Bougainvillea pruning methods and techniques

Bougainvillea is deeply loved by flower lovers for its colorful flowers and various varieties. Not only are their flowers beautiful, but the spectacular sight when they bloom is even more amazing. In the process of caring for bougainvillea, proper pruning is the key, which not only ensures the healthy growth of the plant, but also promotes the prosperity of flowers. Below we will learn about the methods and techniques of pruning bougainvillea.

1. Pruning techniques

Many people will directly cut off the pair of leaves under the flower when pruning bougainvillea, but this method is not advisable. Because most bougainvilleas are grown in pots , soil and nutrients are limited. If you only trim the top after flowering, there will be many remaining branches, including thin branches and longer branches. Even if flowers bloom, they will only bloom sparsely from the top, affecting the overall beauty of the plant.

The correct pruning method is to keep two to four leaves from the last pruning position and then cut off the thick branches. Also, remove any weak branches, inner crossing branches, and bottom buds. After pruning, the plant will be left with only short, sturdy branches, each with four to six leaves, which will encourage the growth of at least two to four new branches.

These new branches will bloom soon, and not only will the number of flower branches not decrease, but the amount of flowers will remain the same or even increase. The buds on thick branches grow neatly and bloom more uniformly.

2. Flower promotion strategy

Since bougainvillea consumes a lot of nutrients after flowering in the early stage, there may be a lack of nitrogen in the soil. After pruning, use general fertilizer , such as Huaduoduo No. 1 or general nutrient solution, to water at a concentration of 1:1000 to supplement nitrogen and promote rapid germination of new buds. After that, add high-phosphorus fertilizer, such as Huaduoduo No. 2, every seven to ten days for about ten days.

The amount of watering should be reduced appropriately, and water thoroughly again after the soil in the pot is completely dry. Usually water when the leaves are slightly limp. Place the flower pot in a well-ventilated and well-lit place. During the long days in summer, just ensure at least eight hours of light. Prune and water according to the above method, and new shoots will grow within 30 days.

When the new shoots grow to two or three centimeters, a flower bud will appear on the top. Once the buds form, they will continue to bloom for a month or two. But be careful, when the new buds have small bumps, i.e. flower buds, do not control the water and let them wilt. Keep the potting soil half dry and water it in time. Continue using fertilizer until the flowers have fully bloomed and faded.

In general, Bougainvillea is relatively easy to care for. As long as you prune according to the above methods and use flower-promoting strategies, you can quickly promote the formation of flower buds. Even after one flowering cycle ends, using these methods again will allow the bougainvillea to continue blooming into winter.