With their rich bract colors, bougainvilleas can present a wonderful spectacle of color on balcony railings and garden walls. In order to thrive and get a full flower yield from the tropical climbing plant, however, careful pot-keeping including regular repotting is necessary.

Bougainvillea needs enough space to thrive

Reasons for repotting bougainvillea

The Bougainvillea is not only considered relatively difficult to cultivate because of its decorative but sensitive bracts. Its base is also rather delicate and sensitive and makes the somewhat diva-like character of the Andean plant perfect. The right pot size and the right substrate is therefore essential to really enjoy Bougainvillea. You should carry out a pot check about every 2 to 3 years in order to optimally guide growth and flowering.

So let's hold on:

  • rather sensitive root ball of bougainvillea wants to be cared for
  • Regular repotting promotes good growth
  • the right pot size promotes flowering
  • Repot about every 2 to 3 years

Repot regularly to the desired growth size

In general, the 2- to 3-year repotting frequency applies to the growth phase of the plant. Once your bougainvillea is a desired size, or if you don't want it to get any bigger, you can check its root ball at these intervals too - but all you need to do is give it a makeover in the form of some pruning with a knife, but you do need it not put in a larger pot.

Best to repot in spring

Not only the frequency, but of course also the time of year is to be considered for the successful, profitable repotting of the bougainvillea. If you notice that your Andean plant is getting too crowded in the pot, consider repotting next spring. Then, when more light is available again, it easily enters a strong vegetation phase, which a freshening treatment at the base can only do best.

Small pot size for more flowering joy

Basically, it is advisable to keep the root ball tight with a rather small pot in order to stimulate the formation of flowers. If the root ball has too much room, the bougainvillea will focus more on its growth and will be busy working on its base. If you want more of her lush blooms, give her less room for rooting. Then she shifts more to the formation of the colorful flowers. When repotting, the new pot should not be too much larger than the old one.

Proceed carefully!

As in all other care areas, the bougainvillea is also rather sensitive when repotting. It forms a rather incoherent, not particularly robust root ball, which it is important not to damage. If it's already a bit attached to the inside of the pot, avoid rough handling anyway. Instead of tugging impatiently at the bale, you should cut or break the pot when in doubt. Because a root injury, the Bougainvillea can hold you grudges due to reduced growth and weak flowers.

Category:

Indoor plants