Well it's the third week of March already and the new season is showing its face. Looks like I shall have my usual early start, as most of my mature tubers are away and pipping nicely. Thought I would send you an early update, it may be some newer members of our Society will take heart at the sight of the growth already evident on the hot-bed. What a lovely sight that promises so much for another chapter in the cycle of growing begonias.  I never fail to be intrigued by the first showings of life after a Winter of dormancy, - hot water treatment all done, as is the baptism of Domestos.
   Tubers are into appropriate size pots of Leavingtons F2 starting compost with added grit, mixed with 25% vermiculate (or Perlite). When fully rooted I shall move them on to larger pots with Leavingtons M3 ,plus vermiculite, I will give them a drench of Provado to keep the vine weevil in check.
    I have (inevitably) some ( new to me)  varieties, including a nice" Geoff Bizley", (thank you Brian) and an oldie from Blackmore and Langdon,s "Elaine Tartellin", which John Smith found for me (thanks John).I have been in communication with some new members, Lorraine Rudd and Bill Gaskell both from Wales, and was able to supply a few tubers, as was I able to help Jim Mihulka, who has had a few problems.
    All of which leads me to the suggestion of the possible inclusion in the bulletin of a list of growers within the Society of people wishing to exchange tubers, say, in the dormant time of the year.  Little or no money need change hands, just a simple swap, say half a dozen of member "A"s surplus varieties swapped with half a dozen from member "B".  I feel new friendships could be formed, one's stock could be enhanced with the addition of different varieties, much to gain and food for thought. Just a list of willing participants with a contact number could be a possibility.??