Forcing Bougainvillea Bloom in South Florida

Why Bougainvillea Won't Bloom

Overwatering and overfertilizing (especially nitrogen) are the primary causes. Bougainvillea thrives on neglect: dry conditions, poor soil, full sun.

Corrective Pruning

• Prune hard—cut back by half—in late fall (November).
• This stimulates new growth that bears colorful bracts.
• Reduce irrigation to once weekly or less.
• Stop fertilizing; if needed, use low-N, high-P formula.

Miracle-Gro Damage

High-nitrogen fertilizer caused leaf drop. Flush soil with water, then follow the lean regimen above. Color returns with cooler nights.