Bougainvillea on a trellis
When it comes to planting Bougainvillea on a trellis, choosing the right location is crucial for the health and growth of this vibrant and beautiful plant. Here are some key points to consider when deciding where to plant your Bougainvillea:
1. Sunlight Exposure
Bougainvillea thrives in full sunlight, so it is important to choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Placing your trellis in a spot with ample sunlight will ensure that your Bougainvillea blooms profusely and remains healthy.
2. Wind Protection
While Bougainvillea loves sunlight, it is also important to protect it from strong winds. Planting your Bougainvillea trellis in a location that is sheltered from strong winds will prevent damage to the delicate branches and flowers.
3. Well-Drained Soil
Bougainvillea thrives in well-drained soil, so it is essential to choose a planting location with good drainage. Avoid areas where water tends to pool or where the soil becomes waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
4. Vertical Support
Since Bougainvillea is a climbing plant that requires support to grow vertically, planting it near a trellis or other vertical structure is ideal. Make sure the trellis is sturdy and can support the weight of the plant as it grows and matures.
5. Adequate Space
When planting Bougainvillea on a trellis, ensure that there is enough space for the plant to grow and spread out. Avoid planting it too close to other plants or structures, as Bougainvillea can become quite large and bushy over time.
By considering these factors when choosing a location to plant your Bougainvillea on a trellis, you can ensure that your plant thrives and adds a burst of color to your outdoor space. With the right care and attention, your Bougainvillea will reward you with stunning blooms and lush foliage for years to come.
Training a bougainvillea
1. Set a Sturdy Framework
- Select "Structural" Canes: Identify 3–6 strong main stems to serve as your permanent framework.
- Horizontal or Diagonal Placement: Instead of training stems straight up, angle them horizontally or diagonally across your desired area. This encourages lateral shoots, which are what produce the flowers.
- Use Heavy Support: As it matures, bougainvillea becomes extremely heavy and can break flimsy wood. Use a robust metal or heavy-duty trellis for long-term stability.
2. Manually Secure Growth
- Tie as it Grows: Use soft, flexible materials like garden twine, fabric strips, or Velcro ties to attach stems to the trellis.
- Avoid Tight Knots: Leave room for the stems to thicken so the ties do not "girdle" or choke the plant.
- Redirect Stems: Tuck any stray stems back into the trellis or through the existing vegetation to keep the plant compact and within your intended area.
3. Prune Strategically
- Pinch for Density: Pinch off the soft growing tips of new shoots to force the plant to branch out, creating a fuller look in a specific spot.
- Remove "Chaos" Early: Prune away any branches growing away from the trellis or toward paths before they become thick and thorny.
- Focus Energy: During the training phase, remove flower buds to help the plant devote its energy to vine length rather than blooms.
4. Maintenance for Success
- Sunlight: Ensure the area receives at least 6 hours of direct sun; otherwise, the plant will become "leggy" (sparse) as it stretches toward light.
- Seasonal Shaping: Hard pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before the new growth cycle begins.
These resources offer advice on selecting strong supports and manually guiding bougainvillea vines to grow in a desired direction.