Bougainvillea - Shrubs/Climber

Remarkable brilliantly coloured bracts decorate these tropical and sub-tropical flowering shrubs and scramblers. The flowers are generally insignificant. Bougainvilleas can be grown in a conservatory or greenhouse usually in large pots on a framework of wire or canes. Where space is available, however, the plants can be grown very successfully in a greenhouse border and trained up into the roof. All enjoy full sun and require a minimum night temperature of 10ºC (50ºF).

Cultivation
All bougainvilleas thrive in full sun in a free draining, soil based compost. For pot culture use John Innes Nº 3 compost. Water freely during the summer months, but very sparingly in winter. Use a high nitrogen liquid feed in spring and change to a high potash one when flowering begins. Bougainvilleas are not self clinging and must be tied to their supports.

Propogation
Take semi ripe cuttings of non flowering wood in summer, or hardwood cuttings during winter.

Pruning
Cut back the previous season's lateral growths in spring; only spurs up to 3cm long should remain.

Pests and Diseases
Greenfly, whitefly, red spider and mealy bug are all common pest problems. Mildew too, can sometimes cause trouble.

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