But how much do we love Bougainvillea ?
During the summer we see it brighten up with its cascades of colorful flowers, its walls and hedges and the desire to have it at home becomes irresistible.
Growing it is not difficult, as long as the climate is taken into account : being a plant of tropical origin, it needs suitable temperatures.
Here are some growing and pruning tips .
Bounganville: growing tips
Many types of bougainvillea are climbing and suitable for growing in the ground, while others, including the Buttian variety, are suitable for growing in pots.
Just preparing the pot or container that will hold the plant is the basis for getting off to a good start.
Bougainvillea fears stagnation: to avoid this, place a layer of expanded clay or gravel or shards on the bottom, which will facilitate the flow of water.
Then fill with fresh, soft, aerated soil.
The easiest way to propagate bougainvillea is by cuttings: you cut a sprig about ten centimeters long from an adult specimen and insert it directly into the soil.
Alternatively, you can put it in a pot filled with sand and peat.
You can also use seeds or already grown transplants, as long as this happens in spring, when climatic conditions are ideal for this type of plant.
Bougainvillea is a fairly hardy plant and is not easy prey for diseases, but aphids and mealybugs are always lurking.
Bounganville: size
Bougainvillea tends to grow and develop quickly, so occasional pruning is essential.
Proceed as follows:
- To fit shrubs into pots, trim the tips
- For climbers, it is necessary to remove about a third of the weakest and/or irregular branches. Use the shears with the blades held slightly at an angle to the branch.
With these few simple precautions, the plant will grow healthily and vigorously and remain intact for a long time.
