What is the best way to prune bouganvilla?

Question

We planted some bouganvilla to cover up a plain outside wall of our house. It has grown outward in long vines. What is the best way to prune it to make it bush out and bloom? Should it come up over a structure and cascade or can it grow like a large bush and still bloom?

Answer 1

you don't always have to cut it back. bougainvillea will climb a wall or fence if you give them something to hang on to. just tie them back and you bougainvillea bush will look fuller and it will look as is it has more blooms.

to tie it back use those wire twisty ties like you find on bread. you can buy these on large rolls from a wal-mart, home-depot, k-mart, or any other store with a gardening section.

when you tie them back, be careful of the thorns because they can get to be 3-4 inches long (and sharp) on an old plant

Answer 2

Here's info about pinching and pruning BOUGAINVILLEA.

http://www.bgi-usa.com/bougainvillea-res...

Answer 3

If you insist on cutting it, you can cut it back as far as you like, it should continue to bloom and spread.