Lifting Begonias in October: Tips and Advice for Storing Tubers Over Winter

As temperatures drop in October, it’s time to lift and store your begonia tubers to protect them from frost and ensure they’re ready for replanting next spring. Begonias, particularly tuberous varieties, are sensitive to cold and cannot survive freezing temperatures. Lifting the tubers and storing them properly over the winter will keep them healthy and allow them to thrive again next year. In this guide, we’ll explain how to lift begonias in October, store the tubers, and provide tips for ensuring they remain in good condition until it’s time to replant.

Why Lift Begonias in October?

Tuberous begonias are not frost-hardy and will die if left in the ground during winter. October is the ideal time to lift them because the plants are starting to go dormant, and the cooler weather signals that the growing season is ending. By lifting begonias before the first frost, you can safely store the tubers indoors until spring, when they can be replanted for another beautiful growing season.

Step-by-Step Guide to Lifting Begonias in October

1. Wait for the Foliage to Yellow: Before lifting begonias, wait until the foliage begins to yellow and die back. This indicates that the plant is entering dormancy, and the tuber has stored enough energy to survive the winter. Cutting back too early can weaken the tuber.
2. Cut Back the Stems: Once the foliage has yellowed, use clean garden shears to cut back the stems to about 3-4 inches above the tuber. Cutting back the stems makes lifting the tubers easier and reduces the risk of damaging the plant when handling it.
3. Lift the Tubers Gently: Using a garden fork or spade, carefully dig around the begonia tuber, starting a few inches away from the plant to avoid damaging the tuber. Gently lift the tuber from the soil, being mindful of its delicate roots.
4. Remove Excess Soil: Shake off or gently brush away excess soil from the tubers. Avoid washing them with water, as moisture can cause rot during storage. It’s okay if a little soil remains; the goal is to remove most of the dirt without damaging the tuber.
5. Dry the Tubers: After lifting, allow the tubers to dry in a cool, dry place for a few days to cure. This step helps harden the outer skin of the tubers and reduces the risk of rot during storage. Lay them out on newspaper or a tray in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight.
6. Store the Tubers for Winter: Once the tubers have dried, store them in a cool, dark, frost-free place for the winter. Ideal storage locations include a garage, basement, or shed where temperatures stay between 40°F and 50°F (4°C-10°C). Place the tubers in a cardboard box, paper bag, or mesh bag, surrounded by dry peat moss, sawdust, or vermiculite to prevent moisture buildup and rot.
7. Check Periodically: During the winter months, check the tubers every few weeks for signs of rot or mold. Discard any tubers that show signs of decay to prevent it from spreading to healthy ones. If the tubers look shriveled, lightly mist them with water to prevent them from drying out too much.

Replanting Begonias in Spring

When spring arrives and the risk of frost has passed, it’s time to replant the tubers. Here’s how to get them off to a good start:

• Pre-sprout Indoors: About 4-6 weeks before the last frost, you can start sprouting begonia tubers indoors by planting them in pots with well-draining soil. Place them in a bright, warm spot indoors to give them a head start on the growing season.
• Plant Outdoors After Frost: Once the weather has warmed, transplant the sprouted tubers outdoors, or plant the unsprouted tubers directly in the garden. Make sure to place them in a location with partial shade and well-drained soil.

Additional Tips for Lifting and Storing Begonia Tubers

• Label the Tubers: If you are lifting multiple begonia varieties, label each tuber or storage container with the variety name and color. This will help you identify and organize them for replanting next spring.
• Avoid Overwatering Before Lifting: In the weeks leading up to lifting your begonias, reduce watering to help the plant transition into dormancy. This prevents excess moisture from being trapped in the tubers, which can lead to rot.
• Do Not Store in Plastic Bags: Avoid storing tubers in plastic bags or sealed containers, as this traps moisture and encourages mold and rot. Always use breathable materials like paper or mesh bags.

Common Questions and Answers

Q1: How do I know when my begonias are ready to be lifted?
Begonias are ready to be lifted when the foliage begins to yellow and die back in the fall. This is a sign that the plant is going dormant, and the tubers have stored enough energy for winter.

Q2: Can I store begonia tubers in my refrigerator?
It’s not recommended to store begonia tubers in the refrigerator, as it is often too cold and humid. Instead, store them in a cool, dry place like a garage, basement, or shed where temperatures are between 40°F and 50°F (4°C-10°C).

Q3: What should I do if my tubers start to rot during storage?
If you notice any signs of rot or mold, remove the affected tubers immediately to prevent it from spreading to the healthy ones. Make sure the storage environment is dry and cool to avoid further rot.

Q4: How long can begonia tubers be stored?
Begonia tubers can be stored for several months over the winter, as long as they are kept in cool, dry conditions. Check them periodically and replant in spring after the risk of frost has passed.

Q5: Should I water my tubers during storage?
No, do not water the tubers during storage. If the tubers become too dry and shriveled, you can mist them lightly, but the goal is to keep them dry to prevent rot.