How to grow and prune bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a popular ornamental plant known for its beautiful flowers and variety of colors. In order to ensure that it can bloom normally, or even achieve the effect of blooming to the point of bursting the pot, reasonable pruning and maintenance are key. Let’s learn about the cultivation and pruning methods of Bougainvillea.

1. Pruning

When to prune: The best time to prune bougainvillea is after the flowers fade. Timely pruning helps promote the growth of new shoots and re-flowering.

Pruning method: Cut off weak branches and branches growing from the bottom to reduce unnecessary consumption of nutrients. For branches that are too long, shorten them appropriately and retain the thick branches, which will help the plant maintain a healthy growth trend.

Management after pruning: After pruning, water and fertilize properly to ensure that the plants can obtain sufficient nutrients and promote the growth of new shoots.

2. Maintenance

1. Lighting

Bougainvillea needs plenty of light, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate light is key to promoting flowering.

2. Watering

Watering should be adjusted according to the season and the growth conditions of the plants. During the growth period, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; after pruning after flowering, control water appropriately to promote plant recovery.

3. Fertilization

Regular application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, such as monopotassium phosphate, can help promote flowering. The frequency of fertilization can be 2-3 times a month.

4. Water control

After pruning after flowering, control water appropriately and let the plant recover after watering in the evening. Continuing to control water for about a month will help promote the formation of flower buds.

5. Flowerpot selection

Choose pots with good ventilation and avoid using pots that are too large to reduce the risk of water evaporation and root rot.

6. Soil

Use loose, well-drained soil to encourage healthy root growth.

The above is an introduction to the pruning methods and maintenance points of Bougainvillea. If Bougainvillea only grows branches but does not bloom, in addition to strong pruning and supplementing with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, it should also be placed in a place with the most abundant light and control water appropriately. When flower buds appear, stop controlling water, keep the soil moist, and continue to apply potassium dihydrogen phosphate to ensure that the plant can fully bloom. Through these meticulous care and pruning methods, bougainvillea can grow healthily and bloom beautiful flowers.