Question
QUESTION: Is Bouglavilla a perennial?  I live in Coastal South Carolina and the plant is now without leaves, but it looks like I am seeing signs of possible buds.  What do  you think?   Nancy

ANSWER: Dear Nancy,

Firstly, please allow me to apologize for the delay in answering. For some reason I did not get your question until this morning.  I know how frustrating it can be to lack information, so please allow me to answer your question now.

Bougainvillea is most certainly a perennial. And it is native to the coast of Brazil, so you have the perfect location for it. They are hardy throughout the south. Young growth however, can be damaged by frost. A light frost won抰 kill it, but it does make the leaves and bracts fall off. What you are seeing is the regrowth, which is just wonderful.  Just make sure that it does not get exposed to frosts again.

Best conditions are warm days (70 to 85 degrees) and cool nights (60 degrees to 70 degrees).
If you have any more questions about this terrific plant, please don抰 hesitate to write again.

Happy growing,

Donna


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do I need to fertilize?  If so, which type of fertilizer is best for the Bougainvillea?

Answer
Hello again, Nancy!  Nice to hear from you!

Bougainvillea are heavy feeders that require either regular fertilization, or timed release fertilization.  Nitrogen and phosphate are important ingredients in the fertilizer you choose, but it抯 most important not to use one with too much nitrogen. Too much nitrogen encourages lots of lush green growth but fewer flowers. So you don't want to use a balanced fertilizer (12-12-12, for example), which will provide too much nitrogen. Look for one with a 6-8-10 ratio, and some extra iron (which makes the flowers bright). If you can find a time released fertilizer with approximately those levels, it would be easiest. There is also a fertilizer called Bougain that will fit the bill. If the fertilizer is not time released, then fertilize once a month. If you use a time released fertilizer, apply it when your plant look 搕ired? which would be a sign that the baby needs more food.

Is this clear? As always, feel free to write again.