A Bougainvillea Plant's Care

Bougainvillea is a widely grown tropical vine.

Bougainvillea is an evergreen or semi-evergreen plant that blooms most of the year. It is grown as a shrub, a vine or a container plant.

Requirements

Bougainvillea requires full sun and prefers a rich, loamy, well-drained soil but adapts to most soils. It is winter hardy in United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11 and is grown in containers elsewhere.

Water

Although it tolerates brief periods of drought, bougainvillea needs watering during prolonged dry spells. If flowering stops, withhold water to encourage more blossoms.

Fertilization

Bougainvillea needs light feedings three times a year. It responds well to half-strength, water-soluble fertilizers.

Pruning

Maintain bougainvillea as a shrub by pruning as needed to keep it at the desired height. Prune the plant any time of year.

Containers

Choose a 5- to 10-gallon clay container and a potting soil that drains freely. Clay allows water to evaporate quickly, keeping the soil dry. Bring the plant indoors and let it rest during the winter, withholding water and fertilizer.

Repotting

Carefully remove the plant from the pot and slice off the outer 1 to 2 inches of the root ball. Repot in the same size container. Bougainvillea likes to be root bound.

References

• Floridata: Bougainvillea
• Agrilife Extension: Bougainvillea

Resources

• United States Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map