Many gardeners wonder whether begonias can grow in full sun, or if they are only suitable for shady spots. Thanks to years of breeding, several new begonia varieties have been developed to not only tolerate but thrive in sunny conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the best begonias for sun exposure and provide essential care tips to help them flourish in bright, hot locations.
Do Begonias Prefer Sun or Shade?
Traditionally, begonias are known for their preference for shaded environments. However, through selective breeding, many modern begonia varieties have been cultivated to withstand direct sunlight, making them suitable for sunnier spots in your garden. This means you no longer have to limit begonias to shaded corners—they can now thrive in sunny areas as well.
Best Begonias for Full Sun Exposure
If you’re looking for begonias that will flourish in sunny conditions, here are five excellent varieties to consider:
1. Surefire Begonias
The Surefire series of begonias (Begonia x benariensis) are hybrid plants known for their vibrant flowers in shades of red, pink, and white. These begonias are perfect for full sun, tolerating hot, sunny days with ease. They can grow up to 2 feet tall and are low-maintenance, requiring only regular watering to keep their colorful blooms going throughout the summer.
2. Dragon Wing Begonias
Combining the durability of wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens) with the trailing growth habits of other begonia species, Dragon Wing begonias are a great choice for hanging baskets and containers. With large clusters of flowers and green to bronze leaves, these begonias require little upkeep, thriving in full sun without needing to deadhead flowers or pinch back stems.
3. San Francisco Begonias
This variety (Begonia boliviensis) is a hybrid bred to grow well in both sun and shade. San Francisco begonias have long, narrow leaves and arching stems, giving them a unique appearance. Their vibrant pink flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making them a fantastic choice for hanging baskets in sunny locations.
4. Summerwings Tuberous Begonias
The Summerwings series of tuberous begonias (Begonia x tuberhybrida) features both trailing and mounding varieties, growing to about a foot tall. With bright flowers in shades of red, pink, or orange, these begonias bloom continuously throughout the summer. They thrive in full sun to part shade, requiring no deadheading to keep the blooms going strong.
5. Double Delight Tuberous Begonias
Double Delight begonias are known for their double-layered, petal-packed blooms that cover the plant all summer. These begonias grow to about a foot tall and come in soft shades of pink, red, and yellow. Their lightly fragrant flowers add extra appeal, making them perfect for containers or hanging baskets in sunny spots.
Tips for Growing Begonias in Full Sun
To successfully grow begonias in sunny locations, proper care is essential. Follow these key tips to ensure your begonias thrive:
Watering
Begonias require consistent moisture, especially in sunny areas where the soil can dry out quickly. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, avoiding a set schedule. Over-watering or underwatering can damage the plant, so always ensure the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. In hot conditions, be vigilant about watering to prevent leaf burn and wilting.
Soil Quality
Begonias thrive in loamy, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter like compost. The soil should retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain. For potted begonias, opt for a high-quality potting mix containing organic material along with perlite or sand for better drainage. If using peat-based mixes, be cautious, as peat can become hydrophobic when it dries out, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water.
Airflow and Humidity
While begonias need moisture and warmth, they also benefit from good airflow to prevent diseases and avoid excessive heat buildup. Ensure the plants are spaced adequately to allow air to circulate around them, especially in containers. Removing any nearby weeds or debris will help maintain a healthy growing environment.
Choosing the Right Container
Begonias can grow in both the ground and containers, but it’s crucial to choose the right type of container when planting in full sun. While unglazed terracotta pots are great for preventing overwatering, they can dry out too quickly in hot sun, causing stress to the plant. Instead, opt for plastic pots that retain moisture better and prevent the soil from drying out too quickly, ensuring your begonia remains hydrated.
Thanks to modern breeding techniques, begonias are no longer limited to shaded areas and can thrive in full sun with the right care. The five varieties mentioned here—Surefire, Dragon Wing, San Francisco, Summerwings, and Double Delight—are perfect for sunny spots and will reward you with beautiful blooms all summer long. Remember to provide the right watering, soil, and container conditions, and your begonias will flourish in the sun, adding color and life to your garden or patio.
