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Fertilizing, Not Stressing, Bougainvillea for Blooms

Transplant Shock, Not Water Stress, Limits Flowers

New Bougainvillea: bloomed at planting, now no flowers, lush leaves. Advised to "stress" by withholding water—didn't work. Asks if pruning stresses for bloom.

Correct Approach

Pruning does NOT induce flowering.
Apply high-potash (K) fertilizer.
Water regularly.
Buds set on new growth in 4–6 weeks.

Why Stress Fails

Bougainvillea blooms on new growth. Stress stalls growth. Fertilizer + water = vigorous new shoots = flowers.

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