Helping a Transplanted Bougainvillea Recover from Shock

Patience and Proper Watering After Planting

A San Antonio gardener's newly ground-planted bougainvillea dropped most blooms. It gets full afternoon sun.

Expert Reassurance

Nick says this is classic transplant shock. Leave it alone, water weekly (no more), ensure plenty of sun. It will send out a new flush of growth and blooms. Bougainvilleas are resilient but sensitive to environmental changes.

Key Rule

Weekly deep watering, full sun, minimal fertilizer—especially avoid high nitrogen.