The real star of the show when it comes to Bougainvillea (sometimes called Paperflower) is that explosion of vibrant color. Since these beauties put so much energy into creating a literal sea of flowers all summer long, it’s no surprise they need a little extra “fuel” to keep the performance going.
When should you fertilize?
You’ll want to feed your Bougainvillea during its active growth and blooming phase. You can start with some light feeding as early as March or April, especially if your plant is being a bit stubborn and won’t sprout after the winter. However, the real “feeding season” kicks off in June. Once those first blooms appear, your potted Bougainvillea will be very grateful for the extra nutrients.
When it’s time for winter storage, stop the fertilizer completely. You want the plant to rest during the cold months, not push out new growth. I usually stop all feeding by the end of August to let the plant wind down.
If you prefer using slow-release fertilizers, the best time to add them is while repotting by mixing them directly into the soil. If you go this route, you’re set for the season—don’t add any more fertilizer until next year, or you might risk overfeeding.
How often?
Slow-release fertilizers are great because they’re “set it and forget it” for several months. If you’re using liquid or water-soluble options, you’ll want to apply them every one to two weeks. The golden rule here is consistency: regular, light feedings are much better than one giant dose. Over-fertilizing can actually stress your potted Bougainvillea, so stick to a steady schedule.
What kind of fertilizer is best?
If you’re looking for organic, slow-release options to mix into your soil, these work wonders:
- Horn shavings or meal
- Well-aged compost (horse manure compost is a favorite)
If you prefer a standard fertilizer, look for an N-P-K ratio close to this:
- 7 parts Nitrogen
- 8 parts Phosphate
- 6 parts Potassium
Since phosphate is the secret ingredient for big, beautiful blooms, look for a mix where that middle number is slightly higher. Liquid fertilizers are usually the easiest to dose, but powders that dissolve in your watering can work just as well. Look for labels like:
- Container plant fertilizer
- Balcony or patio plant food
- Flowering plant fertilizer
- General all-purpose flower food
Pro tip: If you have access to stinging nettle tea (a classic fermented plant fertilizer), your Bougainvillea will absolutely love an occasional drink of that!
