About 18 different types of plants belong to the bougainvillea genus, all native to South America and all capable of giving us a unique and wonderful show through their blooming.
These climbing shrubs can reach up to 12 meters in height and, depending on the climate, can bloom all year round. In a climate like ours, they bloom from spring until late fall.
Contrary to what it may seem, bougainvillea flowers are small and white, surrounded by bracts that take on different colors and have a paper-like texture.
Bougainvillea needs full sun in order to bloom properly. For this reason, this species should not be treated as an indoor bonsai tree.
Bougainvillea bonsai should be protected from frost and wind. In any case, do not be alarmed if the plant loses its leaves during the cold months-it is part of its life cycle.
Potting soil for bougainvillea bonsai.
Bougainvilleas have a very thin and sensitive root system, and therefore it is essential to use a porous and acidic potting soil
You can choose a solution consisting of akadama and add 30 percent kiryzuna or kanuma.
Watering the bougainvillea bonsai tree
Water when the potting soil begins to dry on the surface. It is important to keep the potting soil moist, but avoid waterlogging.
Remember to use osmosis water, as the presence of dissolved salts in the water could change the pH of the potting soil.
Pinching and pruning bougainvillea bonsai trees
Bougainvilleas are climbing shrubs and therefore have a tendency to form shoots at their apices, which in turn serve to cling to other trees.
To form the bonsai structure pinch more intensely on the acids, be able to distribute the “vigor” to the lower branches. Carry out pinching after flowering.
It is recommended to prune to two buds to strengthen the plant and stimulate the growth of new branches directly from the old trunk.
Wiring the bonsai tree
It is not recommended to over-wire a bougainvillea bonsai, as its branches break easily or may dry out from the wire.
In any case, do it on shoots that are still tender to give direction to their growth.
