How to Grow Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia
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Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia
Begonia × tuberhybrida 'Nonstop'
flowerNonstop Mixed Colors is a vigorous tuberous begonia variety known for its prolific, continuous blooming throughout the growing season. It produces large, double flowers in a vibrant mix of red, pink, orange, yellow, and white colors on compact, bushy plants. These heat-tolerant begonias are ideal for containers, hanging baskets, and shaded garden beds.
When should you plant Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia in your zone?
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Example Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia
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 Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Nonstop Mixed Colors Begonia dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 3-10 as annual; perennial in zones 9-10
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Tuber/Transplant Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung plants developing root systems and initial shoots; small leaves emerging
Keep soil warm (60-70°F) and consistently moist; provide bright, indirect light; avoid fertilizing for first 2-3 weeks
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksRobust foliage development; compact bushy plant forming with many stems and dark green leaves
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; pinch terminal buds if needed for bushier shape; begin weekly balanced fertilizing
Budding & Early Flowering
2-3 weeksFlower buds appearing at leaf axils; first blooms opening in mixed colors
Continue regular fertilizing with bloom-promoting formula (higher phosphorus); maintain moist soil and moderate humidity
Peak Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostAbundant double flowers continuously blooming across entire plant in bright mixed colors; dense flower display
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms; maintain consistent watering and weekly fertilizing; monitor for pests
Late Season/Dormancy
Until frost or natural declineFlowering may slow as temperatures cool; foliage may fade; tuber begins storing energy for winter dormancy
Reduce watering as growth slows; stop fertilizing; in frost zones, dig tubers after first light frost, clean, and store in cool, dry place until spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur-based fungicide or neem oil at first sign of white coating on leaves
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Remove affected leaves immediately; improve air flow; reduce humidity; use fungicide if severe; avoid wetting foliage
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Increase humidity and mist leaves; spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for heavy infestations
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Use sticky traps to monitor; remove heavily infested leaves; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly if needed
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; isolate affected plant; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryBegonia flowers are mildly tart and can be used as edible garnishes in salads, desserts, and beverages, adding color and a subtle tangy flavor to dishes. [source]
Container & Basket Gardening
HouseholdNonstop Mixed Colors is exceptional for hanging baskets, window boxes, and container plantings, providing weeks of continuous color with minimal maintenance in shaded areas. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional Asian medicine, begonias have been used to treat minor wounds and skin irritations, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pressed Flowers & Dried Arrangements
CraftThe delicate, colorful double flowers press well and can be used in crafts, framed botanical art, and dried flower arrangements. [source]
Pollinator-Friendly Ornamental
WildlifeWhile not a major pollen source, begonia flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, contributing to garden biodiversity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
These are ornamental flowers; enjoy continuous blooms from summer through fall. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote more blooms. For tuber preservation in zones 3-8, dig tubers after the first light frost, let dry in shade for several days, remove foliage, and store in cool (50-60°F), dry location over winter. Replant tubers the following spring.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The Nonstop series was developed through extensive breeding to overcome the traditional issue of tuberous begonias dropping their flowers in hot, humid summer weather—this cultivar blooms reliably even in challenging conditions.
- 🌱 Begonias are named after Michel Bégon, a 17th-century French colonial administrator and plant enthusiast; there are over 2,000 begonia species worldwide.
- 🌱 The 'double' flowers in Nonstop Mixed Colors are actually a result of selective breeding that converts stamens into petals, creating the showy, rose-like blooms rather than the simple flowers of wild species.
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