Bougainvillea 'Bush Orange'

Bougainvillea is an explosive bloomer when grown under stress. It demands full sun and resents overwatering. In fact, keeping the plant slightly on the dry side is the secret to forcing massive blooms. The root system is extremely fragile, so take great care not to disturb the rootball when planting. Prune heavily in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and encourage new growth (where the flowers form). Watch out for long, sharp thorns when pruning. Fertilize with a bloom-boosting (high phosphorus) fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.