Bougainvillea Care Costa Blanca
If you live on the Costa Blanca and want a vibrant, flowering plant that thrives in the sun, look no further than the bougainvillea. This Mediterranean favourite adds a burst of colour to walls, fences, balconies and gardens — but to get the most from it, proper care is essential. At Handyman Costa Blanca, we offer expert advice and hands-on help to keep your garden looking its best.
Sunlight Requirements
Bougainvillea loves the sun! For the healthiest plant and the most colourful blooms, ensure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In shady areas, the plant may grow but won’t flower as vibrantly. South-facing walls and terraces on the Costa Blanca are ideal for bougainvillea.
Watering Tips
Despite its tropical look, bougainvillea is quite drought-tolerant. The key to watering is not to overdo it:
- Water deeply but infrequently once the soil is dry — typically every 7–10 days during hot months.
- In cooler months, reduce watering to once every few weeks.
- Avoid soggy soil as this can cause root rot and lead to weak flowering.
Pro tip: Allowing the plant to slightly dry out between waterings actually helps trigger blooming!
Pruning Bougainvillea
Regular pruning encourages fuller growth and repeat blooming. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Light pruning: After each flowering cycle, trim back about 25% of new growth to maintain shape.
- Hard pruning: In late winter (February/March), cut back more heavily to promote strong new shoots.
- Always use clean, sharp tools and cut just above a node or bud.
Pruning also helps control size and encourages a more compact, bushy appearance, ideal for terraces and smaller spaces.
Boosting Blooms
To get the most colour from your bougainvillea:
- Use a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer.
- Ensure the plant is slightly root-bound if in a pot — bougainvillea blooms more when slightly stressed.
- Don’t overwater — a little dryness helps push the plant into flowering mode.
Bougainvillea rewards the right balance of sun, water, and trimming with lush, vivid displays in pink, purple, orange, and white throughout the year.
Need Help with Your Garden?
At Handyman Costa Blanca, we don’t just handle building and repairs — we also offer professional gardening services, including bougainvillea planting, trimming, trellis fitting, and overall garden maintenance. If your bougainvillea is struggling or you’d like help installing one in the perfect sunny spot, we’re here to help across the Costa Blanca.
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Contact us today for friendly advice or to schedule regular gardening support. Let’s make your bougainvillea the most stunning feature in your garden!
