Bougainvillea fact sheet

from David’s Exotic Plants

Watering

During the resting phase (winter) be careful not to let them get cold and/or damp.  Obviously, because they aren’t growing they won’t need much water, so only give them water during the growing periods when the compost is obviously getting dry or the leaves start to wilt. More bougainvilleas are killed by too much water than by too little.

Over-wintering in the UK.

Bougainvilleas are easy to over- winter in the UK, but they don’t like temperature change.  They are best kept in a conservatory or greenhouse during the winter months, so long as they are kept at 5°C or above, and not allowed to get too damp.

Summer months Bougainvilleas make a lovely display in the summer.  They should flower non-stop and grow new shoots profusely.  They can either go outside in a sheltered garden or can be kept in a greenhouse or conservatory provided they are given good ventilation.  They may need to be watered about twice a week, depending how hot it is.  Although they love sunlight they will not enjoy extreme heat.

Pests 

Pests aren’t very common on bougainvilleas, but still exist!  Red spider mite, greenfly and white fly are the main culprits.  They can either be washed off with soapy water or sprayed with an insecticide such as Naturen. 

Potting

Potting should be done once a year, preferably in the Spring.  The compost should have a pH of 6.5.  John Innes No 3 is good, with either grit or bark chippings to aid drainage. 

Similar factsheets on citrus trees, bauhinia, exotic plumeria, mango plants, acmena, exotic punica, pomegranate, exotic lychee trees, gloriosa and many more exotic plants which can be found via our Garden Index.