Begonia

This this genus belongs to the begoniacae family and contains around 900 species of perennials, shrubs, and climbers that are found throughout the tropics and subtropics. The most diverse species occur in the Americas.

Cultivation

Outside of tropical climates, begonias are best grown as indoor container plants. They grow well in a bright but not sunny position with cool, moist, humus-rich soil and  need to be watered and fed well. Begonias are susceptible to fungal diseases so they need to have good air flow around them.

Top Tip     

The many varieties of begonia offer a range of choices for the keen gardener. Some are suitable for basket planting, others as bedding annuals, while some cultivars are suited to terrarium planting.                                                     

DAHLIA

This daisy family genus consists of around 30 species of tuberous rooted perennials and sub-shrubs. They  have attractive foliage, with deep to bright green lobed leaves, hollow stems, and bold flower heads that, due to much cultivation, may vary greatly. Dahlias can be broadly divided into tall border plants  and low-growing bedding dahlias, though a more detailed classification sorts them into 10 groups based on the size and type of flower head this ranges from tiny  pompon to large giant flowered cactus types. Colors include shades of white and cream to bright yellow and deep red. Mostly native to Mexico, these flamboyant plants were originally cultivated by the Aztecs for their large edible roots.

Cultivation

Plant dahlias in sunny open position with fertile, free draining, humus-rich soil. In cold climates, where frozen or waterlogged soil is likely to occur, the tubers should be lifted and stored near-dry in a frost free place. Most species  can be propagated by dividing the tubers or by taking cuttings of young shoots.

Top Tip

When planting dahlias, select a site that is sheltered from strong winds. Even in a protected spot, dahlias will often need staking to prevent them falling over.

BOUGAINVILLEA بوگن ولیہ

Known for their brilliant floral displays and ground-covering power, bougainvilleas بوگن ولیہ  are strong-growing climbers and trailers from the tropics and subtropics of south America. their wonderful colors come not from their true flowers, which are small cream tubes, but from the leafy bracts that surround them. the leaves  are simple, elliptical and taper to a fine pint. Rather than climb by tendrils or twining bougainvilleas use their sharp thorns to gain a hold and then develop a framework of strong stems. Their genus was named in honor of the sixteenth-century explorer and scientist, Louis Antoine de Bougainvilleas, who made the first french  voyage around the world.

Cultivation

All species do well in warm to hot climates in full sun and some species will tolerate light  frosts. Although drought tolerant, they need plenty  of moisture  during the flowering season. overfeeding will produce masses of foliage but very little in the way of colorful bracts. Most  cultivators can be propagated from cuttings.

Top Tip

Be sure to wear  protective gloves when pruning  or handling BOUGAINVILLEA as their thorns are dangerously sharp.