Begonia Tubers

[Matheous]

If I slice the tubers through will I get two decent worthwhile plants? And should I wait for new growth to appear before executing such a task? Any help appreciated.....Thank you.

[Whoever]

I've never sliced such tubers in two before. I think there's probably a risk of infection and rot setting in, especially if they're planted in very moist soil. I know some plants can be sliced up and separated but I think this is where they generate new growth via separate little bulbs, rather than slicing the main bulb.

[Hawkwalk]

No, you can not propagate begonias from cutting the tuber in two. The best method is to take cuttings from the plant when it has grown. It is sometimes possible to divide an older tuber but there is a high risk of rot and disease so not an advisable method.

[Matheous]

Sorry for such a late response......I have already sliced just two very large tubers and sterilised my knife between cuts.
The person who very kindly gifted these to me, assured me she does so every season and only loses one or two. I know the generally accepted and probably safer method is to propagate cuttings from new growth but I will be happy getting just one new plant.......Thank you for your advice.