Begonias are loved all over the world—from the shaded porches of Canada to sunny gardens in the USA—for their vibrant blooms and lush foliage. But if you’ve ever owned one, you know their biggest demand: proper watering. Too little water, and the leaves droop. Too much, and root rot sets in.
So, how often should you water begonias? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on whether they’re indoors, outdoors, newly planted, or in containers. In this guide, we’ll break down watering rules, tips, and even my own mistakes (so you don’t repeat them!).
1. General Rule of Thumb
A simple rule every gardener should follow: water your begonias when the soil’s surface has dried to the touch, or once every four days.
Begonias like evenly moist soil, but they don’t appreciate soggy roots. If you stick your finger into the soil and the top inch (2.5 cm) feels dry, that’s your cue.
2. Indoor Begonias
Indoor begonias don’t dry out as fast as outdoor ones. According to most care guides, a potted Begonia needs 0.8 cups of water every 9 days. This small amount keeps the soil lightly moist without drowning the roots.
I’ve personally tested this schedule, and it works wonders during Canadian winters when indoor air is dry. I simply set a reminder every 9 days and my begonias thrived.
3. Outdoor Begonias
Outdoors, watering frequency changes with the weather. In hot summers, begonias can be watered very regularly, even daily. During mild, shaded conditions, every 3–4 days is usually enough.
If you’ve just transplanted them, it’s crucial to water newly planted begonias every few days during dry conditions to help them establish strong roots.
Also Read: Geranium Watering Secrets: Keep Them Blooming All Season Long
4. Container vs. Ground Begonias
Begonias in containers dry out quicker than those planted in the ground. Pots, especially clay ones, allow faster evaporation. That means you’ll likely water potted begonias every 2–3 days in summer.
In contrast, ground-planted begonias enjoy deeper soil moisture and may only need watering once every 4–5 days, depending on rainfall.
5. Seasonal Adjustments
Watering needs aren’t the same year-round:
- Spring & Summer: Frequent watering, especially outdoors.
- Fall: Reduce slightly as temperatures cool.
- Winter (indoor begonias): Stick to light watering, about 8 cups every 9 days, as growth slows.
Begonia Watering Guide
Begonia Type |
Watering Frequency |
Indoor Potted Begonias |
0.8 cups every 9 days |
Outdoor Begonias (summer) |
Every 2–4 days, even daily in heat |
Newly Planted Begonias |
Every few days during dry conditions |
General Rule |
Water when top 1 inch of soil is dry |
6. Signs You’re Overwatering or Underwatering
- Overwatering: Yellow leaves, soggy soil, root rot smell.
- Underwatering: Wilting leaves, crispy edges, soil pulling away from pot sides.
I once lost a gorgeous red begonia because I watered it “on schedule” instead of checking the soil. Now, I only water when the soil tells me to.
Also Read: Dandelion Roots: The Hidden Treasure Beneath Your Garden
7. Expert Tip: Timing Matters
Always water in the morning. This gives your begonias enough time to absorb moisture before the midday sun evaporates it. Evening watering can sometimes encourage fungal diseases if leaves stay wet overnight.
So, how often should you water begonias? The safe answer is: water your Begonias when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil feels dry. Indoor begonias do well with 0.8 cups of water every 9 days, while outdoor ones may need watering every 2–4 days, sometimes daily in the summer heat. Don’t forget that water newly planted begonias every few days during dry conditions to help them settle.
With the right balance, you’ll enjoy healthy, blooming begonias that light up your home or garden year after year.
