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Bougainvillea problem

forumpQCMoEduforumpQCMoEdu Posts: 1
in Plants
Hi I'm really hoping someone can advice me we brought a house in France about 9 months ago and the Bougainvillea looked fantastic on the side of the house and very established and been there for many years. Since we have been looking after the garden it has gradually looked poorly. I'm not sure if it is being over watered and if so will it recover. I love the plant so much but scared I have killed it. Would really appreciate some help



Posts

  • Jenny_AsterJenny_Aster Posts: 945
    edited February 2022
    They're vicious plants with extremely sharp and hard thorns - you'll need thick protective gloves on when handling. Don't let your dog chew on their sticks though.



    They are beautiful plants though and yours does look rather special on the side of your house. 

    What are your neighbours plants like? Maybe it's 'resting' time for the plant? The flowers are not much to look at but the colourful bracts are amazing. 

    Sorry I can't help you further. We found the plants too messy (especially if you have a swimming pool) and eventually we got rid of them when we were living in Spain.
    Trying to be the person my dog thinks I am! 

    Cambridgeshire/Norfolk border.
  • NollieNollie Posts: 7,529
    Bougainvilleas do need pruning every year or two to de-tangle and keep them in check, rake/prune out the old growth and debris that collects in there and encourage a better display of their colourful bracts. They don’t have high water needs, so it’s possible you are overwatering, but they can also suffer badly in winter frosts, prolonged drought and strong, drying winds. Could any of those apply?

    It is winter though, they may have a long season but they are not evergreen nor everblooming so unless you are in a balmy coastal area, they will naturally be looking a bit tired now, so @Jenny_Aster is probably spot on there and I too would have a nosey at the neighbour’s plants. Don’t be afraid to seek their advice either, most gardeners are very happy to share their knowledge and it’s a good way to break the ice 😊 
    Mountainous Northern Catalunya, Spain. Hot summers, cold winters.
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