Begonia, Insalata Di Caprese Bulbs

Tuberous begonias are shipped as tubers and should be planted immediately upon arrival. Do not be concerned if the tubers look dry and appear to be dead, they are just dormant and will spring to life once planted. If you are not able to plant the tubers upon arrival, store in a cool, dry, dark location for a day or two.

• Plant Begonia's when there is no more threat of frost and soil is 15°C (60°F).
• Pick a location with bright light, but not direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. They will grow in full to partial shade, but will not flower well in areas with deep shade and low light.
• If you are planting begonia tubers directly into the garden, choose a location with fertile soil with good drainage. Avoid water-logged areas as the tubers will rot.
• Prior to planting, soil can be amended with compost or well-rotted mature to improve fertility and drainage. Loosen the soil and dig a shallow hole. Tubers should be planted 2.5 cm (1”) below the soil surface. Place the tuber into the hole with the indented side (like a bowl) facing upward - this is where leaf sprouts will form. Set the tuber at a slight angle, so water doesn't settle in the bowl.
• Cover the tuber with 2.5 cm (1”) of soil and then water lightly to help settle it in place.
• Space additional tubers 20-30 cm (8-12") apart. Water your Begonia during active growth just enough to keep the soil damp but never soggy.
• Water needs: 2.5 cm (1") of water per week during growth. Generally, if the soil is moist 2.5 cm (1") deep, there is no need to water. More may be required if the weather is hot and you are experiencing drought-like conditions.

**Not ready to plant? If you are not able to plant the tuber(s) upon arrival, open the package and check if the peat moss, or other packing material is moist. If it is barely damp, or dry, add a little room temperature water and close the package and place in a cool (not freezing), dark location. If longer than a few days, remove the tuber(s) and plant in a container with moistened potting mix and place in a cool (not freezing), dark location. Storing the tubers for an extended period of time will reduce their viability.