Begonia Seeds – Begonia spp.
Begonia spp. • Begoniaceae • Native to Tropics/Subtropics worldwide
Begonia Seeds grow into attractive ornamental plants known for colorful blooms, decorative foliage, and compact garden form. Ideal for shaded borders, patio containers, hanging baskets, and bright indoor or outdoor displays.
Plant Name: Wax Begonia Seeds
Quantity: 100 Seeds
Selected: Wax Begonia Seeds / 100 Seeds
Germination depends on soil, temperature, moisture, and care. See our return policy for details.
At a glance
Begonia plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, with the underground tubers containing the highest concentration of irritants, so site them thoughtfully if pets have access to your garden.
Botanical profile
Meet the Begonia – Begonia
Step-by-step planting
Growing begonias from seed rewards patience and attention to detail, because these tiny seeds have specific needs at each stage that, when met, produce strong transplants ready to shine all season.
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1
Start Seeds Early Indoors
Sow begonia seeds indoors 12 to 16 weeks before your last expected frost date, which for most gardeners in USDA zones 3 through 9 means January or February.
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2
Use a Fine Seed-Starting Mix
Fill shallow trays with a fine-textured, well-draining seed-starting mix that meets begonia soil requirements for good aeration, and avoid heavy potting soils that compact and hold too much moisture around fragile seedlings.
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3
Surface Sow Without Covering
Scatter seeds, including pelleted begonia seeds if that is what you have, on the surface of moistened mix and press them gently into contact with the soil without covering them, since begonia germination depends on exposure to light.
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4
Provide Consistent Warmth
Maintain a soil temperature of 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit using a seedling heat mat, because cool or fluctuating temperatures are one of the most common reasons begonia germination stalls or fails entirely.
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5
Keep Moisture Steady but Gentle
Mist the surface lightly with a spray bottle to maintain even moisture without displacing the tiny seeds, and cover the tray with a clear dome or plastic wrap to hold humidity until sprouts appear.
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6
Transplant with Care
Once seedlings have two to three true leaves, transplant them into individual cells or small pots using a well-draining mix, handling by the leaves rather than the fragile stems to avoid damage.
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7
Harden Off Before Outdoor Planting
Set transplants outdoors in a sheltered, shaded spot for one to two weeks before their final planting location, gradually increasing exposure so they adjust to outdoor air movement and light without wilting.
Year-round care
Spring
- Sow after last frost
- prepare soil with compost
Summer
- Water regularly
- feed monthly
Fall
- Harvest before frost
- store well
Winter
- Rest
- store seeds cool and dry
Full specifications
Shipping
- Orders are delivered within 8 to 16 business days.
- All orders include tracking.
- Free shipping on all orders.
- Seeds are packed in moisture-resistant, resealable foil packets.
Germination
Germination rates vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and care. Seeds perform best when planted in the right season at the correct temperature, with consistent moisture and adequate light. We take quality seriously and each batch is tested before packaging. If you have concerns about your seeds, reach out and we will do our best to help.
Frequently asked
Questions about Begonia Seeds – Begonia
How long do begonia seeds take to germinate?
Begonia germination tips all point to the same truth: these are slow, fine seeds that typically sprout anywhere from 14 to 21 days under ideal conditions, though it can take up to 30 days if temperatures are inconsistent. Germination depends on climate, soil temperature, moisture, and the care you give during that waiting period. Do not be discouraged by slow sprouts as long as the mix stays evenly moist and warm.
Do begonia seeds need light to germinate?
Yes, begonia seeds require light to germinate and should never be covered with soil or vermiculite after sowing. Press them onto the surface of moist seed-starting mix and place the tray under grow lights or in a bright spot, keeping lights just a few inches above the tray for 14 to 16 hours per day. A clear humidity dome lets light through while maintaining the moisture these seeds need.
When should I start begonia seeds indoors?
Most gardeners should start begonia seeds indoors 12 to 16 weeks before the last frost date in their area, which often means starting in January or February in USDA zones 5 through 7. Tuberous begonia growing requires an even earlier start, sometimes as much as 18 weeks out, to allow the tubers to develop before transplant time. Check your local frost dates and count back from there to set your sowing window.
Are begonias safe for pets?
Begonias are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, and the ASPCA lists the entire plant as a concern, with the highest concentration of soluble oxalates found in the underground portions. Ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, and in larger amounts, more serious kidney-related symptoms in cats. If you have pets that chew on plants or dig, consider placing begonias in hanging baskets or elevated containers out of reach.
Can begonias grow in full sun?
Most begonias prefer partial to full shade, which is precisely why they are such valued shade flowering plants for spots under trees, on north-facing porches, and along shaded borders. Wax begonias are the most sun-tolerant type, and some varieties can handle morning sun with afternoon shade, but even they tend to scorch and drop flowers in intense midday heat. In hotter climates especially, shade in the afternoon hours is important for keeping plants looking their best.
What soil pH is best for begonias?
Begonia soil requirements include a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally in the range of 5.5 to 6.5. Soils outside this range can interfere with nutrient uptake and lead to yellowing foliage even when fertilizer is applied. A simple soil test from your local extension office or garden center can confirm your pH and guide any amendments needed before planting.
Are begonias annual or perennial?
Whether begonias behave as annuals or perennials depends largely on your climate and the type you are growing. In USDA zones 9 through 11, wax begonias and some fibrous-rooted types can survive year-round outdoors as perennials. In cooler zones, most gardeners treat them as annuals, though tuberous begonias can be dug up after the first frost, dried, and stored indoors through winter to replant the following spring.