How to Grow Begonia 'Tom Ment'
Begonia 'Tom Ment'
Begonia × tuberhybrida 'Tom Ment'
flowerBegonia 'Tom Ment' is a tuberous begonia cultivar prized for its large, showy double flowers in vibrant red or coral tones with ruffled petals. It's a tender perennial often grown as an annual in containers, hanging baskets, or shaded garden beds. This variety is known for its profuse blooming and dramatic, rose-like flowers that can reach 3-4 inches across.
When should you plant Begonia 'Tom Ment' in your zone?
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Example Begonia 'Tom Ment' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Begonia 'Tom Ment'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Begonia 'Tom Ment' blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives year-round in zones 10-11; grow as annual or container plant elsewhere and overwinter indoors
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Get my Begonia 'Tom Ment' timeline →Growth Stages
Tuber Dormancy & Awakening
2-4 weeksTubers stored over winter begin to sprout; small shoots and roots emerge from the concave top
Start tubers indoors in spring (February-March). Place in moist starter mix at 65-70°F. Ensure good air circulation to prevent rot. Do not bury tubers completely
Seedling/Transplant Growth
3-4 weeksYoung shoots grow 2-4 inches tall with small leaves. Root system develops and strengthens
Provide bright, indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture. Keep humidity around 50-60%. Begin light fertilizing every 2 weeks with diluted balanced fertilizer once shoots are 2 inches tall
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with heart-shaped, textured leaves. Stem and leaf growth accelerates; buds begin to form
Transplant outdoors or to larger containers after last frost. Pinch back growing tips if needed to encourage bushiness. Water regularly and fertilize every 2 weeks. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates
Flowering & Bloom Peak
8-12 weeks (summer through fall)Large, double ruffled flowers in red/coral tones emerge continuously. Multiple blooms per plant; flowers can be 3-4 inches diameter
Remove spent flowers (deadheading) to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain consistent watering and fertilization every 2 weeks. Support heavy flower heads with stakes if needed. Watch for pest and disease issues in humid conditions
Dormancy Preparation
Varies by climate; 4-6 weeks before full dormancyFlowering slows as temperatures cool. Foliage yellows and dies back naturally as plant prepares to rest
In zones 10-11, allow plant to rest by reducing water and fertilizer. In cooler zones, cut stems to 1 inch after first frost, dig tubers, dry thoroughly, and store in cool (50-60°F), dry location over winter. Do not store in freezing temperatures
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation, avoid wetting foliage. Apply sulfur dust or neem oil if severe. Remove affected leaves. Reduce humidity
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Ensure good air flow, reduce humidity, avoid overhead watering. Remove infected flowers and leaves immediately. Apply fungicide if needed
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Increase humidity with misting (away from flowers). Spray undersides of leaves with water or insecticidal soap. Use miticide if infestation is severe
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Remove affected flowers and leaves. Use yellow sticky traps. Apply spinosad or neem oil spray. Improve air circulation
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and
Remove by hand, especially at night. Use copper barriers or sluggo baits. Reduce moisture on soil surface
Uses
Edible flower garnish
CulinaryBegonia petals are edible with a mildly acidic, slightly citrusy flavor. They can be used as a colorful garnish on salads, desserts, or cocktails, though 'Tom Ment' is primarily grown as ornamental rather than specifically for culinary use. [source]
Container gardening & interior decoration
HouseholdThe striking double flowers make 'Tom Ment' ideal for container planting on patios, porches, and indoors in bright locations. The ruffled red blooms provide season-long color in shaded areas where many annuals fail. [source]
Cut flowers for arrangements
CraftLarge, rose-like double flowers are excellent for fresh flower arrangements, bouquets, and floral designs. The blooms have good vase life and make an elegant statement in mixed arrangements. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeDouble begonia flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects to shaded garden areas. While the heavy double form may limit nectar access compared to single varieties, the plant still contributes to pollinator habitat. [source]
Harvest Tips
Begonias are ornamental flowers, not harvested for food. Cut flowers for arrangements can last 5-7 days in a vase with fresh water changed daily. Pick flowers just as they fully open. For overwintering tubers, allow foliage to die back naturally after frost, then carefully dig tubers, brush off soil, and dry for 2-3 weeks in a cool, airy location before storing
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Begonia 'Tom Ment' belongs to the tuberous begonia group, which was originally developed through hybridization of wild begonia species from the Andes Mountains in South America. The large, dramatic double flowers are entirely human-created through selective breeding.
- 🌱 The name 'Tom Ment' is a playful horticultural reference; 'tom' may reference the breeder or cultivar lineage in European begonia breeding programs, where cultivars are often given creative or commemorative names.
- 🌱 Tuberous begonias like 'Tom Ment' go completely dormant in winter, with the entire above-ground plant dying back while the tuber survives underground. This makes them unique among tender perennials and allows gardeners to store and replant tubers year after year.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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