Question
My tree is blooming on top but other than a few spotty leaves there is nothing in
the middle or on the bottom of the tree. It is in a sunny area and has been
fertilized. Last year it bloomed beautifully. Should it be trimmed back? Any
suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer
Hi Ron, Bougs need to be pruned every year to keep the middle open and devoid of dead wood; the reason your Boug is only showing its colorful bracts on the terminal ends is because of the congestion in the middle. Sunlight needs to permeate the entire plant to ensure a healthy growing pattern. When you prune your Boug, don't be shy about it, they respond very well to a good cutting back occasionally, but the fruits of your labor will not be evident until the following year. Nick