Summer perfect for begonias

PLANTING: EXPERT SHARES TIPS ON HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR LONG-LASTING FLOWERS

- Alice Spenser-Higgs

MULTI-PETALLED. Indoor begonias. Pictures: Supplied

(Supplied)

In terms of indoor and patio flower-power tuberous begonias are hard to beat.

Their huge, frilly multi-petalled blooms offset by large lightly serrated green leaves makes them a feature wherever they are placed.

With the right kind of care, they are long-lasting house plants, that can be divided and even planted out in shady areas in summer.

Indoor begonias need up to six hours of indirect bright light (no direct sunlight) a day.

They are best positioned close to north or east facing windows, or even west facing windows if the room doesn't get too hot.

However, they don't mind being moved into a shadier position to decorate the home for a special occasion.

Just move them back into a well-lit position after a few days.

Summer humidity suits begonias and they can also be kept on a pebble tray or combined with other plants to create a humid microclimate. Feed with a liquid fertiliser once a month in summer.