Nonstop begonias are a type of tuberous begonia (Begonia x tuberhybrida), sturdy bloomers that add a bright spark, even in partial shade or low levels of sunlight.The plant comes in a range of colors, including various shades of red, orange, pink, yellow, apricot, salmon and white. Although Nonstop begonia is usually grown as an annual, it is perennial in the temperate climate of U.S. Department of Agriculture growing zone 10 and above. Plant Nonstop begonias in a flower bed, hanging basket or patio container.
Plant Nonstop begonias in well-drained soil and partial sunlight. Avoid direct afternoon sunlight, which may scorch the plant. In a container, plant the begonia in a lightweight commercial potting mixture.
Water Nonstop begonias as needed to keep the soil slightly moist. Never overwater, as muddy soil and humid conditions may result in diseases such as mildew or stem rot.
Feed the plants every other week, using a general-purpose liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Alternatively, feed the begonias once every month, using liquid fertilizer at full strength. Apply the fertilizer to moist soil, and then water deeply following the application. Keep the fertilizer away from the foliage.
Dig the begonia tubers after the first hard frost and store them for the winter if you live in hardiness zone 9 or below. Dig the tubers, and then cut the stems, leaving only about 1 inch of stem attached to each tuber. Spread the tubers to cure in a cool, dry room for two to three weeks, and then store between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit in a box filled with dry vermiculite or perlite.
Things You Will Need
- General purpose liquid fertilizer
- Garden pruners
- Cardboard box
- Vermiculite or perlite
- Nonstop: Care Tips
- The New Sunset Western Garden Book; Kathleen Norris Brenzel
- Nonstop: Blaze of Colors
- North Carolina State University Extension: Scientific Name, Begonia
- Clemson Cooperative Extension: Summer- and Fall-Flowering Bulbs
- Iowa State University Extension: Growing Tuberous Begonias in the Home Garden