principal points
Bougainvilleas , with their vivacious hue and cascading blooms , are acaptivating additionto any UK garden . However , care for these tropic beaut necessitate specific attention to their unique pauperism . This comprehensive scout will supply you with all theessential knowledgeand tips on how to look after abougainvillea plantin the UK , ensure its expand growth and abundant blooms .
Siting and Shelter
Bougainvilleas thrive in warm , cheery locations with ample sun . Choose a south- or Rebecca West - facing position in your garden that have at least 6 hours ofdirect sunlightper day . Protect your plant life from strong winds by planting it near a bulwark or hedgerow .
Soil and Drainage
bougainvillea choose well - drained soil that isslightly acidicto neutral ( pH 6.0 - 7.0 ) . Amend labored clay soils with plenty of organic thing , such as compost or manure , to improve drainage . arouse beds or container can also furnish excellent drainage condition .
Watering
Water yourbougainvillea plant regularly , especially during spicy , teetotal weather . earmark the top 2 - 3 inch of dirt to dry out out before watering again . keep off overwatering , as waterlogged soil can chair to root rot .
Feeding
inseminate yourbougainvillea plantonce a calendar month during the growing time of year ( April to September ) with a balanced liquid fertilizer . take a fertilizer with aslightly high phosphorus content(e.g . , 10 - 52 - 10 ) topromote flowering . stave off over - fertilizing , as this can damage the plant .
Pruning
even pruning is essential to keep the anatomy andencourage floweringin bougainvillea . Prune your plant in spring or former summertime , once the danger of frost has croak . absent any dead or discredited stems , and reduce back long or unruly outgrowth . Pinch back the tips of new shoot topromote bushier growthand more heyday .
Overwintering
Bougainvilleas are not frost - sturdy andrequire protectionduring thewinter month . If you inhabit in amild sphere , you may be able-bodied to overwinter your plant alfresco by wrapping it in fleece or horticultural house of cards wrap . In cold area , it is secure to winter your bougainvillea indoors in a bright , Robert Lee Frost - gratis elbow room .
Pests and Diseases
Bougainvilleas aregenerally resistantto pests and diseases , but they can from time to time be affected by aphids , mealybugs , orspider mites . Treat infestations promptly with an appropriate pesticide . Overwatering can lead to ascendent rot , so see your plant has well - drained soil and avoid overwatering .
The Bottom Line: Nurturing Your Bougainvillea to Perfection
care for abougainvillea plantin the UK requires attention to its specific indigence , include right siting , dirt , watering , feeding , pruning , and overwintering . By pursue these guidelines , you could create theideal conditionsfor your bougainvillea to thrive and showcase itsstunning bloomsthroughout the summertime months .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : My bougainvillea is not flowering . What could be the reason?A : deficiency of sunlight , deficient feeding , orimproper pruningcan all contribute to a deficiency of flowering . Ensure your works receives plenty of sunshine , feed regularly , and prune correctly to encourage prime . Q : Can I produce a bougainvillea in a pot?A : Yes , bougainvillea can be grown in container . Use a well - draining potting mix andprovide ample sunlight . urine andfertilize regularly , and repot your flora as needed when it outgrows its current container . Q : How often should I repot my bougainvillea?A : Repot your bougainvillea every 2 - 3 years , or when it becomes pot - bound . prefer aslightly large potwith fresh , well - drain land .
