Most begonias do not require very much full sun. They are a flower that likes moist soil and part shade. Full sun, particularly in hotter climates, is often bad for these lovely flowers. Four hours of sun is plenty for begonias, although they will tolerate up to six. The best time to provide full sun for your begonias is in the morning when the heat and the strength of the sun are not as intense. Indirect sunlight is usually adequate for begonias to grow and thrive.
How Many Hours of Sun Do Begonias Need?
Begonias should have 4–6 hours of direct sun per day, preferably in the morning when the sun’s rays are not as intense as they are later in the day. There are only two varieties of begonia bushes that thrive in full sun.
- Most begonias need 4–6 hours of direct sun per day.
- Morning is the best time for begonia bushes to receive full sun.
- Wax begonias and dragon wing begonias should have up to 8 hours of full sun for the best results.
Wax begonias and dragon wing begonias need up to 8 hours of full sun per day. However, 8 hours is typically too much sun exposure for most other varieties and can lead to problems. On the other hand, if any variety of begonia is sun-deprived, blooms will not be lush and full.
Can Begonias Grow in Indirect Sunlight?
Virtually all begonia varieties will grow and thrive in filtered sunlight. In fact, most begonia varieties grow their best when exposed to only a few hours of morning sun and then afternoon light that is dappled with shade. This prevents them from getting a condition called “heat stress,” and will also ensure the flowers grow to their fullest without you having to worry about them getting sun-scorched.
- Almost all begonia varieties will thrive in indirect sunlight.
- Most begonia bushes prefer dappled sunlight and shade to direct sun.
- Indoor begonias should be placed where indirect sunlight, rather than full sun, is available.
If you’re planning to grow begonias inside, make sure you place them in a position that will give them indirect sunlight, rather than making them face a hot windowsill that has no break from the sun. Part of the reason begonias grow so well in indirect sunlight is because of their swirling leaf design. It is an intricate type of leaf that does not require full sun for optimum photosynthesis.
Can Begonias Grow in Shade?
Begonias can easily grow in the shade. Certain varieties even bloom throughout the summer in virtually total shade. Although begonias do need some direct sunlight, it is best for them to get their sun in the morning and have shade in the afternoon when temperatures are typically at their hottest. Dappled sunlight through the shade is usually enough for begonias to grow and flourish.
- Begonias will grow and thrive in shade.
- Although they need some sun, begonias do fine with dappled sunlight.
- Afternoon shade should always be provided for begonias.
Part shade is the best “happy medium” for begonias. If you are starting your begonias indoors, it is not necessary to provide shade in the afternoon as it would be if you had planted them outside. Just make sure they get indirect light and they will thrive.
What Happens if Begonias Don’t Get Enough Sun?
Although begonias typically thrive in the shade, it is possible for them to become sun-deprived. There are two primary issues that can result from too little sun exposure. Your begonias may develop a condition called “powdery mildew,” which is caused by an imbalance of sunlight and moisture.
- Begonias can fail to thrive if they are kept from direct sunlight.
- Powdery mildew may develop on begonia bushes that are deprived of sun.
- A minimum of 4 hours of direct sun each day eliminates these problems.
If deprived of sun, begonias may also grow in a tall and spindly manner, rather than their classic shape. Additionally, begonia flowers may not grow as full or as big if they are sun-deprived.
Can Begonias Get Too Much Sun?
Begonias can get too much sun, which can quickly lead to their demise. Anything more than 6 hours of direct sunlight will harm and scorch most varieties of begonias. In hot climates, where the sun is particularly strong, their direct sun exposure should be limited to 2–4 hours of morning sun with the right amount of water. This should be followed by indirect light or shade for the rest of the day.
- Too much sun exposure is possible for begonias.
- In very hot climates, anything more than 2–4 hours of full sun could be dangerous for begonia bushes.
- Signs of excessive sun exposure include wilting, brown spots, and the death of blossoms.
Begonias exposed to too much sun may wilt or develop brown or yellow spots on their leaves. Additionally, the blossoms may die or fail to bloom entirely. They may also lose their natural color. Long-term, excessive sun exposure can seriously damage most begonia varieties.
How Much Sun Do Begonias Require?
Most begonias do very well without much direct sunlight. They prefer part shade and moist soil. Full, direct sunlight, especially in hotter areas, can seriously damage these beautiful flowers.
- Most begonias will do fine in 4 hours of direct sun.
- Up to 6 hours of direct sun is tolerated well by most begonia varieties.
- Indirect sunlight is typically adequate for begonias to grow and flourish.
- Morning sun and afternoon shade is the ideal combination for begonias.
Hardy begonias will thrive with relatively little sunlight. This makes them an ideal flower for indoor growers. They’re also an excellent choice for growing gorgeous flowers in shady portions of your garden.
