Bougainvillea Yellowing in Arizona Heat: Overwatering and Sunburn

Diagnosis

A potted bougainvillea in Arizona (118°F days) watered nightly shows yellow leaves and leafcutter bee holes.

Primary Issue: Overwatering

Daily watering in extreme heat keeps soil saturated, causing root rot and yellowing. Bougainvilleas prefer dry conditions.

Secondary Issue: Afternoon Sunburn

South-facing exposure in 118°F exceeds heat tolerance.

Corrective Plan

1. Move to location shaded by 2 PM.
2. Water deeply only when soil is dry halfway down the pot.
3. Then wait several days before checking again.
4. Do not fertilize until recovery.