Bougainvillea-Pink

Grows best in full sun or light shade in well-drained, acid soils. Bougainvillea can tolerate hot, dry locations fairly well and flowers bountifully in full sun with regular watering. Chlorosis can be a problem in alkaline soil. Regular pruning may be necessary to shape the plant or direct its growth, it tolerates trimming well. Be careful when pruning to avoid injury from the 1 to 2 inch long thorns. In zones 5 and lower , to bring bougainvillea into flower, a dormant period at a low temperature is essential in winter. The plant will drop most of its leaves and you should stop fertilizing. From March on, it must be given a well-lit, warm position. Late in May, it is best placed outdoors. If pruning is required this should be done immediately after flowering. Pinching the tips of new growth will encourage branching. Water freely in summer and sparingly in the winter. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season.