Plant the thick tubers of Begonia Bertinii Boliviensis 'Tanais' in fresh potting compost during the spring. Use a pot or planter with holes in the base to aid drainage. Cover the bottom with a layer of potsherds or hydrograins. Fill the pot with potting compost leaving sufficient space for the tubers, plant them about 20-30 cm apart and cover with 1-2 cm of compost. Water well after planting. Beware of any night frosts. Hanging Begonias grow and bloom well in partial shade.

Begonia Bertinii Boliviensis 'Tanais' makes a great combination plant

Begonia Bertinii Boliviensis 'Tanais' is a robust plant that needs quite a bit of space. However, in a large hanging basket or a large pot, you can plan your own creation. Choose varieties that complement one another and form an attractive contrast, both with regard to flower colour and leaf shape. However a good choice is hanging fuchsias and the English ivy.

Frequently remove the faded flowers of the Begonia Bertinii Boliviensis 'Tanais'. For an extra rich flowering, when the plant is established it is often advisable to regularly provide a liquid feed. Protect from direct, bright sunlight. The compost around the tubers should not be too wet as this may cause the begonia tubers to rot. The stems and leaves contain high amounts of moisture, therefore they are not frost tolerant.

Begonia Bertinii Boliviensis 'Tanais' can be preserved throughout the winter

Begonia tubers are easy to preserve during the winter. After the first night frost and when the begonia foliage begins to yellow, lift the begonias and cut the stems back to just above the tuber. Attach a label with the name of the Begonias to remind yourself for the next year. Gently shake the compost from the tubers and place them in a box with compost and sharp sand. Keep the tubers in a dry, cool, frost-free place during the winter. Next spring, you can plant them once again and the plant will reward you with its beautiful flowers.

To achieve an early flowering of Begonia Bertinii Boliviensis 'Tanais' place them in a shallow seed tray with moist compost, keeping them between 15-20˚ C during February or March. Check that the concave side is facing upwards and just slightly covered with a layer of compost. When shoots begin to appear, pot the tubers in potting compost. By the beginning of May, they will get used to the outdoor temperature and you can plant them from mid-May onwards in either your garden or in a pot.