Give your garden a boost of bold colour and Mediterranean feels with an ever-faithful bougie – or three.
Plant them as hedges or screens for privacy and security, thanks to their thorny nature. Or, plant low-growing varieties as vibrant borders and edging. If you’re working with limited space, bougies thrive in pots and hanging baskets, adding bright splashes of colour to patios, balconies and poolside areas. Here are more tips from Builders:
Where to plant them: Bougies love full sun and well-drained soil. While they thrive in warm, subtropical climates and can tolerate drought, they can also grow in frost-prone areas if protected with frost cover during colder months.
Planting tip: Keep the growth bag or pot on the plant when planting to prevent any damage to their delicate root systems. Simply cut slits in the sides of the bag or pot using a craft knife and plant the entire bag or pot in the soil or container. The roots will find their way out naturally without the risk of damage.
For more blooms, feed with a high-potassium fertilizer, like a 3:1:5 mix, during spring, summer and autumn. When it comes to watering, less is more, as too much water encourages more foliage instead of flowers. Water potted bougainvilleas every two weeks. In sub-tropical areas, garden plants can rely on rainfall, while dry regions should water once every three weeks.
Training bougies: They are not naturally clingy, so they’ll need support as they grow, whether you use stakes, a trellis or a pergola.
- Stakes: Plant in a sunny spot, ensuring the bougie is level with the soil or container. Position two stakes about 300 – 500 mm away from the main stem to help support the trunk. Gently attach the stems to the stakes using soft twine or a piece of stocking, making sure not to tie them too tightly to avoid damaging the plant.
- Trellises or pergolas: For larger bougies, trellises or pergolas provide the perfect support, allowing the plant to grow into a beautiful, arching display. Plant the bougainvillea close to the support structure and train the stems by loosely tying them to the trellis or pergola as they grow.
As they grow bigger, guide the new shoots around the support structure, securing them in place as needed. Regularly trim any stray branches to maintain a neater shape and encourage a fuller, bushier appearance.
For a tree shape: Stake the central stem and allow the top growth to form a beautiful umbrella or canopy. Pinch back the tips often to encourage a fuller, well-shaped crown.
