Bougainvillea are summer-loving plants. These showstopping climbers thrive in the heat of tropical and sub-tropical temperatures, winding their way over pergolas and porches, surrounding them with subtle fragrance and vibrant color. They are the perfect pick if you want to bring vacation vibes to your yard.

But their fondness for warmth means they don’t like it when temperatures drop and are particularly vulnerable to frost and rain. So getting your beautiful bougainvillea through winter and flowering again the following year can take some extra care.

To help ensure that your summertime star brings bright bursts of pinks, reds, purples and orange, our experts have advice on how to care for bougainvillea and protect it over winter and to ensure that, as it lies dormant, it doesn’t succumb to the cold.

Ideal growing conditions for bougainvilleas

These ornamental vines are part of a family of plants known as the Four O’Clocks (Nyctaginaceae) because they tend to open later in the day.

They are native to Central and South American countries including Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru and Argentina. In the US, they flourish in the warmer southern states. You can start surrounding your home and yard with color with a bougainvillea vine on a trellis from Walmart.

‘Bougainvilleas grow well in southern Florida where climatic conditions rarely drop below 25°F and are best suited in arid environments with well-drained soil,’ says landscape designer John Haryasz.

‘Bougainvilleas grow in USDA zones 9 to 11. Positioning them in full sunlight is ideal as it leads to the formation of their beautiful bracts.’

To keep it blooming in abundance in the summer months, here are the steps you need to follow.

1. Prune bougainvillea in late winter

After the summer is over and the colorful bracts that surround the flower at the centre droop and drop, you can tidy the bougainvillea by trimming away dead and weak-looking stems. A heavier pruning should wait until late winter, however.

‘The prime time to prune is just before the growing season kicks off,’ says David Miller, an experienced arborist. ‘Cut back any leggy growth and thin out dense areas to improve airflow and sunlight penetration.

'Focus on maintaining its natural arching form while removing damaged or dead wood. Regular pruning not only keeps it healthy but also encourages lush growth and more blooms come spring.’

Keep your bougainvillea in check and looking healthy with tools like the steel-bladed Nevlers anvil garden shears from Target.

2. Keep plants warm when temperatures dip

Bougainvilleas aren’t built for icy weather, they prefer warm, frost-free climates. However, with a little preparation, they can be coaxed into surviving cooler zones,’ says David Millar.

‘Temperatures below 30°F can be a deal breaker, causing leaf drop and even damaging the roots, so in regions where winters are icy you’ll need a plan to keep it cozy.’

If your bougainvillea has been grown in a container, the key to its survival is moving it indoors to a space like a greenhouse or garage. Keep it by a window so it can soak up the winter sun.

To keep planted vines warm you can cover the roots with a blanket of organic matter such as grass clippings, leaves, straw or shredded bark.

'Applying a thick layer of mulch – about 4 to 6 inches – around the base of the plant works wonders to protect the roots from freezing,’ says David.

‘If frost is in the forecast, cover your bougainvillea with frost cloth or burlap. Make sure the covering doesn’t touch the plant directly as frost can transfer through the material and nip at the leaves.’

Cover up your cold-hating plants and shrubs with a spun-bond frost blanket from Lowe's.

3. Reduce watering in winter

In milder climates where there is less risk of frost, be careful to avoid overwatering as this could lead to root rot.

Bougainvillea hates sitting in soggy soil, especially in winter when it’s not actively growing. Water sparingly; this plant is happier being a little thirsty than having wet feet.

You can improve drainage in your soil by adding compost, mulch or sand to break it up.

4. Keep the critters away

Pests like aphids and mealybugs love a weakened plant, so keep an eye out and treat infestations early with something gentle. You can eliminate threats to your climber with an eco-friendly plant spray made from Harris neem oil from Amazon.

Insecticidal soap can also be used to wash away spider mites and whiteflies that can suck the life out of bougainvillea leaves and damage the plants.

5. Feed it carefully

Be cautious about attempting to boost your climber with additional nutrients during the time it's lying dormant as it could have the opposite effect, warns David.

‘Bougainvillea despises being over-fertilized in winter. Excess nutrients can encourage weak, spindly growth that’s vulnerable to the cold.

‘Feed sparingly during this time, using a balanced fertilizer in early spring to kickstart the growing season,’ he says.

If you live in a hot spot with low rainfall, your climbers can still thrive and cover your outdoor structures in lush flowers. Follow our guide to the best drought-tolerant climbing vines to plant that will bask in the heat.

If you grow bougainvillea in your yard, you have probably enjoyed a long summer season of vibrant blooms. There are over 300 varieties of bougainvillea, found in shades of pink, white, yellow, orange and red, perfect for adding color to a sunny, south-facing wall or fence.

Whatever color or variety you grow, whether neon pink or pristine white, it is important to know how to care for your climbing plant during the fall. Those long summer days are now but a distant memory, with strong winds, heavy rainfall and plummeting temperatures common during the fall months.

As tender climbers that are best suited to US hardiness zones 9 to 11, your bougainvillea will need protection during the fall and winter, especially in cooler regions. So, whether your plant is in the ground or perhaps you grow bougainvillea in pots, there are a few simple steps to be completed in the fall that will ensure your plants return better than ever next year.

What to do with bougainvillea in the fall

Native to tropical regions in South America, including Brazil and Argentina, bougainvillea plants do not respond well to cool temperatures, heavy rain or stormy weather. With a preference for sunshine and warmth, thriving in regions found in US hardiness zone 10, bougainvillea plants require a little love and attention during the fall. Follow our three simple steps here to learn how to care for and grow bougainvillea as the seasons change.

1. Keep watering your bougainvillea

'Bougainvillea are some of the best climbing plants that love sunny, warm and dry weather,' says Bert Bast, garden expert and owner of Bast Brothers Garden Center. 'Allow them to dry out in between waterings, but infrequent deep waterings in fall will help your plants through winter dormancy.'

As Bert says, though bougainvilleas prefer dry, warm conditions, you should still water during the fall, particularly if there is little rainfall. I suggest continuing to provide water until the first frost arrives. In cooler weather, less water will be needed, but keeping your plant sufficiently hydrated is recommended.

One handy tool to keep an eye on watering is a soil moisture meter, available from Walmart, which will reveal when the soil is dry and when you need to get the watering can out of the garden shed. As a general guide, reduce watering from September once flowering has finished, watering once or twice a month.

2. Move bougainvillea pots to a sheltered location

'Bougainvillea plants like sun and warmth in the spring and summer,' says Sam Niemann, garden expert and founder of Grown by Design, a boutique landscape design firm based in San Diego, and Bleume, a plant fertilizer start-up. 'In October and November, it is a good idea to move potted plants to a sheltered corner of the yard, or indoors to a conservatory or greenhouse,' Sam adds.

Generally speaking, bougainvillea plants don't like the temperature dropping below 50°F/10°C, so it is best to first move any pots closer to your home, or near a protective exterior wall in September or October. Towards November, it is best to move the pot indoors, particularly if you reside in cooler regions like US hardiness zone 7 or below.

If you live in a warm, southerly region and your bougainvillea is planted in the ground, monitor the weather for any unexpected snow or frost. In extreme years when the fall and winter temperatures drop, consider using a frost cloth, available from Walmart, which can help to keep your plant in good health.

3. Mulch your soil

Mulching in the fall is a good idea as it will help protect your bougainvillea plants during the colder months of the year. Add a layer of good quality pine or straw mulch around the base of your climbers in the fall months, doing so before winter gets underway. Pine bark mulch is available from Walmart.

Whether grown in borders or pots, I suggest applying a thick one to two-inch layer of mulch around the base, making sure to leave a small gap around the stem to prevent moisture buildup that can damage the trunk. This will improve the soil quality, suppress weeds and give your bougainvillea a great boost for next year.

FAQs

When should I stop feeding my bougainvillea?

Knowing when, and when not, to fertilize bougainvillea is important. While they are hungry plants, stop feeding at the end of the summer, usually around September. You should not feed your bougainvillea during the fall months. This is a common fertilizing mistake that will do more harm than good. Fertilizing can commence again in the spring, usually around April or May, using a bloom booster fertilizer to encourage a spectacular summer display.

While you might want to tidy up your bougainvillea plants ahead of winter, it is best to put the pruning shears away at least until late winter. In terms of how to prune bougainvillea, any major work can be done in late winter, usually around March, when your bougainvillea is in a dormant state. Blooms will be produced on new growth, so it is best to prune before it begins to leaf out in the spring. During the growing year, you can complete any light pruning as required, although it is a good idea to avoid snipping during extreme heat as this can damage your plant.

Few gardeners will argue they've finished curating their backyards, even after making their dream garden a reality. You might step back to appreciate the full borders you've created, only to see the backdrop of bare fences tainting the view. So why not make the fences part of the planting?

You might be wondering how to replicate living wall ideas on a fence, and the good news is there are plenty of ways of doing so. Plus, living fences are one of the top trends named in the Garden Media Group's 2025 Garden Trends Report, so getting planning your living fence now will have you ahead of the game for the coming year.

The beauty of a living fence is you can interpret it just as you like and create a vertical garden that suits your personal taste. We asked garden experts for their favorite ways to create a living fence and compiled the most beautiful ideas right here for you to explore.

5 inspiring living fence ideas

The GMG trends report notes living fences should be considered a key feature of English garden ideas: 'Whether it's a wild Piet Oudolf hedge or one from Sissinghurst Castle, living fences are a statement of luxury and a functional addition to our outdoor spaces.'

Whether you're looking to capture a quintessential essence in your yard, or simply want to give your garden fence more aesthetic appeal, these expert-chosen living fence ideas are worth browsing for some inspiration.

1. Create a mixed hedge

If you are not sure where to get started with bringing your garden fence to life and like the look of multiple plants for a flowering living wall, as well as foliage, try curating the perfect blend for your yard.

'I absolutely love using a mixed hedge. Combining plants like flowering shrubs, evergreens and even vines can create a layered, textured fence that feels lush and interesting year-round,' says Matthew Coates, landscape design expert and Bainbridge Island architect.

With a base layer of the best evergreen climbers, like ivy and jasmine, you can ensure your fence boasts greenery all-year-round. Adding some blooming plants, such as geraniums, will then give your living fence seasonal interest.

Creating a mixed hedge like Matthew suggests, also has its environmental benefits. 'Imagine creating a layered hedge using native plants. This beautifies your yard year-round and offers habitats for local wildlife,' notes the GMG 2025 Garden Trends Report.

'Cape honeysuckle is one of my favorites for adding a pop of color to a living fence. I love how the bright orange-red flowers attract hummingbirds to the garden,' says Marek Bowers, landscape design expert and founder of Bolder Green.

'Plus, it grows quickly and can be trained to create a hedge if you give it some structure to grow on. It does need pruning now and then to keep its shape, but I find its vibrant blooms make it more than worth it,' he adds.

You can find Cape honeysuckle plants at Walmart.

2. Infuse color with bougainvillea

Among the unique options from the list of the best plants to cover a wall, there is one that stands out - bougainvillea. This statement flowering climber is a tropical plant, native to South America. It's also a popular choice when creating a Mediterranean garden.

'Bougainvillea is a showstopper! The bright, bold blooms are just stunning. I’ve used it along a trellis and it completely transforms a space,' says Marek.

You should grow bougainvillea in a full sun position in US hardiness zone 10 and 11, so a south-facing garden fence is the perfect spot. Use it to brighten your trellis ideas and create a border with it, or train it to grow up an existing fence.

'Just one word of advice: give it room to spread and be ready to prune bougainvillea back occasionally, especially after the flowering season, to keep it under control,' Marek adds.

This Elizabeth Angus Bougainvillea from Nature Hills is a beautiful choice.

3. Opt for variegated foliage

One way to get color on your living fence without using blooms is opting for variegated foliage. If you're a fan of variegated indoor plants, you'll know just how eye-catching the unique hues and patterns of these plants are - as living fence plants, they'll make your boundaries a feature worth talking about.

Ivy is a great plant to start with, as it has an array of varieties in different colors, such as this Yellow Ripple Ivy from Nature Hills. Alternatively, Actinidia kolomikta, or ornamental kiwi, offers pink and white foliage that looks as though it's painted.

'To create more visual interest, you can also choose shrubs or trees with berries and fruit,' says gardening expert and writer Janet Loughrey. This is a great option for fall and winter, adding color in place of summer blooms.

There are plenty of shrubs with winter berries that could be used to create a living fence, such as this Beautyberry from Nature Hills.

4. Embrace formal planting

Sometimes keeping it simple is the best way to go, so consider landscaping with hedges to create a neat living wall.

'Boxwood is a classic evergreen, and easy to shape. It’s perfect if you want a formal, clean look in your yard,' says Matthew Coates. It's versatile nature also makes it one of the best plants for topiary.

Other options, include fast-growing hedges like privet. 'I’ve found privet to be a great choice if you’re looking for a classic hedge that fills in fast. It grows thick and dense, which means instant garden privacy once it’s established,' says Marek.

There are a range of ideas from formal garden design that can be adapted to creating a living boundary. Try growing and pruning a hedge around a metal fence, as photographed above, to get the look.

5. Weave a willow fence

To take the term 'living fence' literally, ditch the fence altogether and use plants to create your boundary. Willow weaving is an effective way to do this, and it can be personalized to match the style of your yard.

You can use a range of willow plants to do this, as well as different types of dogwood you might have growing in your yard. For example, this Bailey Red Twigged Dogwood from Nature Hills will add a pop of bright color to your living fence during fall and winter when everything else dies back.

Stick to a lattice pattern, like above, for a classic look, or get creative and make unique shapes with your woody stems.

This can even create a sturdy base for building out your living fence with other plants.

FAQs

Do living fences reduce pollutants in the air?

Yes, to some extent living fences and living walls reduce pollutants in the air. This is because the plants used in a vertical gardens capture and trap pollutants from the air before safely releasing them to the ground when it rains. They also help to cool the air through transpiration and can attract more wildlife to your yard.

'Living fences are also good for the soil, prevent erosion and help with drainage. It’s like giving back to the environment while getting a beautiful yard at the same time,' says Marek Bowers, landscape design expert and founder of Bolder Green.

'Remember to choose plant varieties that won’t outgrow their space,' advises Janet Loughrey. With only so much room on a fence, you need to choose plants that can be contained easily. Other considerations include how many environmental benefits you want to reap from your living fence - for example, by choosing from the best living wall plants for cleaning the air.

If you want vibrant color in your yard, bougainvilleas are a great option. These tropical plants are easily recognizable for their vivid, showy flowers that can vine and fill garden walls and fences during spring and summer.

You might be surprised to learn that bougainvilleas are not just climbing plants, but can also be grown as bonsai trees. Growing shrubs or trees in miniature form - the art of bonsai - is a traditional Japanese technique with remarkable results. Bonsai care might seem intimidating, and it certainly does require both skill and patience, but by following a few rules, you will not be disappointed.

So, while you might know how to grow bougainvillea in pots, growing and caring for a bonsai tree requires a somewhat different approach. We asked a tropical plant expert to share all the crucial information you need to guarantee success when growing in miniature.

How to grow bougainvillea bonsai trees

Growing in miniature means that any gardener, regardless of which US hardiness zone you reside in, can successfully nurture a bougainvillea plant. This is because smaller pots and plants can be protected and brought indoors during the cold winter months. So, whether you have a small terrace, patio and balcony, follow our guide and learn how to grow and care for bougainvillea bonsai specimens.

How to get started with bougainvillea bonsai trees

There are many different bonsai tree types, but perhaps none are as colorful as bougainvillea. To get started, the easiest option is to buy a ready-trained bougainvillea bonsai tree, available from Amazon, or, if you are feeling up for a challenge, you can choose to grow your bonsai from a small seedling or plant. Bougainvillea live plants are available from Amazon.

'When growing bougainvillea bonsai trees, I suggest choosing a dwarf variety with smaller leaves and smaller flowers, which will make things easier for you when training your miniature specimen,' says Tatiana Anderson, plant expert and co-founder of Top Tropicals. Tatiana recommends Bougainvillea 'Dwarf Pixie', 'Helen-Johnson', 'Sunvillea Cream', and 'Sunvillea Pink', all of which are dwarf varieties.

'Use a small, shallow bonsai pot with good drainage,' Tatiana adds. 'I recommend using a bonsai soil mix as it provides proper aeration and drainage.' Bonsai ceramic pots are available from Amazon. 'It is best to start with a pot that is 10 to 12 inches in diameter, and as the bonsai plant grows, you can move up to larger pots.

'Place your bougainvillea in a sunny location,' Tatiana says. 'Much the same as bougainvillea climbers, bonsai versions will require plenty of light to thrive and bloom.'

Once your bougainvillea is potted up, patience and pruning are the two key aspects when tending to bonsai trees.

Shop bonsai accessories

Ongoing care for bougainvillea bonsai trees

'When training bonsai specimens, it is best to use small canes and bonsai wire, available from Walmart, to shape your small tree,' says Tatiana. Remember that you are trying to create a tree in miniature form, so one leader, or trunk, with a small canopy is the desired result. Over time the central stem will thicken and be able to support horizontal stems without the need for canes.

'It is vital that you regularly prune your bonsai to maintain the shape and size of the tree,' Tatiana says. 'Prune your bougainvillea immediately after any blooms have faded, but you can snip any shoots or new growth that is unwanted throughout the growing season,' Tatiana adds.

It is best to 'repot your bonsai plant every 2 to 3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, but choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as bougainvilleas prefer to be somewhat root-bound.'

Be sure to water your bougainvillea throughout the spring and summer when the top inch of soil is dry. Your pot must have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Fertilize bougainvillea bonsai trees with a bougainvillea fertilizer, available from Amazon, every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

In cooler regions, such as US hardiness zone 5, be sure to protect bougainvillea bonsai trees during the winter months, bringing the pot indoors or storing it in a heated greenhouse.

FAQs

Can I keep a bougainvillea bonsai tree indoors all year round?

Yes, it is possible to grow a bougainvillea plant indoors all year round. However, bougainvillea plants can suffer from pest attacks when grown indoors in humid environments, so be sure to regularly inspect your plants. If possible, move your bougainvillea outdoors for the summer, as they will benefit from direct sunshine and fresh air.

Growing bougainvillea bonsai trees is a long-term project, but with the right approach, you will eventually enjoy your very own miniature tree sculpture. For more information on growing in miniature, see our guide to the art of bonsai and growing for mental well-being.

Growing in pots is an ideal way to add impact to outside spaces. Whether you have a small terrace, patio or balcony, growing climbers in pots is a clever solution that can have a transformative effect. Not only are they beautiful, but floral vines can help enclose a yard, providing privacy and screening to make your space a tranquil haven.

Many popular flowering climbers can be grown in pots, including star jasmine and clematis. Bougainvillea is another impressive plant that can also be grown in containers, with tropical-looking blooms opening in bold, rich colors.

While you might know how to grow bougainvillea in the garden border, growing bougainvillea in pots requires a slightly different approach to ensure that your plant thrives to its full potential. Here, one tropical plant expert reveals how best to care for this flowering climber to ensure it blooms all summer long.

How to grow bougainvillea in pots

Bougainvillea plants are native to equatorial regions in South America, typically found growing in US hardiness zone 9 and US hardiness zone 10. Growing bougainvillea in pots, however, is a good solution if you adore this tropical climber but reside in a cooler zone. Container-grown plants can be protected during the winter months, meaning that wherever you live, you can enjoy the colorful blooms of the tropics.

How to care for bougainvillea in pots

'Bougainvilleas are superb pot plants that will add vibrant color to any yard,' says Tatiana Anderson, plant expert and co-founder of Top Tropicals. 'Select a pot that is 10 to 12 inches in diameter to begin with, and as the plant grows, you can move up to larger pots, but it is important not to over-pot small plants.'

Position your container in a sunny, sheltered spot. The more sun your plant enjoys, the more blooms it will produce. Gardeners who complain that their bougainvillea is not flowering have often positioned their climber in a shady spot, so make sure your new plant gets as much light as possible.

'Use well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix, available from Walmart. You can also mix regular potting soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage,' Tatiana adds. 'I would recommend repotting your bougainvillea every 2 to 3 years or when the plant becomes too big for its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as bougainvilleas prefer to be somewhat root-bound.

'Through the warmer months, be sure to monitor your bougainvillea as it will require frequent watering when the temperatures rise,' Tatiana says. 'Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, but ensure that your pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.'

It is also important to fertilize bougainvillea during the growing season which will improve soil health and replenish nutrients in the pot. 'Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season,' Tatiana adds, 'but reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.' Bougainvillea fertilizer is available from Walmart.

Finally, when considering how to grow bougainvillea in pots, it is important to train your climber so that it grows where you want it to grow. There are many different climbing plant support ideas to pick from, but whether you opt for a trellis, wires, or a hazel structure, be sure to tie in new shoots and train your plant upwards. Garden twine is available from Walmart.

Bougainvillea varieties to grow in pots

Bougainvillea plants stand out from the crowd. Whether you choose a deep maroon red or a bubblegum pink variety, these climbing plants are sure to cause a stir when grown against a garden wall.

For a pink variety, try growing Bougainvillea 'Raspberry Ice', available to order online from Amazon. With rich magenta blooms and striking variegated foliage, this variety would certainly add impact to a terrace or patio.

If you are seeking something unusual, try a golden-yellow variety, such as Bougainvillea 'California Gold'. Live starter plants are available from Amazon. With yellow blooms that darken with age, this variety is particularly striking when grown against a dark surface.

FAQs

How should I protect bougainvillea plants that are grown in pots during the winter?

In cooler US hardiness zones, such as zones 4 and 5, it is a good idea to protect your plants during the frosty and cold winter months. If you can, move your container to a greenhouse or potting shed from November to April, to protect your plant from the cold weather. If this is not possible, consider using horticultural fleece to cover your plant, which reduces the risk posed by snow and frost.

Learning how to grow bougainvillea in pots is a great way to incorporate floral climbers into smaller spaces. Whether you have a balcony or a small yard, it is possible to add some tropical detail to your planting combinations. See our guide on what to do with bougainvillea in the fall to keep your climbers looking their best.

For more vertical gardening ideas, see our guide on climbing plants to grow up a house.

Bougainvillea are long-flowering climbing plants renowned for producing brightly colored blooms for much of the spring, summer, and fall. These vibrant climbers often remind me of holidays in southern Europe, cascading over white-washed walls on sun-drenched streets. While your reality might be a little different from this postcard-like image of a Greek island, growing bougainvillea can help to beautify any outside space and transport you - even if only for a minute - to a faraway place.

When considering how to care for and grow bougainvillea, these plants are native to warmer regions and zones and grow best in sheltered spots and full-sun positions. With the right conditions and care, bougainvilleas can grow up to 3 feet in a single growing season. It is no wonder that they are often thought of as some of the best climbing plants to grow for color, impact and vigor.

Knowing how to fertilize bougainvillea plants is important, and while these tropical-looking climbers can often grow just fine without regular fertilization, feeding in the spring and summer can help support plant growth and extend flowering. Here, plant experts advise on the most suitable timing and best approach to feeding your bougainvillea.

How to fertilize bougainvillea

If you are looking for a colorful climber, planting a bougainvillea in your yard is sure to make a bold statement. Whether growing these climbing plants at the front of the house or perhaps vining over a structure in the backyard, vibrant pink, purple, or yellow blooms will undoubtedly add impact to your space.

These plants are native to South America and tend to grow best in US hardiness zone 9 and US hardiness zone 10, so be sure to position them in a sunny and protected area in the yard. If you have an established climber, or a recently planted one, fertilizing bougainvillea is a job to add to your summer gardening checklist.

When to fertilize bougainvillea

'Bougainvilleas are light feeders and can often go years without needing fertilization,' says Sam Niemann, garden expert and founder of Grown by Design, a boutique landscape design firm based in San Diego.

However, if your bougainvillea is not flowering or blooming has been poor this year, it can be a sign that your climber could do with some fertilizer for a boost.

For bougainvilleas growing in the ground, Sam says the 'best time to fertilize is in early spring.' Following a 'light feeding schedule helps maintain healthy blooms without over-stimulating foliage growth,' Sam adds.

For bougainvillea plants grown in pots, I would suggest feeding once a month from spring until the end of summer. As with any plants grown in pots, bougainvilleas in containers need more watering and feeding than those planted directly in the ground.

How to fertilize bougainvillea

'Bougainvilleas love the sun but do best when they thoroughly dry out between waterings and feedings,' says Bert Bast, garden expert and owner of Bast Brothers Garden Center. It is important to remember that these tropical plants thrive with sunshine and prefer dry soils.

'If they are planted in the ground, you should not need to fertilize,' Bert adds, 'I usually just add some fresh mulch and compost to the borders each year to improve soil health.' Mulch is available to order online from Walmart.

'If your bougainvillea appears stressed, or you are seeing yellowing leaves or a reduction in blooming, it might be time to apply a small amount of fertilizer,' Bert continues.

For plants in containers, Bert recommends using an organic fertilizer 'to continually improve soil conditions.' Feeding consistently at regular intervals during the spring and summer is best, 'so that your plants remain healthy,' Bert says. Bougainvillea fertilizer is available from Walmart.

Typically, fertilizers high in nitrogen will help if you want to encourage leafy, green growth, while feeds high in potash - or potassium - will help boost flower production and intensify the color of the blooms. Many products that are high in potash are available to buy in garden stores or online, such as this tomato feed from Amazon.

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FAQs

What fertilizer will encourage leafy, green growth for a young bougainvillea?

If you have recently planted young bougainvillea in your yard, consider applying a fertilizer high in nitrogen. This is recommended for encouraging plenty of lush new stems and foliage. Fertilizers that are high in potassium will encourage flower production.

While feeding bougainvilleas is not always necessary, fertilizing can help improve plant health and blooming during the growing season, particularly for climbers grown in pots. For more bougainvillea growing advice, see our guide on how to prune bougainvillea, to trim and tidy your climbers this year.

Bougainvilleas are some of the best climbing plants, typically cascading over garden walls and fences with bright and brilliant flowers. These tropical-looking plants are prized for their long-flowering nature, often blooming for many months during summer if the growing conditions are right.

In smaller spaces, bougainvilleas can be grown in pots and trained to cover trellises or garden structures. Annually pruning your bougainvilleas will help to restrict their growth, keeping them compact and floriferous.

Fortunately, learning how to care for and grow bougainvillea is straightforward, and these climbers thrive in sunny, warm regions. However, sometimes bougainvilleas can struggle, and blooming can be much reduced. If your plant needs some love and attention this year, fear not, our guide will help assess why your bougainvillea might not be flowering, and offer solutions that can help.

Why is my bougainvillea not flowering?

Bougainvillea plants are native to South America, growing in Brazil, Peru and Argentina. These climbing plants are not hardy, and only those gardeners who reside in US hardiness zone 9 and US hardiness zone 10 can leave a bougainvillea plant outside in the winter months and expect it to survive.

While these plants are prized for their flowers, sometimes bougainvilleas can begin to look tired and woody, failing to produce many blooms. There are three main reasons why this might be the case.

Overwatering your bougainvillea

'Bougainvillea plants love the sun, thriving in tropical regions,' says Bert Bast, garden expert and owner of Bast Brothers Garden Center. 'While they can be thirsty plants, these plants do better drying out between waterings,' Bert continues.

Bougainvilleas are drought-tolerant and thrive in dry weather, so the best approach to caring for these flowering climbers might seem cruel, but allowing the soil to dry out in between waterings will help to produce more flowers.

'Excessive water might lead to lush, green foliage, but can inhibit flowering,' Bert adds, meaning that your plant will appear verdant without many booms.

I would advise watering deeply, once per week, and sticking to a watering schedule. One tool to help with watering would be a monitor, such as this soil moisture meter, available from Walmart.

Finding the right position in the yard for bougainvillea plants

'Bougainvillea plants may fail to flower for various reasons,' says Sam Niemann, garden expert and founder of Grown by Design, a boutique landscape design firm based in San Diego. 'One of the main reasons can be insufficient sunlight.'

Bougainvilleas thrive in full sun, doing best in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours of the day. In shady positions, your climbers can struggle.

'These plants require full sun to bloom optimally,' Sam continues. 'If your plant has elongated stems with wide gaps between the leaves, it’s a sign that it’s not getting enough light.'

In the right position, bougainvillea plants can grow up to 4 feet in one season, meaning that you can buy small, starter bougainvillea plants, available from Walmart, and they will soon become large flowering climbers, filling walls and fences with blooms.

Feeding your bougainvillea plants

'Bougainvilleas are not heavy feeders,' Sam continues. 'If your plant is growing vigorously with little to no flowers, reduce the amount of fertilizer you are using.'

While you might think feeding your plants will help them thrive, too much fertilizer can do more harm than good.

'To encourage bougainvilleas to flower, provide them with the right growing conditions, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, ensure they receive ample sunlight, and avoid over-fertilizing,' Sam adds.

If you are growing your plant in a pot, you may find that feeding every other month can help with flowering, but I would suggest using below the recommended amount of fertilizer. It would be best to use a fertilizer intended for flower production, such as this Miracle-Gro bloom booster fertilizer, available from Walmart.

FAQs

What fertilizer is recommended for bougainvillea plants?

Over-fertilizing bougainvillea can harm your plant, so it is always best to use less fertilizer than you might for other plants. Fertilizers high in potassium, or potash, are useful for flowering and fruiting plants and vegetables, such as this potassium feed from Amazon.

Ensuring that your bougainvillea is in the right place and using the right amount of water and fertilizer will help your climbing plants thrive. For more bougainvillea growing information, see our guide on how to propagate bougainvillea, to increase your collection this year.

Bougainvillea are climbing plants that are often used to cover walls or trellises. Loved for their bright and colorful bracts, these tropical plants need to be trimmed annually to keep them in check.

The vining plants are hardy in US hardiness zones 9b-11 and can survive outdoors year-round. In colder climates they are either grown as annuals or used in containers or hanging baskets, to be brought indoors to overwinter and brighten up a greenhouse or conservatory. 

When you are growing bougainvillea, they will benefit from trimming regularly throughout the year. The methods for how to prune bougainvillea are simple to follow. We haver gathered tips from plant experts about when and how to trim these popular climbers.

Why is it important to prune bougainvillea?

Bougainvilleas are vigorous growers and they do need to be kept under control. For example, it may be one of the best climbing plants for the front of the house, but can quickly grow into a crowded and unruly mess if left to its own devices - which would not be an attractive welcome to your home. 

Pruning keeps the plants at a manageable size and stops them looking wild and unkempt.

When to prune bougainvillea

Bougainvillea can be pruned in two windows throughout the year. The first is the ideal time for pruning for structure and form, and the other to tidy and promote more flowering. 

‘The best time to do any major structural pruning is in late winter or early spring when the bougainvillea is in a semi-dormant state,’ says Jessica Mercer from Plant Addicts. ‘It produces flower bracts (not actual flowers) on new growth, so prune before it begins to leaf out in the spring.’ 

It is important not to make a pruning mistake and head out too early to prune. If you prune bougainvillea in late fall you will stimulate a new flush of growth that will not have time to harden off and will be damaged by frosts.

The other time to prune bougainvillea comes in summer. It can be done anytime during the summer as the plant is actively growing, however the task is best avoided during periods of extreme heat.

How to cut back bougainvillea

The colorful bracts of bougainvillea appear on new shoots produced that year and the pruning takes place in late winter or early spring before that year’s growth starts to sprout. Start by looking to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems from the plant before embarking on pruning to create the required form.

Bethany Lakatos, Plant Expert at Fast Growing Trees, advises to assess and identify which shoots have outgrown the required space, whether it is on a wall, trellis, or if you are growing the climbing plant on an arch.

‘Follow these shoots back to a healthy bud or to the main shoot, which may look like a thick branch, and make a pruning cut,’ she recommends. ‘Next, assess the base of the plant, looking for older, crowded wood (the older wood will be the thicker, brownish green wood). 

‘Cut out these older stems, and tie in young shoots to fill gaps where the older stems were removed. Side shoots growing off of main branches can be pruned back to about an inch, leaving a few leaves or buds on the shoot.’

The summer pruning is very simple to undertake and allows you to encourage more branching and flowering by pruning or pinching off new growth and removing old flower clusters. 

Jessica Mercer recommends: ‘Snip the ends off leggy branches above a node, and 2-3 new shoots will typically emerge below the cut. You should also deadhead or pinch out spent blooms (bracts) to encourage new growth and extend the blooming season.’

The deadheading of withered bracts should be done regularly throughout the blooming period, as it can prolong flowering all the way through into fall. 

How to prune bougainvillea in pots

Compact varieties of bougainvillea can be grown successfully in pots as part of a container garden. The flowering vines can then be kept under control by pruning them little and often as required to keep them to your desired size and shape. 

‘Maximum color and compact growth are especially important for bougainvillea grown in containers or hanging baskets,’ says Bethany Lakatos. ‘Though these types of bougainvillea need less pruning and maintenance, removing spent flower clusters or pruning back a long shoot here and there can keep plants looking fresh and well kept throughout the growing season.’

Bougainvillea in pots will require a prune in winter or early spring to cut back last year’s flowering stems and develop the form and size that you want it to be ahead of the new growth starting in spring. A plant brought indoors over winter will start growing earlier than plants outside in the garden - so that will impact when you do the winter prune.

Tips for pruning bougainvillea

• Always use clean and sharp pruning shears to trim bougainvilleas. It will make pruning easier, make clean cuts that are easier to heal, and reduce the risk of spreading diseases around the backyard 
• Bethany Lakatos warns to ‘avoid using electric hedge trimmers’ on bougainvillea, saying: ‘This only removes the outer growth and can leave jagged, uneven cuts or wounds in the woody shoots.’ 
• Many bougainvilleas have sharp thorns, so it is recommended to wear thick gloves and long sleeves when trimming the plants. A pair of thorn-proof gardening gauntlets, such as these Heavy Duty Gauntlets available at Amazon, are ideal for trimming bougainvilleas
• Any trimmings can be saved to propagate new bougainvilleas, as they root fairly easily from plant cuttings

FAQs

Bougainvilleas are plants that can be used to bring a Mediterranean garden vibe to your backyard ideas. They can scramble up a trellis and brighten up a vertical surface, such as a wall or fence.

Bougainvilleas are such impactful and exotic vines that it’s no wonder you might want to propagate an existing plant, or that of a friend or neighbor. Even where winters are too severe for them, the possibility of container planting makes them a desirable choice.

The colorful climbing plants are evergreen and flower prolifically and once established they are not difficult to look after providing you get in the know about bougainvillea care and growing. And if enjoying these stars of the garden makes you want to make more, you can.

In this guide, we detail the two ways you could propagate bougainvillea to create extra plants with advice from gardening professionals. 

2 ways to propagate bougainvillea

Taking plant cuttings is one of the methods by which you can propagate bougainvillea. ‘Cuttings, either semi-ripe cuttings or hardwood cuttings, are the more common way to propagate the plants,’ says H&G’s gardening expert Drew Swainston. ‘These can take several months to root, though you can speed up the process by providing a good amount of heat to the roots.’

The second method? Layering – an alternative you could try if you’re prepared to wait a little while. These are the details on both ways to propagate bougainvillea.

Propagate bougainvillea by taking cuttings

Taking semi-ripe cuttings can be the most straightforward way to propagate bougainvillea. Doing so from your own plant is complication-free or you might be able to ask a friend or good neighbor if you can take cuttings from their vine if you have fallen for its charms. Take a cutting in summer and follow these steps. 

1. Wearing gloves to avoid the vine’s thorns and using sharp, clean pruning shears, take a 4 to 6 inch cutting from a stem that’s hard at the bottom but has a soft tip. Put into a plastic bag.
2. Prepare the cutting by first removing any side shoots.
3. Cut away a thin piece of bark around ½ inch long on one side of the stem at its base to make a wound. This helps rooting.
4. Remove lowest leaves and soft tips. Around four or five leaves should remain at the top of the stem.
5. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder. Tap off excess.
6. Insert into potting mix and water. Keep in a heated propagator or put a plastic bag over the top for a greenhouse effect and place somewhere warm and light but not in direct sunlight. Keep soil damp.
7. Cuttings may take four to six weeks to root – or longer. Wait for a few leaves to develop and new growth, then remove from the propagator or take off the bag. Harden off for two or three weeks before planting.

When you use this method of propagation for a bougainvillea, be mindful that it’s worth taking several cuttings to increase the chances of success.

Propagate bougainvillea by layering

Layering is an alternative way to create new bougainvilleas from a plant already thriving in your yard. It’s a technique you should use in spring. This is what to do from garden writer Graham Rice.

1. Identify the tip of a branch growing near soil level.
2. Around 6 to 9 inches from the tip, clear weeds, if there are any, or any mulch where the shoot touches the ground.
3. Remove soil until the lower part of the shoot touches the soil about 1 inch deep. Cover with soil and firm with your hand
4. Place a large stone or brick over the buried shoot.
5. Wait until fall when the shoot will have roots and there should be new growth at the tip.
6. Follow the shoot from the tip back to just past the rooting point. Snip off. Dig up the rooted part and plant in the location selected for the new bougainvillea.

FAQs

Bougainvillea make for impactful climbers and you may want to add an extra to your yard. ‘The main benefit of propagating bougainvillea through cuttings is money saving,’ says H&G’s Drew Swainston. ‘This represents a cheaper option of getting more plants than buying them from the garden center. While it can be a temperamental and longer way to get new plants, not only do you save money but you can also have the immense satisfaction of knowing that you propagated your own bougainvillea.’

For more bougainvillea information, see our guide on why is my bougainvillea not flowering.

Bougainvilleas are among the most exotic looking plants you can grow. These bushy vines can be so prolific in flower that their vivid colors hide the leaves. Many are also vigorous in growth, but respond well to simple pruning.

Having said that bougainvilleas are hardy only to USDA Z9, in cooler zones they will not survive the winter outdoors. However, in areas where the winters are too harsh for bougainvilleas to survive outside, bougainvilleas can be grown in containers, pruned every year to restrict their size and moved into a frost-free environment as winter approaches.

There is no doubt that bougainvilleas are colorful climbing plants with flowers in orange, yellow, apricot, red, purple, magenta, pink and white. But look closely and you will see that the true flowers are small and white and the color is provided by what look like papery leaves that surround them. These are known as bracts. They are much more colorful and longer lasting than the flowers themselves, and provide the color that attracts pollinating insects. The fact that these bracts are long lasting adds enormously to the intensity of the delay.

Bougainvilleas: key facts

• Plant type: Thorny, sprawling evergreen vine
• Mature size: 8-20ft+, depending on variety, fertilizing, climate and pruning
• Soil type: Well-drained
• Soil pH: Acid
• Situation: Full sun
• Time to plant: Spring, summer
• Flowering time: Spring, summer, fall
• Flower color: Orange, pink, purple, red, white, yellow and more
• Hardiness zones: USDA Z9
• Scientific name: Bougainvillea
• Common name: Bougainvillea

How to choose bougainvilleas for your yard

Choosing bougainvilleas is a simple matter. Have you the space for a traditional type that grows to a large size, or do you need a modern dwarf variety for a container? Which color of these flowering climbers do you prefer? Finally, do you need a variety with colorful leaves that looks attractive even when there are no flowers?

Bougainvilleas can be conveniently divided into four groups according to the size of the plants as they reach maturity – dwarf, semi-dwarf, medium-sized and large. They can also be divided into two foliage groups – most bougainvilleas have green foliage, but some have attractive variegated leaves.

• Dwarf bougainvillias Maturing at a height and spread of about 3-6ft, these varieties are ideal plants for hanging baskets, container gardening for the deck or balcony, small backyards where space is very limited, or for ground cover in relatively small spaces. Look for ‘Pink Pixie’ (pink flowers, chartreuse leaves, available at Fast Growing Trees), Sunvillea Series (pink, rose or yellow flowers, bushy growth), 'Yani's Delight' (cream and pink shades, superb in a hanging basket).
• Semi-dwarf bougainvilleas Reaching 6-10ft in height when mature, try one of these for large planters, as specimens in small and medium-sized yards, and for ground cover. Plants in this group are too large for hanging baskets. Look for 'Bengal Orange' (pinkish-orange flowers, variegated leaves), Golden Jackpot (‘MonSam’) (purple flowers, variegated leaves), ‘Miss Alice’ (white flowers, few thorns).

• Medium-sized bougainvilleas Maturing at 10-120ft, these impressive varieties make spectacular specimens in large gardens, as well as colorful impenetrable boundaries and are ideal plants to hide ugly walls and fences. Look for ‘Imperial Delight’ (pink shades, takes hard pruning), Purple Queen ('Moneth') (purple flowers, good ground cover), ‘White Stripe’ (white flowers, variegated leaves).
• Tall bougainvilleas These astonishing varieties are very vigorous and can reach more than 20ft in height, although they can be kept smaller with enthusiastic early spring pruning. Ideal scrambling over tumbledown buildings and other eyesores. Look for Camarillo Fiesta ('Monle') (unusual combination of pink and gold flowers), ‘Barbara Karst’ (hot pink flowers, very reliable, available from Fast Growing Trees), Gold Rush ('MONCliff') (sharp yellow maturing to gold).
• Variegated varieties Variegated bougainvilleas have yellow, cream or white margins to the leaves as well as colorful flowers. Look for ‘Blueberry Ice’ (rich, lavender-blue flowers, creamy white variegation, 3-4ft), ‘Bengal Orange' (pinkish orange flowers, creamy variegation, 6-8 ft), ‘Golden Jackpot’ (purple flowers, gold variegation, 6-10ft).

Where to grow bougainvilleas

Bougainvilleas will take a light frost, but generally need frost-free conditions so are ideal in USDA Zone 9 and above.

They will usually only grow and flower well in full sun, although in our warmest zones they will take a few hours of light shade. Deep shade can prevent your bougainvillea from flowering. A site with good drainage is important, on a slope perhaps or in sandy or gravelly soil. Due to their vigorous scrambling growth they are best grown up robust supports, although if simply left alone many will spread into a tangle of tall ground cover.

For gardeners in Zone 8 and below, growing in well-drained potting soil in a container or planter box is ideal. The pot can then be moved into a frost-free place for winter protection.

Some gardeners in colder zones grow their bougainvilleas as annual plants, and buy a new plant each spring.

Planting bougainvilleas

Plant bougainvilleas in spring or early summer. The roots are a little delicate and easily damaged so do not loosen the roots in their potting soil. Simply dig a planting hole larger than the rootball, mix in some well-rotted garden compost or planting mix, then set your new bougainvillea in the hole, with the surface of the potting soil level with the surrounding soil. Fill in and firm gently.

Choose a site where these fast-growing flowering vines will have space to grow without smothering nearby plants and be sure to set them back from garden paths and gateways and decks to prevent accidental encounters with the thorns.

Care tips

Once bougainvilleas have settled in after planting, they need little care. They rarely need watering as they actively prefer dry conditions.

Fertilizing bougainvillea, however, is another matter. Bougainvilleas can only grow with their natural vigor if the plants are well fed. A regular treatment of a fertilizer specially formulated for bougainvilleas, such as Bougain, available on Amazon, is ideal.

Bougainvilleas usually flower well without pruning but you may need to reach for the pruners if your plants start to take up too much space or if there are dead or damaged branches that need removing.

After the main burst of spring flowering is the best time to prune bougainvilleas. Pruning also stimulates fresh new growth and it is these shoots that will soon carry more flowers. Make sure you clean your pruning shears first, and beware of the thorns. Wear stout, long-sleeved gloves for protection, and do not lean into the bush too closely – better still, wear eye protection. Even sunglasses are better than no protection at all. These Acdyion gardening gloves from Amazon would be a suitable choice.

Making more bougainvilleas

The easiest and simplest way to make more bougainvilleas, though not the quickest, is layering.

In spring, look low down on the plant and find the tip of a branch growing near ground level. Clear away any weeds or mulch at the point at which the shoot touches the ground about 6-9in behind the shoot tip.

Scrape away some more dirt until the underside of the shoot touches the dirt about an inch deep. Cover with soil, firm with your hand, then place a large stone or brick over the buried shoot. This stops it moving and marks the spot. Then – do nothing.

By the fall, the shoot will have made roots and new growth should have developed at the tip. Follow the shoot from the tip back to just past the rooting point. Snip it off, dig up the rooted part and plant it in its new home.

Problems and how to solve them

Relatively few pests or diseases attack bougainvilleas. Prevention is always better than cure, so be sure not to encourage root rot by overwatering.

Shortage of nutrients, including minor nutrients that we all tend to forget about, can increase your bougainvillea’s susceptibility to diseases and also make the leaves turn pale.

Regular treatment with Bougain, which includes the right balance of major and minor plant nutrients for bougainvilleas, will keep your plant healthy and resistant to may problems.

Sooty mold can be found even on healthy plants and looks serious but is easy to deal with. This is a fungus that grows not on the leaves, but on the juice dropped by aphids, scale insects, mealybugs and other sap sucking insects on the leaves and stems above. Use an organic pest spray or make your own by mixing one tablespoon of liquid dish washing detergent into a gallon of water, stirring well and spraying on both sides of the leaves using a mister or garden sprayer.

How to buy bougainvilleas

Buying by mail order will open up the widest choice of varieties, websites provide good images and simple texts describing the features of the different varieties.

Some nurseries sell quite small plants in 2 1/2in pots. These are the most economical as their light weight does not incur uncomfortable shipping charges. But you will have to wait for your new bougainvillea to reach a good size.

Plants in increasingly large sizes are also available – in effect, when you buy larger plants you are buying the time that the plant took to reach a larger size. Very large specimens are sometimes available, but check shipping costs carefully.

In areas where bougainvilleas grow well outside, USDA Z9 and above, you will also find bougainvilleas offered in the garden departments of DIY stores and by walk-in nurseries, more often in gallon, or two or three gallon, pots.

FAQs

Bougainvilleas enjoy dry, frost-free conditions and plenty of sunshine so will thrive in situations that are unsuitable for many other vines and shrubs. They do not insist on being pruned regularly and will flower well even if never pruned.

Smaller varieties are also good plants for pots, and they will not complain if you miss watering once in a while.