Begonias

redser7

I have a lot of Begonias that I sowed back around January. They are in flower already but in the last week they have started to get very leggy. I know the reason - they are in a tray of cells and competing for light. But it's too early to put plant them out.
Can you cut begonias back? Can I cut the main stem?
Thanks a lot for any advise. Been tending them for too long now to let them go.

redser7

Anyone?

Sgt Pepper 64

Google is your friend!

The answer seems to be yes, but not too hard

http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/begonia/msg0314492521030.html

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Container-Gardens-714/cutting-annuals.htm

http://gardenersnet.com/flower/begonia.htm

Thats the thing with annuals though, getting the timing right.
Start them too early and you have problems
Start them too late and you have problems!
I still have tiny seedlings of Lobelia and Petunias, that I probably started too late

redser7

Thanks Sgt Pepper. I did google but only found info on tuberous types. You hit the nail on the head there. Chop chop it is so.
Annuals - tell me about it. My first year trying from seed. Started many types under lights and totally under-estimated how well they work. So I've inadvertantly forced them and have had begonias, lobelia, salvias, pansies, marigolds, pelargoniums all in flower for ages now. Been some juggling act trying to keep them happy. Just 2 more weeks or so and out they go! Such a learning experience. But next year will be different!
Thanks