Hi begonia experts--
I have seed for this I would like to start, but this will be the first begonia species from seed I have tried. I'm thinking this one might do well here:
http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/76354/
but I notice many of the Plantfile pictures are coming out of California/Australia. Does this have a dry summer dormancy period? I'm experienced at bulbs from seeds but not begonias. I was hoping this would make a nice patio plant and have a longer bloom period than other bulbs.
I did read this from one of the varieties:
http://www.begoniabonfire.com/en/facts/
The way I read it its dormant in winter from this article. I'm assuming the seeds need light to germinate since they are so tiny. Any idea of normal/general germination times? Time from seed to bloom?
Thanks in advance!
Debbie
=)
Begonia boliviensis
Debbie, Most likely it won't like the excessive heat there in Houston. Doesn't mean you shouldn't try anyway. Start them soon, it's getting kinda late for starting tuberous from seed. They prefer to grow while the temps are moderate.
I'm not an expert just my humble opinion. I don't know the time frames but could
take a couple of weeks or more to germinate
Jackie
Thanks Jackie--maybe I can keep it in complete shade July-Sept with good air ciculation around it and then out for the winter. Shade is very underated in Texas! I know some mountainous things from Guatemala and Mexico do OK thru the summer if kept in complete shade and then grow really well Oct-mid May. I'll get right on sowing it then. Thanks for your help with this species!
debbie
=)
Debbie, We wish you success with this one. The shade and good air
circulation are good ideas. Save 1/2 of your seed and you can always
try again later. Watch for any signs in late fall of it going downhill,
indicating it wants to go dormant for the winter.
Does it need to stay bone dry in winter or just normal dry? I know that sounds strange but most bulb growers will know what I mean. =)
Deb, Just take your cue from the way it looks by late fall. If it's growing good and looks good, then continue to water but not as often. If all the growth dies down,
I would store it dry. If you top it off with even a little water, it might rot.
Wish someone would chime in here and let us in on the secret.. LOL
Does it need to stay at constant warm temps to germinate? Or can I stick the seeded pots outside where it ranges from 50-75F these days?
Probably no one fool enough to attempt it from seeds but me.
Its probably in every California nursery all ready to take home and love--lol
=)
I don't think they would germinate at 50, better at 65-80 range. I wouldn't use
heavy soil but opt instead for the seed starting mix.
Yes, I am using seed starting mix--I'll leave them inside on a windowsill until mid-March.
=)