LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Allen County gardeners learned more about one of the world's oldest and most popular flowering plants during this week's Brown Bag gardening series.
The program focused on begonias, a plant that dates back more than 2,000 years and was first documented in 14th-century China. More than a dozen of the roughly 2,000 known varieties were on display, giving attendees an up-close look at the colorful and versatile plants.
Begonias are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa and Asia and became popular in the United States during the 1930s.
Allen County Master Gardener Sandy Bindel said begonias are a favorite among gardeners because they are relatively low maintenance.
“Begonias are one of the easiest plants to grow. That's why I like them. They don't take a whole lot of water. They don't take a whole lot of fertilizer and they don't have a lot of pests,” Bindel said.
Most begonias thrive in shade or partial shade, although some varieties can tolerate full sun.
Next week's Brown Bag program will focus on how gardeners can help protect the environment. The presentation begins at 12:15 p.m. at the gazebo in the Children's Garden, and attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch.
