Bougainvillea Wilting Daily? Soil Drainage May Be the Culprit

Glenn in Santa Barbara planted a 5-gallon red bougainvillea in full sun with 50% planting mix. If not watered every morning, new growth went limp by afternoon, perking up after watering. He pruned lower branches. Why so fragile?

Initial Advice

Bougainvillea shouldn't need daily water. Prefers loamy, not sandy soil—maybe too well-drained. Adapts to hot sun; water deeply when you do. Thrives in humid tropics.

Follow-Up

Soil is clay-based but amended. Still limps daily. Expert suspects soil issue. Recommended article on Santa Barbara soil and contacting the author (expert is in cold north/hot humid south, not familiar with local conditions).