To store begonia tubers effectively for their dormant period, typically over winter, you need to provide a dry, dark, and cool environment that remains above freezing, while packing them in an insulating material.
Preparing Begonia Tubers for Winter Storage
Proper preparation is crucial to ensure your begonia tubers remain viable until spring. As temperatures drop and the first light frost arrives, it's time to prepare your tubers for storage.
- Lift the Tubers: After the foliage has been killed by frost, carefully dig up your begonia tubers. Be gentle to avoid damaging them.
- Clean and Dry: Gently brush off any excess soil. Do not wash the tubers, as moisture can lead to rot. Allow them to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for several days to a week until they are thoroughly dry and cured. This curing process helps to toughen the skin and prevents disease during storage.
Essential Steps for Storing Begonia Tubers
Once cleaned and dried, your begonia tubers are ready for their long winter's nap. The key is to protect them from moisture, light, and freezing temperatures.
Choosing a Storage Medium
The storage medium acts as an insulator, protecting the tubers from temperature fluctuations and excessive moisture. It also prevents them from shriveling.
Consider these effective options for packing your begonia tubers:
- Dry Peat Moss: This is a popular choice due to its excellent moisture-absorbing and insulating properties.
- Sawdust: Ensure the sawdust is completely dry and free from any chemicals.
- Sand: Use dry, horticultural sand. It provides good insulation and support.
- Vermiculite or Perlite: These lightweight minerals offer good aeration and insulation.
- Screen Trays: For excellent air circulation, place tubers on screen trays without packing material, especially if your storage area has consistent humidity.
- Other Insulating Material: Any dry, lightweight, non-compacting material that can provide cushioning and insulation will work.
Ideal Storage Conditions
Maintaining the right environmental conditions is paramount for successful tuber storage. The goal is to keep the tubers dormant without letting them rot or shrivel.
Here are the critical factors for optimal begonia tuber storage:
- Temperature: Maintain a cool temperature, ideally between 40-50°F (4-10°C). Crucially, the temperature must stay above freezing to prevent cell damage.
- Light: Store tubers in a dark area. Light can encourage premature sprouting.
- Humidity: The environment should be dry. Excessive humidity combined with lack of air circulation can lead to fungal diseases and rot.
| Storage Factor | Ideal Condition | Why it Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Cool (40-50°F / 4-10°C) and above freezing | Prevents premature sprouting and freezing damage |
| Light | Dark | Inhibits early growth; promotes dormancy |
| Humidity | Dry | Prevents rot and fungal diseases |
| Aeration | Good circulation | Reduces risk of mold and decay |
Packing Your Tubers
Once you've selected your storage medium, carefully pack the tubers.
- Layering: Place a layer of your chosen insulating material at the bottom of a cardboard box, plastic crate, or mesh bag.
- Add Tubers: Lay the begonia tubers on top, ensuring they don't touch each other if possible.
- Cover: Cover the tubers with another layer of the insulating material.
- Repeat: Continue layering until the container is full, finishing with a top layer of insulation.
- Label: Label the container with the begonia variety and date.
Store the packed containers in a suitable location such as a cool basement, unheated garage, or frost-free shed. Periodically check the tubers during winter for any signs of rot or shriveling. Remove any affected tubers immediately to prevent spread.
Replanting Begonia Tubers in Spring
As spring approaches and the threat of hard frost passes, you can begin the process of restarting your begonia tubers for a new growing season.
- Timing: About 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date, typically in early spring.
- Method: Place the tubers, hollow side up, on a bed of damp potting soil in a shallow tray or pot.
- Environment: Provide a warm environment, ideally around 70°F (21°C), with bright, indirect light.
- Care: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Sprouts will emerge in a few weeks. Once they have developed a few leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots.
By following these steps, you can successfully store your begonia tubers and enjoy their vibrant blooms year after year. For further reading on begonia care, you can consult resources like the University of Maryland Extension or Oregon State University Extension.
