Tuberous Begonia Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

The tuberous begonia (Begonia tuberhybrida) is a popular flowering plant known for its vibrant colors and lush foliage. Growing these plants from seeds can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to witness the entire lifecycle of these beautiful flowers. In this article, we will guide you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating tuberous begonia plant seeds.

Storing Tuberous Begonia Seeds

Before we dive into the process of sowing and germinating tuberous begonia seeds, it’s important to know how to properly store them. Here are some guidelines to ensure the longevity and viability of your seeds:

1. Harvesting: Tuberous begonia plants produce seed pods after flowering. Allow the pods to fully mature on the plant before harvesting. The pods turn brown and become slightly dry when ready for harvesting.

2. Drying: Once harvested, open the seed pods and remove the small, black seeds. Spread them out on a clean paper towel or plate and allow them to air dry for about a week in a cool, dry place. Make sure they are completely dry before storing.

3. Storage Container: Choose an airtight container such as a glass jar or a sealed plastic bag to store your seeds. Make sure it is clean and dry before use.

4. Labeling: It’s crucial to label your storage container with the name of the plant and the date of collection. This will help you keep track of your seeds and ensure you use them within their viability period.

5. Temperature and Humidity: Store your tuberous begonia seeds in a cool, dark place with low humidity. A refrigerator or a cool basement is ideal for long-term storage.

By following these steps, you can store tuberous begonia seeds for up to two years while maintaining their viability.

Sowing Tuberous Begonia Seeds

Now that you have properly stored your tuberous begonia seeds, it’s time to sow them and start the germination process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Seed Tray or Pots: Choose a seed tray or small pots with good drainage holes. Fill them with a well-draining potting mix, preferably one that is specifically formulated for starting seeds.

2. Sowing Depth: Tuberous begonia seeds are small, so only cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil. It’s important not to bury the seeds too deep as they require light for germination.

3. Moisture: After sowing the seeds, gently water the soil to ensure it’s moist but not waterlogged. You can use a spray bottle to mist the soil if necessary.

4. Covering: To maintain humidity and moisture levels, cover the seed tray or pots with a clear plastic dome or plastic wrap. This creates a mini greenhouse effect and helps speed up germination.

5. Location and Temperature: Place the covered seed tray or pots in a warm area with indirect sunlight. The ideal temperature for tuberous begonia seed germination is around 70-75°F (21-24°C).

6. Germination Time: Tuberous begonia seeds typically take around 1-2 weeks to germinate. During this time, make sure to keep the soil consistently moist but not overly wet.

Germination and Care

Once your tuberous begonia seeds have germinated, it’s important to provide them with proper care to ensure healthy growth. Here are some tips:

1. Lighting: Once the seedlings emerge, remove the plastic cover and place them in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the delicate leaves.

2. Watering: Water the seedlings when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater as tuberous begonias are susceptible to root rot. It’s better to underwater than to overwater.

3. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure to keep the tubers slightly above the soil surface.

4. Fertilization: Once the seedlings have established themselves, you can start feeding them with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

5. Temperature and Humidity: Tuberous begonias thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). They prefer high humidity levels, so consider using a humidifier or placing them on a tray filled with pebbles and water to increase moisture around the plants.

With proper care and attention, your tuberous begonia seedlings will grow into beautiful flowering plants that will add color and charm to your garden or indoor space.

In conclusion, growing tuberous begonias from seeds can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully store, sow, and germinate tuberous begonia seeds, ultimately leading to the growth of stunning plants that will brighten up any space. Happy gardening!