Learning how to water plants to increase growth in pots, container or garden - especially how to water roots and tubers. Specialities: root growth or tuber growth of lawns, fuchsias, geraniums, dahlias and begonias.

20 January 2011

Begonias and Busy Lizzies Ideal For Beginners

Those who would like to try their hand at growing flowering plants but are devoid of not just a garden but even a sunny window sill, should consider begonias and busy lizzies grown in pots. Each will grow and flower all summer long in low-light conditions at room temperatures, and each is tolerant of over-watering. I shall be showing you how to grow them from tubers over the next few weeks - starting next week. It is still a little bit early, so don't be in too much of a rush.

As you have probably gathered, my particular favourite would be a begonia, preferably one grown from a tuber. I have found these plants, grown in either pots or containers (if you're really ambitious, ask about basket trailing begonias), to be extremely rewarding. And if properly cared for, can produce wonderful blooms and/or foliage.

If this idea appeals to you, then get down to the garden centre and choose something to your taste. Although there are various types, you will see details on the boxes indicating the most appropriate one(s) for you. Get a 5 inch (127mm) pot and some multi-purpose compost as well.

P.S. I am still using last year's compost. I always do. And I don't think it has ever caused problems. Of course, there is no guarantee. But buying the stuff in bigger bags makes it much cheaper. If you have some compost left over from last year, you could try it out. After all, it can only fail, in which case you would still have time to transfer the tuber to fresh compost. It's upto you.

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