balconies.

Fimbriata Mixture Begonia Bulbs in the Landscape

These begonias are great candidates for companion planting with shade-loving plants like impatiens or hostas, which can complement their vibrant blooms while maintaining similar light and soil needs. If planting in containers, ensure they have adequate drainage and consider mixing begonias with cascading plants like fuchsia, alyssum or lobelia for visual interest. Since tuberous begonias are fairly deer-resistant, they are perfect for shaded gardens frequented by deer. Thanks to the tubers, even if the deer eat the leaves and flowers, they are likely to return before too long.

About Fimbriata Mixture Begonia Tuber Bulbs

British botanist Richard Pearce introduced several species of begonias from the Andes Mountains of South America to Europe in the mid-19th century. Over time, horticulturists in Europe and North America crossbred these species to produce hybrids with larger flowers, diverse colors, and unique patterns, including the distinctive picotee edging.

Tuberous begonias are typically considered deer-resistant. However, keep in mind that deer will eat pretty much any plant if they get hungry enough. “Deer-resistant” typically means that deer will favor other plants over begonias and are much less likely to eat them. The same goes for rabbits!

While this variety is not intended for consumption, certain begonia species have been used in culinary applications in various cultures. For instance, in Indonesia, begonias were utilized to make sauces for fish dishes, and in China, the flowers were added to salads. Do not consume without extensive knowledge, as certain parts of the plant can be toxic if ingested, particularly to pets and humans, causing symptoms like vomiting and irritation.

Begonias are great for those wanting indoor flowers without heavy fragrance. While there are fragrant varieties available, these hybrid tuberous types are not fragrant at all.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"Begonias always remind me of my mother. She loved to propagate them and had dozens of them by the time I left the house. She would always give them away as gifts to friends or acquaintances needing a pick-me-up."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Fimbriata Mixture Begonia Bulbs Per Package:

• 4 Bulb Bag

Non-GMO Fimbriata Mixture Begonia Bulbs are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.