How to prepare begonia for winter storage?

As the weather turns cold, begonia growers start to think about how to store begonia bulbs through the winter. This phase is crucial in plant care and needs careful attention. Storing the bulbs properly helps the plant survive the winter and stay healthy for the next planting season. Let’s go through the steps to do this.

Step 1: Prepare for winter When autumn arrives and days get shorter with cooler temperatures, slow down watering gradually. This helps the begonia go into dormancy. Once the first frost hits, dig up the tubers. Remove any remaining stems and leaves, clean off all soil, and let the tubers dry out for a few days. It’s important that the tubers are completely dry before storage. If they are too moist, mold and rot can develop.

Step 2: Choose a storage spot Find a dark place with a steady temperature between 10-15 degrees Celsius and moderate humidity. A cellar or basement is ideal. If these aren’t available, an insulated balcony or storage room can work. The key point is to keep the tubers from freezing.

Step 3: Storage options There are two main ways to store begonias over winter: dry storage or leaving them in pots.

Dry storage involves placing the tubers in wooden boxes or containers. Sprinkle them with sand, peat, or sawdust. This method helps keep the right moisture levels and prevents the tubers from drying out.

You can also keep the begonia in its pot. If you choose this method, leave the plant in a cool place where temperatures stay above freezing. Stop watering until spring.

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