How to Plant Bougainvillea in Pots
Bougainvillea is one of the best organic plants online with bright and large bracts that can easily give any location a tropical look. Being a ground plant, it can also be grown in containers, and therefore is ideal for patios, balconies and any limited-space gardening. Here is how to plant bougainvillaea in pots and guarantee that they blossom as they should:
1. Choosing the Right Pot
Begin by choosing a pot that is sufficiently big enough to contain the root ball of the bougainvillaea plant, such as a pot of at least 12 inches in diameter is preferred for this beauty. Make sure the pot has holes at the bottom to allow drainage since excess water at the bottom causes root rot.
2. Preparing the Potting Mix
Bougainvillea prefers well-draining soil and you can create an optimal potting mix by combining the following:
- One part potting soil: Gives the primary support and energy content.
- One part perlite or coarse sand: Improves and increases the drainage and aeration of the area.
- One part compost: Supplements the nutrients and makes the soil structure to be more suitable for plant growth.
These components should be blended well before filling the pot.
3. Planting the Bougainvillea
- Fill the Pot: Place the potting mix prepared on the pot to about half full.
- Position the Plant: Transplant the bougainvillaea out of its nursery pot. If the roots are rather compact, one should carefully tease them apart. Put the plant in the middle of the pot.
- Backfill with Soil: Add the remaining potting mix in the pot to the top (make sure the base of your dainty plant is at the same height as it was in the nursery pot) before proceeding to pat at the soil around the roots to remove any trapped air.
4. Placement and Care
Bougainvillea plant requires direct sunlight so place your potted plant in an area that it will be exposed to at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Here are some key care tips:
Watering
Bougainvillea should be allowed to fully dry out before watering, and it is recommended to water it weekly in the summer and every three to four days in the winter. The plants need to be watered deeply but not often, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering. Too much water, on the other hand, leads to root rot and inadequate flowering.
Fertilizing
During the spring and summer growing period, make sure to give your bougainvillaea slow-release fertilizer every four to six weeks. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can promote leaf growth instead of flower production.
Pruning
Pruning is important for your bougainvillaea to keep it shapely and promote more flowering. Pinch back any excessive growth and take out any dead or damaged limbs.
Supporting Your Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a vine, and if support is given it helps the vine to grow upwards and also improves the appearance. Plant a trellis or stakes into the pot and as the stems develop, use soft twine to secure them. This not only helps the plant but also enhances the air circulation and sunlight exposure to the plant.
Overwintering
Moving your potted bougainvillaea inside before the first frost if you live in a region with a cold winter is important. Put it in a well-lit area and water it less frequently. Bougainvillea can endure dry indoor climates, but do not put the plant near heaters, or in cold drafts.
Enjoy the Blooms
If well taken care of, your potted bougainvillaea will give you a stunning sight of beautiful bracts. The vivid colours will add a much-needed tropical feel to your home and make your space more cheerful.
It is also possible to grow bougainvillaea in pots if you have a small garden or prefer to keep this wonderful plant indoors. If you follow these steps you will be well on your way to having a healthy, blooming bougainvillea that will be the pride of your neighborhood.
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