​​The secret to successful begonia growth lies in choosing the ideal location in your garden, where the specific needs of this sensitive plant can be met.

Although there are more than 10,000 varieties of begonias, they are segregated into three groups based on root systems — tuberous-rooted, fibrous-rooted, and rhizomatous.

Tuberous-rooted are sensitive to direct sunlight and excessive heat, require brightly lit but shaded areas, and shouldn't be exposed to more than four hours of direct sunlight.

Fibrous begonias, usually grown annually, thrive in hanging baskets or containers, blooming from spring to fall. They require only partial sunlight and prefer cooler climates.

They can tolerate more sunshine than other begonia types. To extend their lifespan beyond the first frost, they can be moved indoors until warmer weather returns.

Rhizomatous begonias grow best in indirect sunlight and slightly shaded areas. However, they are not necessarily hindered by the bright morning sun.

To ensure your begonias prosper, consider planting them on the north and east sides of your yard or in shaded locations that allow them to remain moist — but not too wet.