
Easy-Care Begonias
Shade dwellers by nature, these perennials look like color-rich, sun-loving annuals

Outdoors, rex begonias like part- to deep shade, ordinary potting soil, and water when the top inch or so of the soil is dry. Give them a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month, or add granular timed-release fertilizer to the potting soil at planting time. Avoid misting the leaves; alkaline water just desiccates them. Instead, when humidity drops to below 10 percent, hose down the patio floor and water the plants. In Sunset climate zones 14–24, H1, and H2, begonias can remain outdoors year-round. In colder climates, bring plants indoors before cold weather arrives.
THE BEST REXAll rex begonias are gems in their own way, but the following are our favorites among the new varieties. If you have trouble finding these rex begonias at your garden center, try ordering from Plants for Kids or Logee’s Greenhouses (888/330-8038).
Great American Cities ‘Houston Fiesta’ Midsize leaves with bright pink, green, and white markings.