If your bougainvillea sheds leaves, that's not a problem to a certain extent - but if the leaf loss becomes massive, it is. Read here what the plant may be missing and what measures you can take.
Bougainvillea sheds its leaves can have different causes
What Bougainvillea needs for healthy growth
As a child of the subtropical Andes region between Ecuador and Brazil, the bougainvillea is an incredibly light and warmth-hungry creature. In addition, it is used to a constant change between dry and rainy seasons and therefore reacts sensitively to watering. Basically, even in pot culture in our latitudes, it needs as much sun, light and an attentive water supply as possible, which avoids both waterlogging and long periods of drought.
Basically don't forget:
- Bougainvillea likes a lot of sun and warmth
- Water carefully, avoid drying out and waterlogging
Which can lead to critical leaf loss
Too cool and too dark?
If your bougainvillea sheds its leaves excessively, it is usually due to insufficient light and warmth. So towards autumn it is quite normal and not bad if it loses its leaves - for the hibernation this is even good, since it is supposed to shut down its vitality to dormant mode. However, if the climbing plant shows massive leaf loss during the vegetation phase, a location that is too dark or too cool can be to blame.
Too dry or too wet?
Also check that the root ball is always moist and that the water is not standing in the saucer. In both cases, the bougainvillea can actually protest in the long run.
lack of food?
With the loss of leaves, the bougainvillea can also simply indicate a lack of food - treat it to a little fertilizer.
pot too narrow/damaged roots?
Of course, a pot that has become too narrow also inhibits the growth of the bougainvillea. Repotting and more space for root formation and universal substance build-up can therefore be helpful in the event of leaf loss. But be careful with the somewhat sensitive root ball when repotting - damaged roots can also severely affect the plant.
diseases/pests
In general, the bougainvillea is rather resistant to pest infestation. In the event of prolonged drought or great heat and also in the winter quarters, it can definitely get spider mites, scale insects or powdery mildew. In this case, the reason for the loss of leaves should be clear - then treat the plant with a remedy that you add to the irrigation water.