Can You Save Begonias Over the Winter?

Begonia tubers can be replanted each spring.

It's hard to say goodbye to the tuberous begonia's delicate blooms once summer fades. The good news is that you can store these tubers over winter and enjoy another breathtaking floral display next year.

Time Frame

It's time to overwinter tuberous begonias when their foliage is injured by the first fall frost, according to the Purdue University Cooperative Extension.

Lifting From the Garden

Carefully dig up and lift out begonia tubers, leaving the ball of roots, including some soil, intact. With a sharp knife or pruning shears, remove any foliage left on the plant.

Curing

Place the tubers in a dry, cool area and allow them to cure for two to three weeks. Then remove remaining roots and soil and cut out any rotted spots on the tuber.

Storage Preparation

Prepare begonia tubers for winter storage by dusting them with a powdered garden fungicide. Place tubers in a paper sack, sprinkle in garden fungicide according to package directions, close the bag and shake well to coat tubers, recommends the Purdue University Cooperative Extension.

Storage

Submerge tubers in dry peat moss or sawdust in a paper bag and store at 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The University of Vermont Extension warns against getting the tubers wet during this time. Remove tubers from storage in early spring and replant.

References

• Purdue University Cooperative Extension: Winter Storage of Geranium, Cana, Gladiolus, Caladium, and Begonia
• University of Vermont Extension: Tuberous Begonias for Every Garden

Resources

• Clemson University Cooperative Extension: Growing Begonias Indoors