Growing Hanging Planter Begonia's

For those who do not have the right climate to grow fussy fuchsias, begonias act as a plant double. The half-hardy Begonia boliviensis has the same tubular, pendulous flowers as fuchsias, but can handle the heat and humidity of southern summers. Other tuberous begonias that look great in hanging baskets include the Nonstop 'Mocca' series with fully double flowers that resemble roses.

  • Name: Begonia (Begonia )
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-10
  • Color Varieties: Yellow, red, pink, white, orange
  • Spread: 6 to 12 in.
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
  • Soil Needs: Rich, light, moist, well-drained

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When choosing begonias for hanging baskets, it's essential to select varieties that are known for their trailing growth habit, vibrant blooms, and suitability for container gardening. Begonias are perfect for hanging baskets because of their cascading nature and colorful flowers, which add beauty and interest to any space. Here are some of the best begonia varieties for hanging baskets:

  1. Begonia 'Nonstop' Series

The Nonstop Begonias are some of the most popular begonias for hanging baskets due to their continuous blooms, compact growth, and wide range of colors. These begonias are tuberous begonias that produce large, showy flowers in colors such as red, white, pink, orange, and yellow. They have a mounding and trailing growth habit, which makes them ideal for spilling over the edges of a hanging basket.

  • Why They're Great: Nonstop begonias bloom profusely throughout the growing season and are perfect for adding color to shaded areas. Their resistance to heat and ability to bloom continuously make them a favorite for gardeners.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Dragon Wing' Series

Dragon Wing Begonias are a fantastic option for hanging baskets. Known for their large, wing-shaped leaves and colorful flowers in shades of red and pink, these begonias are heat-tolerant and have a trailing growth habit. The combination of glossy foliage and vibrant blooms makes Dragon Wing begonias stand out in any garden.

  • Why They're Great: Dragon Wing begonias are resistant to both heat and humidity, making them perfect for summer baskets. Their trailing stems create a graceful, cascading effect, and they require minimal care.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Illumination' Series

The Illumination Begonias are another excellent choice for hanging baskets, with their large, semi-trailing plants that produce vibrant, eye-catching blooms in colors like red, pink, orange, and yellow. These begonias are known for their long-lasting, continuous blooms throughout the growing season.

  • Why They're Great: Illumination begonias provide a stunning floral display and are perfect for hanging baskets where continuous color is desired. Their trailing nature makes them ideal for containers and baskets.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Rieger' (Tuberous Begonias)

Rieger Begonias are a hybrid type of tuberous begonia that offers vibrant flowers in bright colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink. These begonias have a compact and trailing growth habit, which is perfect for hanging baskets. They also tolerate slightly cooler temperatures than some other begonias, making them suitable for early spring and late fall displays.

  • Why They're Great: Rieger begonias are great for their colorful blooms and ability to handle cooler temperatures. They offer a delicate, cascading look in hanging baskets.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Surefire' Series

Surefire Begonias are known for their compact growth and vibrant flowers. These begonias produce smaller blooms in red, orange, and white shades and are particularly popular for hanging baskets because of their prolific blooming and resistance to disease.

  • Why They're Great: Surefire begonias are compact yet produce an abundance of flowers all season long. They’re ideal for small to medium-sized hanging baskets and are low-maintenance.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade.
  1. Begonia 'Bossa Nova' Series

Bossa Nova Begonias are compact, trailing plants that produce vibrant, continuous blooms. This variety has a dense, mounding habit, which makes it a great choice for hanging baskets. The flowers come in shades of red, orange, and pink, creating a stunning visual display.

  • Why They're Great: Bossa Nova begonias are known for their hardiness and resistance to pests and diseases. They produce a profusion of colorful blooms that spill beautifully from hanging baskets.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Million Kisses' Series

Million Kisses Begonias are trailing varieties that produce an abundance of small flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and white. These begonias are known for their rapid growth and continuous blooms, making them perfect for filling up hanging baskets with vibrant color.

  • Why They're Great: Million Kisses begonias bloom abundantly and are ideal for gardeners who want a quick-growing, colorful display. Their trailing habit and abundant flowers make them a great choice for hanging baskets.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade.
  1. Begonia 'Viking' Series

The Viking Begonias are a popular choice for hanging baskets due to their trailing growth habit and vibrant flowers. These begonias come in a range of colors, including red, pink, and orange, and have strong, durable flowers that bloom profusely throughout the growing season.

  • Why They're Great: Viking begonias are easy to care for, bloom abundantly, and have a dense growth habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets. Their colorful blooms add a pop of color to your garden.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Trailing White'

Trailing White Begonias offer a soft, cascading effect with their white flowers and glossy green leaves. These begonias are perfect for more understated hanging basket displays, providing elegance with their delicate flowers.

  • Why They're Great: Trailing White begonias are perfect for creating an elegant, simple display in hanging baskets. Their cascading nature and soft blooms make them great for more refined garden settings.
  • Light Needs: Partial shade to full shade.
  1. Begonia 'Maculata' (Spotted Begonias)

The Maculata Begonias, also known as spotted begonias, are grown more for their foliage than for their flowers. They have dramatic, silvery spots on their dark green leaves, which create a unique, eye-catching effect in hanging baskets. While the flowers are smaller and less prominent, the foliage alone makes them a beautiful choice.

  • Why They're Great: Maculata begonias provide a striking visual contrast with their dramatic foliage. These begonias are great for those who want to add a bit of texture and uniqueness to their hanging baskets.
  • Light Needs: Indirect light or partial shade.

Conclusion

Begonias are a fantastic choice for hanging baskets, thanks to their beautiful, trailing growth and vibrant flowers. Whether you're looking for bold colors or a more understated display, varieties like Nonstop Begonias, Dragon Wing Begonias, and Rieger Begonias are perfect for creating stunning hanging basket arrangements. Make sure to select a variety that suits your growing conditions, whether you're working with full shade or partial sunlight, and provide the right care to enjoy their blooming beauty all season long.

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