Bougainvillea plants are known for their vibrant and showy blooms that can add a splash of color to any garden or outdoor space. They are popular among gardeners and landscaping professionals for their hardiness and low maintenance requirements. However, there are some lesser-known secrets about these plants that can help you get the most out of your bougainvillea plants. In this blog post, we will explore three bougainvillea plant secrets you never knew.
Bougainvillea Plants Love Neglect
Contrary to popular belief, bougainvillea plants do not require much attention or care to thrive. In fact, they prefer to be left alone most of the time. These plants are incredibly resilient and can tolerate neglect, drought, and poor soil conditions. Bougainvillea plants do best in full sun, so make sure to plant them in a location where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, bougainvillea plants are heavy feeders, so it’s a good idea to fertilize them regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
Bougainvillea Plants Have Thorns
While bougainvillea plants are known for their beautiful blooms, they also have a more prickly side. Bougainvillea plants are covered in thorns, which can be painful if you accidentally brush up against them. If you have small children or pets, it’s important to keep this in mind when planting bougainvillea in your garden. You can also prune the thorny branches to reduce the risk of injury.
Bougainvillea Plants Are Not True Vines
Despite their climbing habit, bougainvillea plants are not true vines. They do not have tendrils or adhesive pads that allow them to attach to structures like true vines do. Instead, bougainvillea plants have long, flexible branches that can be trained to climb up trellises or walls. To encourage climbing, you can tie the branches loosely to a support structure and prune them to shape as they grow.
Conclusion
Bougainvillea plants are a stunning addition to any garden or outdoor space. They are low maintenance, hardy, and incredibly resilient. However, it’s important to remember that they have thorns and are not true vines. By keeping these secrets in mind, you can ensure that your bougainvillea plants thrive and continue to add color and beauty to your garden for years to come.
