But how much do we love Bougainvillea ?
In summer we see it brightening up walls and hedges with its cascades of colorful flowers 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 the right temperatures.
Here are some growing and pruning tips .
Bougainvillea: growing tips
Many types of bougainvillea are climbing and suitable for growing in the ground, while others, including the buttiana 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 encourage water flow.
Then fill with fresh, soft, airy soil.
The easiest way to propagate Bougainvillea is by cutting: a twig about ten centimeters long is cut from an adult specimen and inserted directly into the soil.
Alternatively, it can be placed in a vase filled with sand and peat.
You can also use seeds or transplant already grown seedlings, as long as this takes place in spring, when the climatic conditions are ideal for this type of plant.
Bougainvillea is a fairly hardy plant and is not easy prey to disease, but aphids and mealybugs are always on the lookout.
Bougainvillea: pruning
Bougainvillea tends to grow and spread quickly, so timely pruning is essential.
Do this:
to prune potted bushes , cut the tips
For climbers, remove about a third of the weakest and/or irregular branches. Use the pruning shears, keeping the blades slightly angled to the branch.
With these few simple precautions, the plant will grow healthily and vigorously and remain intact for a long time.