Too much nitrogen leads to leafy plants with few blooms. Bougainvillea performs best with a balanced fertilizer that’s higher in phosphorus to promote flowering. Look for an NPK ratio like 10-20-10 or similar.
Feed the plant every 4 to 6 weeks during the active growing season (spring through fall). In tropical regions where bougainvillea grows year-round, feeding can continue monthly throughout the year. Always follow label instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can burn roots or result in leggy growth.
6. Control Root Growth for More Flowers
Bougainvillea prefers to be slightly root-bound. If you’re growing it in a pot, don’t rush to repot every year. Keeping it in a tight container slightly restricts root growth and encourages blooming over leaf production.
For in-ground plants, root pruning or confining roots using a container insert can have a similar effect.
7. Mimic Seasonal Dry Periods
In its native habitat, bougainvillea experiences dry and wet seasons. Mimicking this cycle can promote blooming. You can do this by slightly reducing water for a few weeks, then resuming regular watering and feeding. This mini “drought” often shocks the plant into producing flowers.
This technique is especially helpful if your plant has gone green and hasn’t flowered in a while.
8. Temperature and Climate Tips
Bougainvillea thrives in warm, frost-free climates, ideally in USDA zones 9–11. If you live in a colder region, you can grow it in containers and bring it indoors for the winter. Keep it near a bright window and reduce watering until spring.
In winter, it may lose some leaves but will bounce back once temperatures warm up and it receives more light and feeding.
Final Thoughts
Keeping bougainvillea blooming year-round is all about balance—plenty of sunlight, just enough stress, correct pruning, and controlled feeding. This low-maintenance yet show-stopping plant rewards consistent care with brilliant bursts of color that can brighten up your space in every season.
With these strategies, you can enjoy the vibrant hues of bougainvillea not just in summer, but throughout the year.
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