Overwintering Bougainvillea Indoors in NYC

Bougainvillea Winter Care: Bright Light, Dry Soil, Minimal Stress

NYC terrace bougainvillea moved indoors for winter: expect leaf drop, manage for survival.

Indoor Protocol

• Light: Sunniest window (south). Move outdoors on warm days (>55°F) for unfiltered sun.
• Water: Only when soil dry 2–3" down. Bougainvillea hates wet feet.
• Humidity: Mist occasionally—indoor air is dry.
• Pruning: Only dead wood. Save major pruning for spring.
• Temperature: 50–65°F ideal. Cooler = more dormant = less stress.

Expected Response

• Leaf/bract drop: normal adjustment
• Stems stay green = alive
• Spring: hard prune, repot if needed, move out gradually

Key Insight

Bougainvillea doesn't "thrive" indoors—it survives. Goal: keep roots alive until spring return.