Fragrant Red Glory

Planting Fragrant Red Glory begonia bulbs is a simple and rewarding process.

• Start by selecting a well-draining potting mix and an appropriate container with drainage holes or place it in the garden.
• Plant the bulbs in spring when the risk of frost has passed, placing them about 1-2 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart, with the rounded side down and the pointed side up.
• Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
• Make sure to place your begonias in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight or dappled shade, as direct sun can damage the delicate foliage.
• Fertilize your begonias monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season for best results.

Fragrant Red Glory begonia bulbs typically bloom from mid-summer to early fall, depending on the planting time and local climate. The blooms can last for several months, providing a striking display of vibrant red flowers with a delightful fragrance.

To extend the blooming period, deadhead spent blooms regularly, which encourages the plant to produce more flowers. Keep in mind that temperature and sunlight conditions can affect the blooming time, so ensure your begonias receive adequate light and consistent temperatures between 60-75°F for optimal flowering.

Yes, Fragrant Red Glory begonia bulbs can be grown indoors as long as they receive proper care and suitable growing conditions. Place your potted begonias near a bright window that receives indirect sunlight or filtered light, as too much direct sun can cause leaf burn.

Maintain a consistent temperature between 60-75°F, and provide adequate humidity by using a pebble tray or humidifier. Water the plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Feed your indoor begonias with a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming.

Fragrant Red Glory begonia bulbs are in most colder regions not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures. If you live in a region that experiences frost, it is essential to plant your begonias after the last frost date in spring.

Alternatively, you can start the bulbs indoors for 6-8 weeks before transplanting them outside once the weather warms up. If you have potted begonias, bring them indoors during cold snaps or winter months to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Store dormant bulbs in a cool, dry, and dark location at a temperature between 40-50°F during the winter.

Begonias are frost-tolerant in areas with mild winters, such as in USDA hardiness zone 9 and up. Within these zones, you can leave them in the ground year-round.

To store Fragrant Red Glory begonia bulbs for the winter, follow these steps (for northern regions).

• First, dig up the bulbs after the foliage has yellowed and withered, usually after the first frost.
• Gently remove any excess soil and cut back the remaining foliage to about 1 inch.
• Allow the bulbs to air dry for 1-2 weeks in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Store the bulbs in a paper bag or a breathable container filled with peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite.
• Keep the storage area cool, dry, and dark with a consistent temperature between 40-50°F.
• Check the bulbs periodically for signs of rot or damage and discard any affected bulbs to prevent the spread of disease.

These steps don’t apply to you if you live in a warmer area, such as USDA hardiness zone 9 and up. Within these zones, they can be left outside year-round.