Bougainvillea Leaf Yellowing in Summer: Water & Light Fixes

A potted bougainvillea flowering well but losing yellow leaves in early summer (New Zealand) likely needs more water and sun, not less.

Seasonal Care Adjustment

• Summer (outdoors): Water daily in full sun above 50°F (10°C). They thrive in heat and light.
• Fertilize: Monthly with balanced fertilizer.
• Winter (indoors): Reduce watering significantly; keep cool and bright.

Key Insight

Nursery advice to "avoid overwatering" applies to winter dormancy. In active summer growth, bougainvilleas are heavy drinkers. Yellowing often signals underwatering or insufficient light.

Move to the sunniest outdoor spot, increase watering frequency, and feed monthly. Leaves should green up as new growth emerges.