Bougainvillea is one of the most beloved and admired plants, as, with proper care, it can provide a unique display and beautify terraces and balconies for many months of the year.
This wonderful plant, native to South America, grows best when cultivated in a clay, terracotta, or ceramic pot with a diameter of at least 30 centimeters. Use potting soil with 80% fertilizer and 20% sand to ensure good drainage.
When cultivating bougainvilleas, avoid compacting the soil too much, as this reduces air flow (making it less porous) and increases water retention, which can harm the plant.
Water the bougainvillea well after planting or transplanting. If your area is very humid or rainy, increase the amount of sand in the potting soil to ensure adequate drainage. Bougainvilleas need the potting soil to dry out between waterings.
Watering: Water bougainvilleas thoroughly to allow excess water to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that moisture reaches the roots.
Allow the potting soil to dry out before watering again. Typically, water once a week during warm months and every 2-3 weeks during fall and winter.
Pruning: Bougainvillea is a climbing plant that needs support until it reaches a certain height, after which it can grow taller without bending.
Prune in early spring to keep bougainvilleas “compact” if grown in pots. This will encourage the formation of new flowers.
Blooming: For a more abundant bloom, plant the bougainvillea in a pot that slightly restricts root growth, in full sunlight, and avoid overwatering. Bougainvilleas bloom best when their roots are well-established and confined in the pot.