Begonias are popular in container gardening for their vibrant flowers and striking foliage, offering a tropical appearance to shaded patios and porches. Pairing them with complementary plants creates a lush, multi-textured display. Selecting appropriate companions depends entirely on meeting the specific environmental needs of the begonia itself.
Essential Growing Conditions
Successful mixed containers require a shared environment, typically shade or partial shade. Most varieties prefer bright, filtered light or morning sun, as intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves and fade colors. They require a rich, well-draining potting mix, often amended with perlite or vermiculite for aeration. Containers must have excellent drainage to prevent the root rot that occurs in soggy soil. Consistent moisture is necessary, but the soil should be allowed to dry slightly, about an inch or two deep, between watering sessions.
Compatible Companion Plants
The ideal companions must tolerate the same conditions: shade, consistent moisture, and rich soil. Foliage plants offer strong contrast and a long season of interest next to the begonia’s leaves.
Foliage and Texture Companions
- Coleus is a top choice, providing an array of textures and colors, from deep burgundy to chartreuse, which thrives in the same shade and moisture levels.
- Shade-loving ferns, such as the ‘Kimberly Queen’ or autumn fern, offer a fine, delicate texture and a reliable green backdrop that highlights the begonia’s blooms.
- Caladiums, with their large, heart-shaped, multi-colored leaves, make a spectacular foliage pairing, though their need for warmth makes them better suited to tuberous or wax begonia varieties.
Trailing and Flowering Companions
To introduce a trailing element, creeping Jenny (Lysimachia numnumularia) or non-vigorous sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas) work well, cascading over the pot’s edge. The bright yellow-green of creeping Jenny contrasts sharply with darker begonia foliage, providing a light-reflecting element in a shady spot. For added flower power, shade-tolerant annuals like New Guinea Impatiens or Wishbone Flower (Torenia) offer continuous blooms in complementary colors.
Principles of Container Design
Mixed begonia container design is guided by the “Thriller, Filler, Spiller” concept. Upright cane or large tuberous begonias can serve as the main focal point or “Thriller.” More compact varieties, like the fibrous-rooted wax begonia, often function as the “Filler,” providing mass and continuous color around a central plant.
Design should focus on contrasting leaf shapes and colors to maximize visual depth. Pairing the begonia’s large, glossy leaves with the fine fronds of a fern or the tiny foliage of creeping Jenny creates textural interest. Color matching involves selecting companions with similar hues for a monochromatic look, or choosing contrasting colors, such as purple coleus next to a pink-flowering begonia, to make both colors stand out.
Seasonal Care for Mixed Pots
Maintaining a mixed container requires attention to the competing needs of multiple plants in a limited soil volume. Improper watering is the most common mistake; check the moisture level deep in the pot, not just the surface. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the entire root ball is saturated, then allow the top layer to dry out before watering again.
Since nutrients are quickly depleted, a consistent fertilization schedule is necessary throughout the growing season. Applying a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks provides the nourishment needed for sustained blooming and foliage growth. Pruning and deadheading are essential to prevent companions from outcompeting the begonia.
Removing spent begonia flowers encourages new blooms. Pinching back the tips of vigorous companions, such as coleus or sweet potato vine, helps maintain a compact, bushy shape. This selective pruning prevents aggressive plants from shading out the begonias. Maintaining good air circulation by removing yellowing or dead leaves also helps prevent fungal diseases.