How to Make Bougainvilleas Bloom

Signature plants of the tropics, bougainvilleas (Bougainvillea spp.) are native to Brazil but are grown in warm climates throughout the world. These vigorous, woody vines are natural climbers and can reach 40 feet. They can also be trained into tree form or allowed to trail over the edges of window boxes or hanging baskets. Bougainvilleas are hardy outdoors only in USDA Plant Hardiness zones 9b through 11. In cooler climates, bring the plants indoors before the first frost. These pest-free plants require full sun and high temperatures to bloom well.

pH meter or test kit
Peat moss or agricultural sulfur (optional)
Fertilizer
Pruners
Grow lights (optional)
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  
  Bougainvillea blooms best in full sun.
  
  Plant bougainvilleas in full sun only, in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.0. If necessary, add peat moss or agricultural sulfur to the soil to lower the pH. Your garden center or extension service can advise you on the proper amendments, which will vary, depending on your soil structure and climate. Shade inhibits flower production. They also need heat for good flowering, blooming best in locations with day temperatures between 75 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2
  Protect bougainvilleas from high winds by moving baskets or planters to a sheltered position. Heavy storm winds can whip the woody vines around, rubbing off the bark, plus the sharp spines can damage the stems. The vines are slow to recover from such storm damage and will not flower until they recover.
- 3
  Allow bougainvillea to dry out between waterings, but not to the point of wilting. These plants flower best when occasionally drought-stressed.
- 4
  Feed bougainvilleas grown in pots twice a year with a fertilizer intended for flowering plants. Do this in the spring when you see new growth and again in midsummer. In climates where the plants are grown outdoors and bloom year-round, feed bougainvillea regularly all year with a fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ratio of 1-1-1 or 2-1-2. The ratio is marked on the fertilizer package. Follow package directions carefully.
- 5
  Prune out old, woody stems occasionally to promote new growth and to allow sunshine to reach the interior of the plant. Newer stems bloom more profusely than older ones and are less susceptible to disease. Always prune away broken stems.

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