Since it's too cold to order plants, I was thinking maybe I could occupy my time with a few seeds...are begonias one of those types ( like plumies and violets ) that don't grow true to the parent?
Thanks,
LeeAnne
Do begonia seeds develop true to the parents?
If it is a species begonia crossed with the same species (or itself) then it will generally be like the parent(s). If it is a species or hybrid crossed with another species or hybrid, then the results are unpredictable but this is where some of the most desireable begonias have come from. If you are ordering seed (tuberous or wax types) then generally what you order should turn out as advertised but it can be discouraging growing begonias from seed (seed viability from some of the seed houses are not great because the seed is not as fresh as it could be).
Thank you, can you recommend a good supplier?
LA
There aren't many suppliers for begonia seed. You can check with the ABS but you have to be a member to purchase any. Kartuz has some rex seed I think, Park's has tuberous and wax (they had rex at one time and I had pretty good luck with those), T&M has tuberous and wax but I had very poor germination with them (I think their seed must be old), and you could check eBay as well. The easiest think to do is buy plants you want and try to gather seed from them - it is fresh and you still have the mother plant.
Most suppliers in question are indeed the begonia societies all over the world.
So be it, i thought, and joined 3 of them (ABS, AABS, AFABEGO)
There is one commercion supplier I know: Mauro Peixoto http://mpeixoto.sites.uol.com.br/Seeds.html
- You have to order at least 6 packets of seed
- shipping worldwide
- accepts PayPal
- available species are listed on his website
Occasionally I get seeds from members of a german begonia forum, since there is no German begonia society.
I buy my seed from Stokes Seeds. I find them to have the best value. They sell annual (fibrous), hanging and tuberous upright. Antonelli's http://www.antonellibegonias.com/ also sells seeds. You should order now so you can sow within 3- 4 weeks.