Flower Garden · Seed to Bloom
How to grow begonia
Grow begonias from exceptionally fine seed for months of flowers, dramatic foliage, and polished containers in sun-filtered garden spaces.
Flower profile
Choose flowers, foliage, or both.
Seed-grown begonias range from nonstop flowering landscape plants to dramatic foliage selections. Their dustlike seed and slow early growth reward a warm, carefully managed indoor start.
begonia at a glance
From dustlike seed to a full summer plant
Planting
Start warm, bright, and uncovered.
Begonia seedlings are minute. Stable warmth, humidity, and light matter more than deep feeding during the earliest stage.
Level and moisten the mix
Use fine sterile seed-starting mix, water it first, then place seed on the surface without covering.
Hold moisture gently
Cover the tray with a clear dome and provide 70–75°F warmth plus bright light; vent once seedlings emerge.
Pot on in stages
Transplant small clumps or individual seedlings after true leaves form, then harden gradually before outdoor planting.
Ongoing care
Keep plants healthy and flowers productive
Use filtered sun
Morning sun or bright shade protects foliage from harsh afternoon scorch.
Water at the root
Keep soil evenly moist but never saturated; containers must drain freely.
Feed lightly
Apply a dilute balanced fertilizer after plants are established and actively growing.
Protect from chill
Move containers indoors or discard plants before freezing weather.
Season checkpoints
Follow the plant’s visible progress.
Fine seedlings emerge
True leaves expand
Plants fill small pots
Flowers or foliage mature
Garden and container display
Grow begonias for continuous living color.
Begonias are usually enjoyed on the plant rather than harvested. Remove damaged leaves and spent flower clusters, and turn containers regularly for even growth.
- Pinch only if the variety benefits.
- Remove soft or damaged growth cleanly.
- Bring prized plants inside before frost.
Urban Farmer selections
Choose flowers or statement foliage
Flowering · bronze foliageViking XL Red on ChocolateLarge red blooms over dark chocolate leaves for bold containers and beds.Checking availability…Shop Viking XL Red on Chocolate →
Foliage · silver greenGryphonDeeply cut silver-green leaves for shaded containers and indoor display.Checking availability…Shop Gryphon →
Questions flower gardeners ask
Begonia growing FAQ
When should begonia seed be started?
Start indoors about 12–16 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.
Should begonia seed be covered?
No. Press the fine seed onto the moist surface because light supports germination.
What temperature helps germination?
A steady 70–75°F is a useful target for most seed-grown begonias.
Why are the seedlings so small?
Begonia seed is dustlike and produces minute seedlings that develop slowly at first.
When can seedlings be transplanted?
Move them carefully after true leaves form and plants are large enough to handle.
Can begonias grow in full sun?
Many prefer morning sun or bright filtered light; intense afternoon sun can scorch foliage.
How wet should the soil stay?
Keep it evenly moist, never waterlogged, and always use containers with drainage.
Do begonias need fertilizer?
Feed lightly after active growth begins; strong fertilizer can damage young roots.
Are begonias frost tolerant?
No. They are tender and must be protected from frost.
Can plants be overwintered?
Yes, prized plants can be brought into bright indoor conditions before cold weather.
Ready to plant?