What is the reason why bougainvillea does not bloom?

Bougainvillea is favored by gardening enthusiasts for its rich variety of flowers and long flowering period. Many flower lovers have planted multiple varieties of bougainvillea in their homes. If properly maintained, most varieties of bougainvillea can bloom all year round. However, some flower lovers have found that their bougainvillea does not bloom as frequently as expected. So what is the reason why bougainvillea does not bloom?

1. Improper pruning

Failure to prune for a long time will cause the branches of Bougainvillea to become too long and messy, affecting the effective distribution of nutrients. Reasonable pruning can promote the growth of new shoots and the differentiation of flower buds. After flowering, carry out strong pruning, keep short branches, remove thin and weak branches and bottom buds, reduce nutrient consumption and promote flower bud formation.

2. Insufficient light

Bougainvillea needs sufficient light to promote flower bud differentiation. Even if placed under the sun, if the light time is less than six hours, it will be difficult to meet its flowering needs. Make sure your bougainvillea receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight each day.

3. Improper selection of flower pots and soil

Using a pot that is too large and soil with poor air permeability will affect the flowering of Bougainvillea. Small flower pots and well-breathed soil help the soil dry quickly, which is suitable for the growth of bougainvillea. Choose a pot that is appropriately sized for the plant's crown and make sure the soil is well-drained.

4. Improper watering management

Too much water will cause excessive vegetative growth of Bougainvillea and inhibit the differentiation of flower buds. The reasonable watering method is to wait until the soil in the pot is completely dry before watering thoroughly, and water when the leaves are slightly drooping to promote the formation of flower buds.

5. Improper use of fertilizers

Indiscriminate use of fertilizers, especially excessive nitrogen fertilizers, will cause the bougainvillea to only grow leaves but not flowers. High-phosphorus fertilizers should be used to promote flower bud differentiation. Even during flowering, appropriate amounts of fertilizers should continue to be applied. At the same time, multi-element slow-release fertilizers can be sprinkled on the surface of the potting soil to ensure adequate nutrients.

In short, the maintenance of bougainvillea is not complicated, but it requires more attention and proper management to make it bloom frequently. Avoiding the above five taboos, reasonable pruning, ensuring sufficient light, choosing suitable flower pots and soil, reasonable watering and correct use of fertilizers will all help bougainvillea bloom.