What Are Begonia Corms? Unveiling the Mystery Behind These Garden Gems!
What To Know
- The corms act as a survival mechanism, allowing the plant to conserve energy and survive the harsh conditions.
- In colder climates, dig up the corms before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.
- Store the dried corms in a paper bag or cardboard box in a cool, dry place.
The world of gardening is filled with fascinating plants, each with its unique characteristics and growing habits. One such plant, captivating gardeners with its vibrant colors and diverse forms, is the begonia. While many are familiar with the beautiful begonia flowers, few understand the hidden secrets of its growth – the begonia corms.
What are Begonia Corms?
Begonia corms are essentially underground stems, similar to bulbs, that serve as storage organs for the plant. They act as a reservoir of nutrients and energy, allowing the begonia to thrive and produce stunning blooms year after year. These corms are typically round or oval-shaped, with a rough, brown outer skin.
The Importance of Begonia Corms
Understanding begonia corms is crucial for successful begonia cultivation. These underground treasures play a vital role in the plant’s life cycle:
- Dormancy: During winter, when temperatures drop and daylight hours decrease, begonia plants enter a dormant period. The corms act as a survival mechanism, allowing the plant to conserve energy and survive the harsh conditions.
- Renewal: As spring approaches, the corms awaken, sending up new shoots and leaves. This process is fueled by the stored nutrients and energy within the corms, ensuring a vigorous and healthy growth.
- Propagation: Begonia corms are also a valuable tool for propagation. By dividing or separating the corms, gardeners can easily create new plants, expanding their begonia collection.
Types of Begonia Corms
Begonia corms are classified into two main types:
- Tuberous Begonias: These begonias are known for their large, showy flowers and are popular for their stunning displays in gardens and containers. Their corms are typically larger and more robust than those of fibrous-rooted begonias.
- Fibrous-Rooted Begonias: These begonias are typically smaller and more compact than tuberous begonias. They produce smaller flowers and are often grown as houseplants or in hanging baskets. Their corms are smaller and less prominent.
Planting Begonia Corms
Planting begonia corms is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort:
1. Choose the right time: The best time to plant begonia corms is in spring, after the last frost has passed.
2. Prepare the soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
3. Plant the corms: Place the corms with the “eye” or growth point facing upwards, about 1-2 inches deep in the soil.
4. Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
5. Provide sunlight: Begonia corms need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
Caring for Begonia Corms
Once planted, begonia corms require minimal care to thrive:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
- Winter dormancy: In colder climates, dig up the corms before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.
Harvesting and Storing Begonia Corms
Once the flowering season is over, you can harvest your begonia corms for storage and propagation:
- Dig up the corms: Gently dig up the corms after the leaves have died back.
- Clean and dry: Remove any excess soil and allow the corms to dry completely in a cool, airy place.
- Store in a cool, dry location: Store the dried corms in a paper bag or cardboard box in a cool, dry place.
The Beauty of Begonia Corms
Begonia corms are more than just underground storage organs; they are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these beautiful plants. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the plant’s life cycle and provide gardeners with a unique opportunity to propagate and enjoy these vibrant blooms season after season.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q1: What are the signs of a healthy begonia corm?
A: A healthy begonia corm will be firm, plump, and free of any soft spots, mold, or discoloration. The “eye” or growth point should be visible and intact.
Q2: How long can I store begonia corms?
A: Begonia corms can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place. They can even be stored for a year or longer if properly dried and kept in ideal conditions.
Q3: Can I grow begonia corms from seed?
A: Yes, you can grow begonia corms from seed, but it is a more time-consuming process than starting with a corm. Seed-grown begonias may take longer to bloom and may not be as vigorous as those grown from corms.
Q4: What are some common problems that can affect begonia corms?
A: Common problems that can affect begonia corms include rot, fungal diseases, and pests. Proper storage and care can help prevent these issues.
Q5: How do I divide begonia corms for propagation?
A: To divide begonia corms, carefully cut the corm into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one “eye” or growth point. Let the cut surfaces dry for a day or two before planting.