Bougainvillea Violet September

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot / Growbag Included | Secure Packing 

The Bougainvillea Violet September is a stunning variety, known for its deep violet-purple bracts that create a magnificent display. Like other bougainvilleas, it’s a vigorous and relatively low-maintenance plant, provided you give it the right conditions.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for your Bougainvillea ‘Violet September’:

1. Sunlight:

• Absolute full sun is essential. Bougainvilleas are sun-loving plants. For the most abundant blooms, your ‘Violet September’ needs at least 6 hours of direct, intense sunlight daily.
• If it’s not getting enough sun, the plant will prioritize growing leaves over flowers, resulting in a thin, leggy appearance with few blooms.

2. Watering:

• Water deeply, but infrequently. Bougainvillea thrives on a bit of “drought stress” once it’s established. This stress encourages blooming.
• Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out completely before you water again. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot and poor flowering.
• During the establishment phase (the first 1-2 years), water more regularly to help the plant develop a strong root system.
• In India’s hot summer months, you may need to water daily if the plant is in a pot. In winter, watering can be reduced to every 10-14 days, or when the soil is completely dry.

3. Soil and Potting:

• Excellent drainage is non-negotiable. Bougainvillea does not tolerate soggy soil.
• Use a well-draining, sandy-loam soil mix. Adding sand or crushed bricks to the potting mix can improve drainage.
• If growing in a container, choose a pot with multiple drainage holes. Bougainvilleas actually bloom better when they are slightly root-bound, so a pot that is a bit snug for the plant is often a good thing.

4. Fertilization:

• Fertilize sparingly, and with the right formula. Too much nitrogen will result in lush green leaves but very few flowers.
• Use a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer to encourage blooming. Organic options like bone meal or banana peel compost work well.
• A single application of a slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season (spring) is usually sufficient. You can also feed with a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the blooming season.

5. Pruning:

• Prune after a major bloom cycle. This is a crucial step to encourage new growth, which is where the next set of blooms will appear.
• You can also perform a heavy “structural” prune in late winter or early spring before the plant begins its new growth spurt.
• Pinching back the tips of new growth can lead to a denser, more abundant display of bracts.
• Caution: Bougainvilleas have sharp thorns. Always wear thick gloves and long sleeves when pruning.

6. Climate and Hardiness:

• ‘Violet September’ is a tropical plant, thriving in hot climates (USDA Zones 9-11). It loves heat and can handle temperatures over 100°F (38°C).
• It is sensitive to frost and must be protected or moved indoors during winter in colder regions.

7. Other Tips:

• Training and Support: Bougainvilleas are climbers and need a sturdy structure like a trellis, wall, or pergola to grow on. They don’t have tendrils, so you’ll need to gently tie the stems to the support as they grow.
• Pest Resistance: Bougainvilleas are generally pest and disease-resistant. However, watch out for common pests like aphids and mealybugs on new growth.