How to Grow Bougainvillea

Cheerful, generous with the many flowers of different colors that it gives us, easy to grow. bougainvillea is a climbing plant really special, with a clear marine imprint: it cannot live at temperatures below five degrees and we see it very often, with its majesty (it can grow up to 12 metres, if cultivated on land) on terraces of Mediterranean houses. You too may have happened to walk through the streets of your city and, suddenly, be fascinated by the extraordinary beauty of the bougainvillea. Wonderful and brightly colored, Bougainvillea is a climbing plant native to South America belonging to the Nyctaginaceae family., of which there are as many as 300 different varieties. A plant capable of decorating gardens, balconies, and terraces, creating a special atmosphere reminiscent of Mediterranean landscapes and seaside holidays.

Index of topics

Cultivation

Simple to grow, the bougainvillea It is a vigorous plant capable of developing quite rapidly producing a cascade of branches, leaves e Colorful flowersDon't forget, however, that bougainvillea loves the sun and that it's essential to grow it in a very sunny area to ensure optimal flowering. Shade prevents the plant from producing its characteristic colorful flowers. Also remember that it's a plant that fears the cold, especially possible winter frosts. In particularly cold areas, it's therefore necessary to grow it in a pot so that the plant can be covered in case of intense cold. Growing bougainvillea requires two things. The first: it is a plant that loves mild temperatures (in Italy, these are found in the southern regions) and cannot tolerate the cold very well. Secondly, bougainvillea it can be grown directly in the ground, or in a vase. But let's see together, step by step, How to grow bougainvillea in the garden and in pots.

When to grow bougainvillea

The ideal time is spring. Bougainvillea can also be propagated by cuttingSimply remove a branch about 8-10 centimeters long from the plant and plant it in the ground. Roots typically appear within three weeks. Plant development is significantly affected by different climates: in warmer areas, flowering will be more abundant.

Land

In the case of growing bougainvillea in a pot, the soil must be composed of a mixture of soil and peatAdd pebbles and compost to this mix, along with a bed of gravel and shards. This is to prevent waterlogging, which bougainvillea dislikes.

Watering

Water bougainvillea only when the soil is completely dry: it is a drought-tolerant plant, although periodic watering is essential, especially in hot summers. During the colder months, however, water the soil only sporadically when it is completely dry, and increase the amount of water starting from the time the plant begins to grow again.

Fertilization

Choose a natural fertilizer that promotes plant growth and flowering. A liquid fertilizer, diluted in watering water, is also excellent.

Pruning

La pruning Pruning should be done during the month of February, removing all dead branches. In particularly cold areas, pruning can be done early, even in late autumn, so that the bougainvillea can be carefully protected in case of intense cold. Remember that pruning should still be done after each flowering period to allow the plant to regenerate.

Parasites and diseases

Bougainvillea is a very resistant plant and, generally, is not excessively affected by insects or fungal diseases even if, at times, it can be attacked by aphids.

How do you stimulate bougainvillea to bloom?

To stimulate the flowering of bougainvillea, without having an excessive and counterproductive rush, you need to focus on a fertilization Very frequently, weekly. Use natural products that provide the plant with zinc, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. Furthermore, we must never forget that bougainvillea is a climbing plant: the flowers grow best if the branches are supported solidly and effectively.