'Golden Balcony' is a tuberous begonia known for its large, showy flowers that begin blooming in early summer. These frilly double flowers, clustered on thick, succulent stems with wide, glossy leaves, display a mix of orange and yellow shades. Often grown as an annual, this tender perennial (Zones 9-10) reaches about 6 to 8 inches in height and has a cascading habit, making it perfect for containers, window boxes, and hanging baskets.
'Golden Balcony' is a Begonia boliviensis species, commonly called begonia, native to Bolivia and Peru. While begonias need warm temperatures to grow, they don't do well in the hot, dry conditions of the desert Southwest or the extreme heat of the Deep South.
'Golden Balcony' grows best in a partially shady spot. It can handle heavier shade and still bloom; however, the best flowering happens with some sun, preferably morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates. Tuberous begonias prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5) rich in organic matter and kept evenly moist. Tubers can rot in soggy soil, so it's important that the soil drains quickly and well. Remove flowers and leaves as they fade to encourage more blooms. 'Golden Balcony' begonia is also deer resistant.
Plant 'Golden Balcony' begonia bulbs in groups in warmed spring soil after all threat of frost has passed, spacing them 6 to 8 inches apart and 1 to 2 inches deep with the concave side up. In northern areas, start tubers indoors from late winter to early spring, planting one tuber per 7- to 10-inch pot, and move them outdoors once the weather allows.
