Knowing what temperatures begonias can handle is important for their health, whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting to play around with plants. These beautiful flowering plants have specific temperature preferences that can greatly impact their growth and blooming. This article will talk about the biology of begonias, how temperature affects their growth, the temperature tolerance of different types of begonias, how to make them adapt to different temperatures, and some of the most common problems that can happen because of temperature. So, lets dive in!.
Begonias are stunning flowers that come in a variety of colors and sizes, from petite begonias to giant flowering varieties. With their showy blooms and attractive foliage, it’s no wonder begonias are so popular. But like all plants, begonias have preferences when it comes to growing conditions. Understanding what temperatures begonias can tolerate is key to helping them thrive.
An Overview of Begonia Temperature Tolerance
Most begonias prefer warm temperatures and do not tolerate frost or freezing conditions. The ideal temperature range for begonias is between 65-85°F (18-29°C) during the day and 60-70°F (15-21°C) at night. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage begonias.
However, different begonia species and cultivars have varying levels of cold tolerance Factors like the duration of exposure, humidity levels, wind, and overall plant health also impact how well begonias handle lower temperatures
While begonias prefer warm conditions, some varieties are surprisingly hardy and can withstand brief temperature dips into the 40s F. Understanding the nuances of your specific begonias’ needs is key.
Growing Temperature Ranges for Popular Begonia Types
Wax Begonias
Wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens) are a popular bedding plant due to their non-stop blooms. They thrive in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) and can tolerate high humidity. However, wax begonias are not cold hardy and should be brought indoors or protected when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias (Begonia tuberhybrida) love warm, humid summers and flourish in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). These begonias flower heavily during summer’s peak heat. They require cool 40-50°F (4-10°C) temperatures during their winter dormancy period and will perish if exposed to frost
Rex Begonias
Rex begonias (Begonia rex) prefer warm temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C). Some varieties can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C), like those in the Jurassic series. In general, rex begonias do best in 60-70% humidity and temperatures above 55°F (13°C).
Angel Wing Begonias
Angel wing begonias (Begonia coccinea) enjoy warm conditions between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They can handle 60°F (16°C) at night but may stop blooming if temperatures drop lower. Providing angel wing begonias with bright, indirect light prevents leaf scorching in hot weather.
Hardy Begonias
Some begonia species are surprisingly hardy, withstanding cooler fall and winter temperatures. Winter-hardy begonias like Begonia grandis (hardy begonia), B. dregei (wax begonia), and B. masoniana (iron cross begonia) can tolerate temperatures down into the 30s and 40s F (−1 to 4°C). These begonias die back to the ground in winter but re-emerge in spring.
Providing Protection from Cold Temperatures
While most begonias cannot withstand freezing temperatures, there are steps you can take to help acclimate begonias and provide cold protection:
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Gradually expose begonias to cooler temperatures in fall to harden them off before winter arrives. This toughens the plant tissues.
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Provide shelter from cold winds, which can damage begonias even when air temperatures are not freezing.
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Mulch begonias to insulate roots and retain soil heat. Use straw or pine needles for best results.
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Cover aboveground plant parts with horticultural fleece or fabric row covers overnight if frost is expected. Remove covers during daytime.
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For potted begonias, move containers together and cover with insulating materials like straw bales or bags of leaves.
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Bring containerized begonias indoors to an area with bright, indirect light if nights become too cold.
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Water begonias less frequently in cool weather to prevent fungal issues from excess moisture.
Begonia Cold Tolerance by Species
Growing conditions play a major role, but here’s a general overview of cold tolerance for popular begonia species:
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Wax begonias: Damaged below 50°F (10°C)
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Tuberous begonias: Can handle down to 40°F (4°C)
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Rex begonias: Okay down to 50°F (10°C), some to 40°F (4°C)
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Angel wing begonias: Tolerate down to 60°F (16°C)
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Hardy begonias: Withstand temperatures into the 30s F (−1 to 4°C)
Check tags and plant descriptions to determine the best species and cultivars for your climate. Selecting begonias suited for your area will provide the best results.
Signs of Cold Damage in Begonias
If begonias experience overly cool temperatures, you may notice:
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Wilting, drooping leaves and stems
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Leaves turning brown or black
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Damaged, darkened flowers
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Slowed growth
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Leaf drop
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Dead stems and foliage
If caught quickly, begonias can sometimes bounce back from cold damage by moving them to a warmer area. But severe or prolonged chilling leads to dead leaves and ruined blooms.
Ensuring Warmth Loving Begonias Get Enough Heat
The key to growing begonias successfully is providing adequate warmth during the growing season and preventing exposure to extreme temperature drops. Here are some tips:
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Grow begonias in a sheltered, warm spot protected from wind. Against south-facing walls or foundations works well.
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Incorporate heat-retaining features like brick or stone pathways and walls. These soak up daytime sun and release warmth at night.
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Grow begonias in containers that can be easily moved as needed to prevent cold damage.
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Use greenhouse structures, cold frames, or fabric row covers to boost temperatures around begonias.
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Heat your home or greenhouse to keep indoor begonias warm when cold fronts arrive.
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Group containerized begonias together so they can share warmth.
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Paint terra cotta and other porous pots darker colors to absorb more heat.
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Provide adequate water to container plants during heat spells. Dry soil heats up faster.
Ensuring Begonia Success by Avoiding Temperature Extremes
Begonias require a delicate balance of daytime warmth and cooler nights to thrive. By understanding their temperature preferences and adjusting care accordingly, your begonias will flourish.
Pay close attention to long-range forecasts so you can be prepared to take protective measures if unusually cold temperatures threaten your plants. With a little extra care, begonias can grace your garden with their vibrant blooms from spring until fall frost in all but the coldest climates.
The Biology of Begonias
Before you can ask about the best temperature for begonias, you should know a few things about their biology. Begonias are part of the Begoniaceae family, which includes over 1,800 different species. They are native to tropical and subtropical areas around the world, and rainforests and high mountains are where they live naturally.
Begonias are in the Begoniaceae family. They have many different physical and morphological traits that help them do well in a wide range of conditions. These adaptations have made begonias one of the most diverse and successful plant groups on the planet.
The Importance of Temperature for Begonias
Temperature plays a vital role in the growth and blooming of begonias. Understanding how temperature affects these processes can help you provide the best care for your begonias.
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FAQ
What temperature is too cold for begonias?
When can I put begonias outside?
What temperature do begonias like at night?
When should I bring my begonias inside?
How cold can begonias grow?
Begonias planted in the ground can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4.4°C). It’s also important to note that begonias grown in cold climates need protection in the winter. If temperatures drop below the minimum temperature that begonias can tolerate, they should be covered with a blanket or tarp to protect them from the cold.
Should begonias be covered in the winter?
It’s also important to note that begonias grown in cold climates need protection in the winter. If temperatures drop below the minimum temperature that begonias can tolerate, they should be covered with a blanket or tarp to protect them from the cold. Finally, it’s important to pay attention to the temperature in your garden.
Do begonias eat cold?
Maintaining temperatures within this range is particularly crucial during the daytime, as begonias thrive when exposed to consistent, mild warmth. However, the nighttime temperatures should not plummet drastically, as begonias can be sensitive to cold.
How hot should begonias be at night?
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), especially during the night, to prevent potential stress and damage. Understanding the factors that influence begonia temperature preferences is key to creating an environment that promotes optimal growth.
Are begonias temperate?
Temperate Climate Begonias: Some begonias have adapted to temperate climates, enduring more varied temperature ranges. These species can tolerate cooler conditions, hinting at their ability to withstand fluctuations that might challenge their tropical counterparts.
Why are begonia leaves so cold tolerant?
Leaf Texture and Structure: The texture and structure of begonia leaves play a pivotal role in their cold tolerance. Some species boast thick, waxy leaves that act as natural insulators, providing a protective barrier against the cold. This adaptation minimizes the impact of temperature fluctuations on the plant’s overall health.