I've used nothing but store-bought for years - I use a 'germinating' soil-less mix to start with, and then I move to a 360 mix for transplants. I've had fairly good success... :)

What do you use for your own 'mix'?

I have used Fafard super fine germination mix. I love that stuff. Fine no bark or sticks and the best thing IT IS NOT HYDROPHOBIC! You can wet it easily.

I normally use a mix of peat moss and perlite. I usually have pretty good luck but it does seem to dry out quickly. I'm trying Promix this year.

I've never heard of Fafard. Where do you get it? Online? I've never seen it locally where I live.

I just sowed my begonia seeds last week. I hope I'm not too late.