Bougainvillea Bougainvillea × buttiana 'Miss Manila'

Water

Bougainvillea should be watered thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch; this typically means watering once every week or two, depending on climate conditions. When watering, use approximately 1 gallon of water for each watering session to ensure the roots receive enough moisture without becoming waterlogged. During the active growing season in spring and summer, watering frequency may need to increase due to quicker soil drying. In contrast, during the cooler months, water less often, as the plant's water requirements decrease. Always make sure the plant has good drainage to prevent root rot.

Light

Bougainvilleas thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to promote strong growth and vibrant blooms. A south-facing outdoor spot or a sunny window if grown indoors is ideal for Bougainvillea to receive adequate light. Avoid placing it in low-light conditions, as this can reduce flowering and lead to leggy, weak growth.

Temperature

Bougainvilleas prefer warm temperatures and do well in environments where the temperatures range from 60 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods, but frost can damage the plant. The ideal temperature range for robust growth and flowering is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Pruning Bougainvillea helps to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and promote more blooms. The best time to prune is after the plant has finished a flowering cycle, typically in late winter or early spring. Pruning can be done every few months to remove dead wood and control size; however, avoid over-pruning as it can reduce flowering. Light trimming can be done throughout the year to shape the plant and remove any unwanted or overgrown branches.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Bougainvillea requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.0. A mix of equal parts perlite, peat, and pine bark is ideal. This provides aeration, moisture retention, and drainage, crucial for Bougainvillea's health.

Repotting

Bougainvillea should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Younger plants may require more frequent repotting, while established plants can be repotted less often.

Humidity & Misting

Bougainvillea prefers moderate to low humidity levels, as too much humidity can lead to fungal issues. It thrives in typical household humidity conditions, making it quite adaptable.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright sunlight, keep slightly root-bound for better blooms.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, warm location, protect from frost and strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Bougainvillea × buttiana 'Miss Manila', commonly known as Bougainvillea, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in well-draining soil and warm conditions. Seedlings emerge and grow into young plants with characteristic thorny stems and heart-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, it produces vibrant, papery bracts in a range of colors that surround the small, white true flowers, with the most active growth and blooming occurring in the warm season. After pollination, the plant may produce small, inconspicuous fruits containing seeds, but propagation is more commonly achieved through cuttings. Bougainvillea requires a period of reduced water and cooler temperatures to encourage blooming, emulating a dry season. The life cycle can continue for many years, as Bougainvillea plants are perennial and can survive for decades with proper care.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Bougainvillea x buttiana 'Miss Manila', commonly known as Bougainvillea, is best propagated through stem cuttings. The most popular time to take cuttings for propagation is during the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and taken from semi-hardwood, which is mature wood that is not too old or too green. The leaves at the bottom half of the cutting should be removed and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone for better success. These cuttings are then planted in well-draining soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. It usually takes several weeks for roots to develop, during which time the cuttings should be kept in bright, indirect light. Once rooted, the plants can be transplanted to their final location where they can be nurtured to grow into the vibrant, colorful flowering shrubs that are characteristic of Bougainvillea.