I have a begonia tuber that has grown and grown in past years, it now measures about 10 inches across, with lots of new growth appearing. It produces a mass of flowers every year.
My question is - can I halve the tuber without damaging it?
10 inches across, wow! That's a big one, maryn. I always cut my tubers when they get large enough, provided there are growing points for both pieces, then dust with flowers of sulphur and grow them on as normal. But I do make sure the cut surface does not get wet until it is well healed, by tilting it clear of the compost and watering from the base only - I start my begonias off in small 3" plastic pots.
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Not a plant I grow, but I've found this thread from last year - I hope it helps http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/plants/begonia-corms/238659.html
Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.
As I remember you can, yes. It was recommended to dust the cuts with sulphur powder to reduce the chance of infection.
We have done that in the past, wait until the shoot are a couple of inches and keep about 3 shoots to each piece.
you can buy a small tub of flowers of sulphur on ebay for 3.45 post free.
Brilliant .. thank you both - much appreciated!
10 inches across, wow! That's a big one, maryn. I always cut my tubers when they get large enough, provided there are growing points for both pieces, then dust with flowers of sulphur and grow them on as normal. But I do make sure the cut surface does not get wet until it is well healed, by tilting it clear of the compost and watering from the base only - I start my begonias off in small 3" plastic pots.
Many thanks Oneofseven.. Will do it today!