Bougainvillea Care Guide 1. Light Full sun is essential. Bougainvilleas need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom profusely. Insufficient light results in poor flowering and leggy growth. 2. Watering Water deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering—bougainvilleas are drought-tolerant and prone to root rot if kept too wet. Reduce watering in cool or rainy seasons. 3. Soil & Potting Use well-draining soil (e.g., cactus/succulent mix or add perlite/sand to potting soil). Ensure pots have drainage holes. Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container. 4. Temperature & Climate Ideal temperature: 60°F–90°F (15°C–32°C). Frost-sensitive: Protect or bring indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C). In cool climates, grow in containers and move indoors during winter. 5. Fertilizing Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or one higher in phosphorus (e.g., 5-10-10) to promote blooming. Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer). Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which encourage leaves over flowers. 6. Pruning & Training Prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Wear gloves—bougainvillea thorns can be sharp. Regular light pruning maintains size and promotes more blooms. Can be trained as a climbing vine, shrub, or bonsai. 7. Pest & Disease Management Common pests: Aphids, caterpillars, spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal issues (e.g., leaf spot) may occur in humid conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid wetting leaves. Root rot from overwatering—ensure proper drainage. 8. Encouraging Blooms Stress can trigger flowering: Slightly restrict water (without wilting) and avoid over-fertilizing. Ensure ample sunlight and avoid heavy pruning during peak blooming seasons. 9. Winter Care (Cool Climates) Move potted plants indoors to a bright, sunny spot. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing until spring. Outdoor plants may die back in frost but often regrow in spring if roots are protected with mulch. 10. Propagation Propagate via semi-hardwood cuttings in spring/summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and place in well-draining soil. Keep warm and moist until rooted. Quick Tips for Success Sunshine is key—the more sun, the more flowers. Neglect over nurture: They thrive with a little stress (underwatering is better than overwatering). Prune strategically to maintain shape and boost blooms. Protect from cold—bougainvilleas are tropical plants at heart