Most Effective Bougainvillea Fertilizers: Timing and Application Methods Explained
The beautiful Bougainvillea plant, known for its vibrant, colourful bracts, thrives best under the right care. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you cultivate a flourishing Bougainvillea.
Bougainvillea blooms optimally with six hours of full sun exposure. This tropical plant is a heavy feeder and requires intensive food to grow, so using fertilizers is inevitable for best blooming of bougainvillea vines.
When it comes to fertilizers, the best options are those rich in phosphorus and potassium but low in nitrogen. This balance promotes blooming rather than excessive leafy growth. Compost or well-rotted manure, organic granular fertilizers formulated for flowering plants, homemade liquid fertilizers like compost teas or diluted organic fish emulsion, and balanced organic fertilizers with a ratio like 4-6-3 (N-P-K) are all effective choices.
A practical regimen is to feed Bougainvilleas every one to two weeks in the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble organic fertilizer at half strength, with an occasional application of compost or organic granular fertilizer in spring. Dr. Earth Organic & Natural MINI Exotic Blend Palm fertilizer, with an NPK value of 6-4-6, is a top choice due to its high potassium content that enhances photosynthesis in tropical plants for greener growth.
It's important to note that Bougainvillea needs to be pruned twice a year; in late winters and early spring time before new buds start to grow. The plant is a vast climber that requires support to grow, and its vines spread across walls or panels. However, it cannot tolerate high levels of water for long hours.
Bougainvillea is available in 1 and 4 pounds packs, and is OMRI listed, organic, non-GMO, and safe to use around children, pets, and people. With the right care, you can enjoy the stunning blooms of this beautiful plant throughout the year.
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| Fertilizer Type | Benefits for Bougainvillea | Application Tips | |-------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------| | Compost / Well-rotted manure | Gradual nutrient release, soil improvement | Apply 1-2 inches in spring as top dressing | | Organic granular fertilizer | Balanced nutrients with beneficial microbes | Use sparingly, follow label for flowering plants| | Homemade liquid fertilizer (compost tea/fish emulsion) | Quick nutrient boost for blooms | Apply every 1-2 weeks during growing season | | Organic 4-6-3 or similar NPK ratio | Phosphorus-rich to boost flower production | Use diluted, to avoid excess nitrogen | | Dr. Earth Organic & Natural MINI Exotic Blend Palm fertilizer | Encourages flowering with additional beneficial soil microbes | Add a limited amount, not more than one tablespoon mixed in 1 gallon of water |
To ensure the vigorous growth and stunning blooms of your Bougainvillea, a balanced fertilizer with a high phosphorus and potassium content is recommended. Options like compost, well-rotted manure, organic granular fertilizers for flowering plants, homemade liquid fertilizers, or balanced organic fertilizers with a rating like 4-6-3 (N-P-K) are all effective for optimizing your home-and-garden Bougainvillea's lifestyle.
