| i have a bouganville which is just over 1 year old. it bloomed up until just recently. do i cut off the ends that bloomed and have fallen off or how do i get it to bloom again. thanks linda |
| Linda, You can cut off the spent bloom ends if you like but it is not required. However don't do any pruning after about mid summer as late summer and fall pruning will significantly reduce the winter spring blooms. Bougainvilleas bloom on new growth, so maintaining good vigor is important. These plants normally produce their blooms during the short daylength of the winter season provided that temperatures are warm. If a plant is stressed by drought this can also stimulate them to bloom even during times of the year when they normally would not. Container grown plants can be allowed to dry just to the point of wilting and then watered and allowed to just begin to wilt again in a effort to induce another warm season bloom cycle. Don't allow the to dry out too much though as this will result in leaf drop and a summer dormancy period. Keep container plants strong and moderately vigorous by light periodic feedings with a soluble plant food. Plants growing in the landscape will bloom best if kept on the dry side. Both container and landscape bougainvilleas need full sun to bloom well. Thanks for the question. Please stop in again soon! |
