Question
Hi Tom;
 I have had some luck rooting Boug. form soft cuttings.  I have provided bottom heat and had about 40-50% success.  I am wondering if they can be air layered or put into another container while still attached to the plant.  Like azalea or rhodo? Also I have read that the only time to root Bougs is in the spring.  I have a greenhouse and am wondering if  I can try this in the fall.  I live in N.Va. zone 7.

Answer
Hi William,
Layering is a great way to propagate Bougainvillea, one of my favorite tropical/subtropical shrubs.  You just scrape some of the first layer of tissue on a long piece of the plant hanging low to the ground, get a pot of good, moist potting soil, put the bruised end in contact with the soil in the pot and cover the stem.  Place a rock on top to keep the branch from coming loose.  In a good 8 weeks you should have root.  I don't think it would hurt to try in the fall if you have a heated greenhouse otherwise wait until spring.  I hope this helps.
Tom