How to Overwinter Begonias

Begonias add both color and artistry to any houseplant collection with their stunning foliage and beautiful blooms, but when winter comes each variety has different needs. Here’s a look at how to care for them over the winter months.

Rex Begonias

This group is prized for their glorious foliage which comes in a rainbow of colors and patterns. Unlike other varieties they don’t go dormant but do need a little help in the winter to stay lush and healthy. Since the winter months usually mean heated homes and dry air, it’s important to give Rexs extra humidity, either by grouping them together, using humidity trays, or misting regularly. Keep the soil moist at all times-if they are allowed to dry out they will quickly wilt and eventually collapse. Unlike other plants such as Fittonia, immediate watering may not bring about a full recovery. Keep them in an area that gets bright but indirect light.

Rhizomatous Begonias

This group is among the easiest to care for of all the begonias, and as an added bonus they will flower all winter. Because they continue to grow and bloom all winter, fertilize them regularly and keep the soil moist. They are happiest in bright, indirect light.

Cane and Fibrous Begonias

This group is used as a popular bedding plant and includes both Angel Wing and Wax begonias. They need bright light to really flourish and shine. They don’t go dormant so keep well watered and fertilized all winter long. Like Rhizomatous Begonias, Wax Begonias will bloom all winter, adding a splash of color to the indoor landscape.

Tuberous Begonias

These beauties are prized for their blooms, which often look like lush miniature roses. However unlike most other types of begonias, the tuberous ones go completely dormant over the winter. Once the days begin to shorten and temps drop, the foliage will slowly begin to die back and fall off. This gives the impression that something is wrong with the plant, but it’s all perfectly normal. When this begins to occur start cutting back on water until all the leaves are gone and the soil is dried out. Once this happens remove the tubers from the soil and clean off any roots or soil residue and the remaining stem. The tubers can then be stored in a cool, dry place for the winter in clean paper bags. It’s extremely important that the tubers be completely dry before storing and kept free of moisture or they will rot. When spring comes, as long as they show no signs of rot, damage, or disease, they can be replanted to enjoy for another season.

With a little care and patience begonias will add their color and whimsy to any houseplant collection in most cases year round!