Grow Massive Rose-Like Begonia Bada Boom Plants with Bronze Foliage

An Introduction to Begonia Bada Boom Rose

The begonia bada boom rose is a stunning variety of wax begonia known for its extra large, rose-like flowers that can grow up to 3 inches in diameter. Native to Brazil, begonias are beloved for their colorful blooms and attractive foliage that add pops of color to gardens, patio containers, hanging baskets, and window boxes.

Key Features of Begonia Bada Boom Rose

Some of the key features that make begonia bada boom rose a top choice for gardeners include:

• Massive rose-like flowers in shades of pink, red, white, or yellow
• Dark bronze foliage that contrasts beautifully with the bright blooms
• Blooms continuously spring through first fall frost
• Heat and drought tolerant once established
• Does well in sun or part shade
• Works great in containers or garden beds

Growing Tips for Begonia Bada Boom Rose

Follow these simple tips to successfully grow begonia bada boom rose plants with huge, long-lasting flowers:

Provide Rich, Well-Drained Soil

Begonias thrive in soil that is loose, nutrient-rich, and able to retain some moisture while still draining well. Amend garden beds with compost or aged manure before planting. For containers, use a quality commercial potting mix.

Water When Top Inch of Soil is Dry

Established wax begonias are fairly drought resistant, but consistent watering is key, especially when plants are young or in hot weather. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings then soak the root zone thoroughly.

Fertilize Every 2-3 Weeks

Feed begonias with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. This will fuel the steady flush of flowers these plants produce.

How to Plant Begonia Bada Boom Rose

One of the great advantages of growing begonia bada boom rose is that they are very easy to plant. Follow this simple guide for success:

When to Plant

In most climates, wax begonias should be planted outdoors after any chance of frost has passed, typically early to mid spring. They can also be started 4-6 weeks early indoors or in a greenhouse.

Choosing a Site

Select a site with full sun to partial shade exposure. Begonias appreciate 4-6 hours of sun, but benefit from some afternoon shade in hot southern climates.

Preparing the Soil

Improvenative soil by mixing in 2-3 inches of finished compost or other organic matter before planting. For containers, use a quality potting mix.

Planting Procedure

Wax begonias look fantastic massed in groupings or solitary. Space plants 12-15 inches apart in garden beds. Place directly in soil at same level they were growing in nursery pots. Water thoroughly after planting.

Caring for Begonia Bada Boom Rose

Proper care is easy with begonia bada boom rose and will keep plants flowering nonstop all season:

Water and Fertilize Consistently

Water begonias when top inch of soil becomes dry, providing a thorough soaking. Feed every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Consistent water and nutrients fuel prolific flowering.

Prune Spent Blooms

While wax begonias bloom heavily, pruning faded flowers as blooms start to decline encourages more buds to form. Use sharp scissors/shears for clean cuts.

Stake Tall Varieties

Some larger growing types may need staking to keep plants tidy and upright once they reach 12-18 inches tall. Use short stakes and soft plant ties to secure stems.

Move Containers to Ideal Locations

One benefit of growing in pots is that begonias can be easily moved to capture more sun in spring and shade in summer. Locate containers in optimum sites for each season.

Overwintering Begonia Bada Boom Rose

While technically tender annuals in cooler climates, begonia bada boom rose can often be overwintered indoors the first year, giving you a head start on beautiful flowers the following spring:

Take Cuttings in Late Summer

Take 4-6 inch stem tip cuttings from established plants 6-8 weeks before your first fall frost date. Remove lower leaves and place in pots filled with soilless rooting mix.

Grow Cuttings Under Lights

Place pots in bright, warm area or under grow lights set to 14 hours per day. Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy until roots form in 2-4 weeks.

Transition to a Sunny Window

Once rooted, transition begonia cuttings to a sunny, south-facing window to grow through winter. Pinch back leggy growth to promote bushiness.

Plant Outdoors After Frost Danger

Move wax begonias outdoors again next spring after all danger of frost has passed. Water and fertilize to support a strong repeat bloom.

Common Problems With Begonia Bada Boom Rose

When provided with appropriate growing conditions, begonia bada boom rose are remarkably trouble-free. But watch for these few potential issues:

Powdery Mildew

The fungal disease powdery mildew may affect begonias grown in overly humid, shady sites. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage to reduce risk.

Botrytis Blight

The fungus botrytis blight can attack stressed or damaged wax begonias, causing lesions on leaves, wilting, or plant death. Promptly remove affected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.

Aphids

Small sap-sucking aphids can sometimes infest begonia leaves and stems, causing distortion, spotting, or wilting. Knock aphids off with water spray or use insecticidal soap treatment if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

With massive rose flowers over hardy foliage, begonia bada boom rose definitely lives up to its name. Follow our growing guide for tips on how to maximize the beauty of this stellar begonia in your own garden!

FAQs

How big do begonia bada boom rose plants get?

These begonias typically reach 12-18 inches tall and wide in the garden. They have a mounded, bushy habit and combine nicely with other annuals and perennials in mixed beds and containers.

What are good companion plants for begonia bada boom rose?

Some great options include flowering annuals like petunias, marigolds, zinnias, and dahlias. Herb companions can include basil, chives, parsley and dill. Begonias also combine beautifully with garden roses.

Should I deadhead my begonia bada boom rose flowers?

Yes, pruning off spent begonia blooms as they start to fade using sharp scissors or shears tidy plants up and encourages continual new flowering. Always make cuts just above healthy leaf nodes.

Can I bring my potted begonias indoors for winter?

Begonia bada boom rose typically survive best as annuals in cooler climates. But you can dig up bulbs after frost kills foliage and store dormant over winter indoors for replanting next year. Taking late summer cuttings to overwinter as houseplants also works well.