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

Tuberous begonias are beautiful flowering plants that are popular among gardeners for their vibrant blooms and lush foliage. While many gardeners prefer to propagate tuberous begonias through tubers, growing them from seeds can be a rewarding experience. In this guide, we will explore the process of storing, sowing, and germinating tuberous begonia seeds.

Storing Tuberous Begonia Seeds

Before we delve into the process of sowing and germinating tuberous begonia seeds, it is essential to understand how to store them properly. Storing the seeds correctly ensures their freshness and viability for future planting seasons. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Harvesting: Begin by allowing the seed pods on your tuberous begonias to mature fully. The seed pods will turn brown or black when they are ready for harvesting.

2. Seed Extraction: Once the seed pods have dried up, carefully remove them from the plant. Gently crush the seed pods using your fingers or a mortar and pestle to release the tiny seeds.

3. Cleaning: To separate the seeds from any remaining debris or chaff, place them in a fine-mesh sieve or strainer. Rinse the seeds under cool running water to remove any remaining impurities.

4. Drying: Spread the cleaned seeds on a paper towel or a mesh drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Allow the seeds to dry completely for about two weeks. Make sure they are kept away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

5. Storage Containers: Once dry, transfer the seeds into airtight containers such as small glass jars or resealable plastic bags. Label each container with the variety and date of harvest for easy reference.

6. Storage Conditions: To maintain seed viability, store the containers in a cool, dark, and dry location such as a refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing tuberous begonia seeds is around 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 10 degrees Celsius).

By following these steps, you can ensure that your tuberous begonia seeds remain viable for several years.

Sowing Tuberous Begonia Seeds

Now that you have successfully stored your tuberous begonia seeds, it’s time to sow them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sowing tuberous begonia seeds:

1. Timing: Tuberous begonia seeds are usually sown indoors in late winter or early spring, around 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date in your region. This gives the plants enough time to develop before transplanting them outside.

2. Seed Starting Mix: Fill small seed trays or pots with a well-draining seed starting mix. You can also create your own mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

3. Sowing Depth: Tuberous begonia seeds are tiny and should be sown on the surface of the soil mix. Lightly press them into the soil, ensuring they are in good contact with the medium.

4. Moisture: After sowing the seeds, mist the soil surface with water using a spray bottle. Be careful not to overwater as excess moisture can lead to fungal diseases.

5. Covering: Tuberous begonia seeds require darkness for germination. Cover the seed trays or pots with a clear plastic dome or place them inside a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect.

6. Germination Conditions: Tuberous begonia seeds require consistent warmth and humidity for germination. Place the seed trays or pots in a warm location, such as on top of a seedling heat mat or near a radiator. Aim for a temperature range of 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius).

7. Germination Period: Tuberous begonia seeds typically take around two to four weeks to germinate. During this time, monitor the moisture levels and ensure that the soil remains slightly damp but not waterlogged.

Germinating Tuberous Begonia Seeds

Once the tuberous begonia seeds have germinated, it’s crucial to provide them with the right care to ensure healthy growth. Here are some tips for germinating tuberous begonia seeds:

1. Light Requirements: As soon as the seedlings emerge, remove the plastic cover or bag to allow air circulation. Place the trays or pots in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight as it may scorch the delicate seedlings.

2. Watering: Water the seedlings gently from the bottom by placing the trays or pots in a shallow tray filled with water. Allow the soil to soak up the moisture for about 15 minutes, then remove them from the tray and let any excess water drain away.

3. Fertilization: Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, start fertilizing them with a diluted liquid fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or similar. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution and application rates.

4. Transplanting: When the seedlings have grown into sturdy plants with multiple sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers. Handle the seedlings carefully by their leaves or use a transplanting tool to avoid damaging the delicate stems.

5. Outdoor Planting: After the last frost date has passed and all chances of frost have diminished, you can transplant your tuberous begonia seedlings into your garden beds or containers outdoors. Choose a location with partial shade and well-draining soil.

By following these steps, you can successfully germinate tuberous begonia seeds and enjoy the beauty of these stunning flowers in your garden.

In conclusion, growing tuberous begonias from seeds can be a gratifying experience for any gardener. By properly storing, sowing, and germinating the seeds, you can enjoy the vibrant blooms and lush foliage of these beautiful plants. So why not give it a try and add some tuberous begonias to your garden this year?