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. 

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