Plant Begonia Tubers The Right Way Up

Don't be confused by begonia tubers when viewing for the first time. This typical tuber appears to be the wrong way up. The roots pictured are on top, along with the indentation of the old stem scar; however, the base of the tuber is smooth (you'll have to take my word for it), devoid of all roots.

PLANT THEM THE RIGHT WAY UP
The overall shape is saucer-like. Always plant them with the indentation on top and the rounded part beneath.

PURCHASE BUDDED TUBERS IF YOU CAN
Sometimes, buds will have developed around the old stem scar. These tubers should be purchased, since they will get away more quickly, with less risk of loss.

DIVIDING TUBERS DOESN'T REALLY WORK
Begonias are unusual in that they grow roots all over their surface. This is why they lose vigour when the tubers are cut in half since new roots do not form on the cut surfaces. I didn't report on it, but those I divided last year were not so good as normal, probably because they had been divided.