How to Grow and Care for the Bougainvillea Plant in Containers
Intro: Because the bougainvillea plant is salt-tolerant, drought-resistant and survives in warm climates, it is commonly seen in warm coastal areas, such as southern California. Bougainvillea does well in larger plant containers on sunny balcony gardens, and they provide vertical interest to a small garden when grown up a trellis. Its heart-shaped leaves come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, orange and purple. There are many varieties of bougainvillea, including variegated and double-flowered cultivars. This plant will bring a splash of color to your balcony garden.
Scientific Name: Bougainvillea species
Plant Type: Flowering woody vine
Light: Full sun
Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and needs little water once it is established. In the warmer months, make sure your bougainvillea plant is well-watered but not overwatered. Overwatering causes the plant to lose leaves, wilt or not flower. Overwatering may also cause bougainvillea plant to die from root rot.
Zone: The bougainvillea plant is hardy to Zone 9 and must be overwintered indoors in colder climates.
Fertilizer: Fertilize your bougainvillea plant often.
Pests and Diseases: Bougainvillea usually does not have any problems with insect pests or diseases, but worms, snails and aphids may attack this container plant.
Propagation: Propagate the bougainvillea plant with tip cuttings.
Misc. Info: Bougainvillea plants can grow rather large, so it must be kept small in plant containers with heavy pruning and periodic root trimming. You can train your bougainville plant a to grow vertically up a trellis or grown in the shape of a tree.
