Bougainvillea care: Planting, tips and care you should know

You need to consider how to care for bougainvillea if you want to have an attractive plant that grows strongly and flowers all year round. It is usually hardy and, in some ways, undemanding, but you need to know its needs so that it flowers profusely and is full of colour.

You can choose to plant a potted bougainvillea or grow it in the ground. It adapts well to different spaces, which is why many people choose greenhouses and structures such as: the tunnel greenhouse, straight walls tunnel greenhouse, minitunnel greenhouse or the mini wide span greenhouse. Each one allows you to control the conditions and ensure that the plant grows beautifully.

Are you interested in learning more about bougainvillea? This article will provide you with all the information you need. We will tell you about the different types that exist, how to care for them, and some characteristics that you may not have imagined.

What is bougainvillea?
What types of bougainvilleas or different species are there?
How is bougainvillea planted or sown?
Characteristics of bougainvillea
Bougainvillea care tips you should know
Best greenhouses for caring for bougainvillea

What is bougainvillea?

Bougainvillea is an ornamental climbing plant that originates from tropical and subtropical areas. It is famous for its striking bracts with intense colours, which are often mistaken for flowers, but its actual flowers are small and discreet.

This plant is widely used in gardens, terraces and facades. It resembles a shrub or small tree if controlled by pruning.

What types of bougainvilleas or different species are there?

Before discussing bougainvillea care, let's talk a little about the different species that exist. Each one has special characteristics that influence how it is grown and even how it resists.

Buganvilla glabra: This is one of the most common and widely used varieties in gardens. It is renowned for its hardiness and for producing intensely coloured flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white. It adapts well to hot, dry climates.
Buganvilla spectabilis: It has larger leaves and grows more vigorously. It is ideal for covering large areas, pergolas or walls, although it needs more space and support.
Peruvian bougainvillea: It is characterised by its more compact growth and delicate flowering. It is often used in pots or small gardens due to its more controlled size.
Hybrid bougainvilleas: These are the result of combining different species and offer longer flowering periods, varied colours and, in some cases, greater tolerance to temperature changes.
Varieties by colour: These species include bougainvilleas with purple, pink, red, white, orange and even two-coloured flowers. This allows you to choose the most suitable option for the design of your garden or terrace.

How is bougainvillea planted or sown?

Bougainvillea must be planted correctly in order to grow healthily. Here are some important points to bear in mind:

Planting season: It is recommended that planting take place in spring, when temperatures are mild and there is no longer any risk of frost that could damage the young plant.
Find the right location: The plant needs a very sunny spot, as lack of light directly affects flowering. The more hours of sunlight it receives, the better it will grow.
Consider the type of substrate: If using a pot, it is best to use a light, well-drained substrate. Place a layer of gravel or clay at the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Preparing the soil: It is important to aerate and enrich the soil before planting. Good drainage must also be ensured to protect the roots from excess moisture.

Characteristics of bougainvillea

Bougainvillea has several characteristics that explain why it is such a popular plant in gardens and on terraces. Here are the main ones:

They are fast-growing: When planted, bougainvillea grows quickly, especially in warm climates with good sun exposure.
They are highly resistant: This plant is very resistant to drought and adverse conditions, provided it is not overwatered or exposed to severe frosts.
It flowers profusely: It is characterised by producing many colourful bracts during the flowering season.
It is a climbing plant: It can reach several metres in height and cover walls, pergolas or decorative structures. It just needs the right support.

Bougainvillea care tips you should know

It is important to pay attention to bougainvillea care to ensure that it looks healthy and blooms in the most spectacular way. Below, we will discuss the details.

Adequate light and temperature

Bear in mind that bougainvillea needs many hours of direct sunlight to flower well. If it receives plenty of light, it will develop more intense colours. Temperature is also important, as it prefers warm climates and does not tolerate long frosts well.

Flowering

Flowering usually occurs in spring and summer, although in mild climates it can be prolonged. If there is excessive watering or lack of sunlight, flowering will be poor. Consider these aspects when caring for it.

Planting

It is important not to bury the neck of the plant too deeply when planting it. Bougainvillea appreciates being slightly cramped in the pot, as this encourages flowering rather than excessive leaf growth.

Irrigation

Watering should be moderate. These types of plants tolerate drought better than excess water. It is best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid root problems.

Pruning

Pruning is vital for controlling shape and encouraging flowering. Many people wonder when to prune bougainvillea, and the ideal time is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

Fertiliser

It is recommended to apply a balanced fertiliser, rich in phosphorus and potassium, during the growing and flowering season. This helps to boost flower production and keep the plant vigorous.

Pests and diseases

Another aspect of bougainvillea care involves preventing pests and diseases. Although it is resistant, it can be affected by aphids, scale insects, or red spider mites. The plant should be checked regularly so that action can be taken in time to prevent the problem from spreading.

Best greenhouses for caring for bougainvillea

Greenhouses are a good option for providing all the care that bougainvillea needs and ensuring that the plant is protected from the outset. These structures are a great help during the colder months and can even bring forward flowering.

At FERTRI, we offer different solutions for all types of crops. There are models such as the tunnel greenhouse, which is ideal for protecting ornamental plants and seasonal crops. Meanwhile, the straight walls tunnel greenhouse offers greater height and better use of space.

On the other hand, for smaller crops, you can consider the minitunnel greenhouse, which is perfect for protecting young or delicate plants. The mini wide span greenhouse, meanwhile, is versatile for growing bougainvillea, garlic, vegetables and other varieties of plants throughout the year.

Please feel free to review each model and analyse the most suitable one. You can also contact us for personalised advice so that you can have your greenhouse as soon as possible.