Growing Non-GMO Samba Pastel Mixture Begonia Bulbs

Choose a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5-7.0. Tubers should be planted after the last frost date, as begonias are highly sensitive to cold. They can also be planted indoors 8 weeks before the frost or kept indoors year-round. Sow the tubers 1-2 inches deep, with the hollow or concave side facing upwards. Space each tuber about 10-12 inches apart to allow room for growth and airflow, which helps prevent disease. Containers offer excellent drainage and the ability to move the plants to optimize sunlight or protect them from extreme weather.

Begonias thrive in partial shade or filtered sunlight. They prefer bright but indirect light, as full sun can scorch the foliage and blooms. Consistent moisture is essential, but overwatering must be avoided to prevent tuber rot. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, is critical for their success. Ensure the water reaches the roots but doesn’t leave the soil soggy. Companion plants like ferns, hostas, and impatiens make excellent choices, as they share similar light and soil preferences while enhancing the visual appeal of shaded garden beds.

Pinching is not required but can help them to produce more blooms and be bushier. Removing spent blooms (deadheading) encourages continued flowering and prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production. Additionally, removing any yellowing or damaged leaves helps maintain the plant's health and appearance. Fertilization should be done every 2-4 weeks using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.

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.

Samba Pastel Mixture Begonia Tubers in the Flower Garden

Samba Pastel Tuberous Begonias are highly valued in flower gardens for their breathtaking, rose-like blooms in soft pastel shades of pink, peach, yellow, and cream. These flowers bring a touch of elegance and color to shaded areas, where many other plants struggle to thrive. Their compact, mounding growth habit makes them perfect for borders, containers, or hanging baskets, creating striking visual interest in patios, walkways, or garden beds. They are particularly effective in mixed plantings, where their pastel tones harmonize beautifully with other shade-loving plants like ferns, hostas, and impatiens.

Samba Pastel Begonias serve as ornamental companions, providing beauty while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Though not edible, their lush, vibrant blooms can create a pleasing contrast to nearby vegetables or herbs, adding charm and variety to functional garden spaces. Their ability to brighten low-light areas makes them a versatile choice for gardeners looking to maximize the aesthetic appeal of their gardens.

Companion Planting With Samba Pastel Mixture Begonia Bulbs

Samba Pastel Mixture Begonias are excellent companion plants in gardens where shade or partial shade dominates, making them a natural choice for pairing with ferns, hostas, impatiens, or coleus. Their soft pastel blooms add vibrant color to otherwise subdued shaded areas, while their compact growth habit prevents overcrowding and competition with neighboring plants. In mixed borders or containers, these begonias provide a cohesive, polished look and fill in gaps between larger plants with their lush foliage and abundant flowers. While not entirely deer-proof, their slightly unpalatable foliage deters frequent grazing, helping to protect both the begonias and more vulnerable plants nearby.

About Samba Pastel Mixture Begonia Bulbs

The genus Begonia comprises over 1,800 species, making it one of the largest genera of flowering plants. These plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with a significant number originating from South America.

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!

Tuberous begonias are considered not safe for consumption by humans or pets. Ingestion can cause nausea and vomiting. The Samba Pastel Mixture Begonia, like many ornamental hybrids, is not intended for consumption.

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

Samba Pastel Mixture Begonia Bulbs Per Package:

• 4 Bulb Bag

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