How Much Does a Begonia Pot Cost? A Complete Pricing Guide

Begonias are some of the most popular flowering plants prized for their dazzling array of colors intricate leaf patterns, and versatility. With the right care, they can bloom continuously indoors or out, bringing vibrant beauty into any space.

But before rushing out to buy your first begonia you’ll probably wonder – how much is a begonia pot going to set me back?

The price of a begonia pot can range quite a bit, from just a few dollars for a small starter plant to over $50 for a large, mature specimen. The total cost depends on several key factors:

Begonia Variety

With over 1,800 species and thousands more hybrids, begonias come in a spectacular range of varieties. Some of the most popular include:

• Rex begonias – Grown for their dramatic foliage, rex begonias typically cost $10-$30. Their intricate leaf patterns and colors make them pricier than other varieties.

• Tuberous begonias – Prized for their large, rose-like blooms, tuberous begonias are usually $15-$50. They require more care than wax or cane types.

• Wax begonias – Known for being hardy and low maintenance, wax begonias are very affordable, often just $5-$15. They’re great for beginners.

• Cane begonias – Cane types like angel wing begonias have elegant, bamboo-like stems. They fall in the mid-range around $10-$25.

• Trailing begonias – Perfect for hanging baskets, trailing types tend to cost $10-$30 depending on their maturity.

So as you can see, the variety makes a big difference in price. Stunning rex begonias will be more expensive than the extremely easy wax begonias.

Plant Size

In addition to variety, the size and maturity of the begonia plant factors into the cost. Usually, pricing breaks down like this:

• Small starter plants, 3-6 inches – $5-$15
• Medium juvenile plants, 6-12 inches – $10-$30
• Large mature plants, over 12 inches – $20-$50+

When just beginning, opt for a smaller plant that’s cheaper. Then you can nurture it as it grows over seasons to come. Mature begonias get quite pricey.

Where You Buy

Where you purchase your begonia also affects the price tag. Local nurseries and garden centers often offer competitive pricing since they buy plants in bulk. A begonia pot there will likely run you $10-$30 on average.

Meanwhile, online retailers give you more variety but may charge higher prices to account for shipping costs. Still, they often run sales or discounts, so you can sometimes score a great deal.

Buying in bulk from wholesale growers is an affordable option if you need many plants. Just ensure you inspect them thoroughly on arrival.

Container Cost

The pot or planter you choose will add to the total price as well. Basic plastic nursery pots often cost just $1-$5. Terra cotta pots run $5-$20 depending on size and style.

For a more decorative look, ceramic, metal, or wooden planters can be $20-$50 or even over $100 for premium artisan designs.

So if your budget is tight, choose an inexpensive plastic or terracotta pot for now. You can always repot your begonia into a fancier container later on.

Typical Cost Ranges

Taking all these factors into account, a begonia pot typically costs:

• Small wax begonia starter, 3-6 inches in a plastic pot – $5-$15
• Medium cane begonia, 6-12 inches in a terracotta pot – $15-$30
• Large mature rex begonia, over 12 inches in a ceramic planter – $30-$60+

For a high-end gift, an artisan pot with a huge stunning begonia could even be over $100. But for most home gardens, expect to invest $10-$40 for a begonia pot that fits your space and style.

Getting the Best Deals on Begonia Pots

If you’re hoping to save money on your begonia pot purchase, here are some tips:

• Shop at the end of season sales at local nurseries
• Watch for online coupons and discounts at retailers like Amazon or eBay
• Buy young starter plants and small plastic pots
• Check wholesalers like Costco for bulk pricing
• Split costs by ordering with gardening friends
• Look for divisions and cuttings from neighbors
• Attend plant swaps to trade starters and cuttings

With smart shopping, you can find gorgeous begonias for your garden without breaking the bank. Focus more on the joy your plants will bring rather than fretting over the price tag.

Key Factors Beyond Cost

While price is important, also consider the functionality of your begonia pot:

• Pick a pot that’s slightly larger than the current roots, allowing for growth.
• Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
• Select a lightweight pot if you’ll need to move the plant frequently.
• Match the pot style to your overall decor – indoor or outdoor.
• Complement bold leaf begonias with a plain, simple pot.

This will help you end up with a beautiful, thriving plant that fits perfectly in your space.

Caring for Your Begonia Pot

To get the most enjoyment out of your investment, be sure to care for your begonia properly. Here are some key tips:

• Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Don’t overdo it.
• Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced formula.
• Give bright, indirect light indoors or dappled shade outside.
• Prune back overgrown stems and pinching off spent blooms.
• Repot annually in fresh potting mix to refresh the roots.
• Inspect frequently for pests like spider mites or mealybugs.
• Bring potted begonias indoors before frost hits in fall.

With attentive care and perfect growing conditions, your begonia will thrive season after season, providing color and interest for years to come.

The Bottom Line

In the end, how much is a begonia pot comes down to your own budget and needs. With so many gorgeous options, you can certainly find one to fit both your space and wallet if you shop smart.

Aim for a healthy young plant in a basic plastic pot to start out. Then have fun watching your begonia grow and upgrading the container as you desire. Most importantly, take time to stop and savor those delightful blossoms whenever they appear!

Most begonias prefer bright, indirect sunlight or shade, though some varieties can tolerate full sun. Direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, can scorch their leaves.

In a 12-inch pot, you can generally plant 3-5 tuberous begonias or 2-3 wax begonias, depending on the desired fullness and variety. Tuberous begonias, known for larger blooms, need more space and should be spaced 4-6 inches apart.