Planting

• Bougainvillea plants need acidic, well-drained loam or sandy soil in to grow. It is a climbing plant, so it needs some type of sturdy structure for support. They also can be trained to stay in pots or hanging baskets. Add a soluble slow-release fertilizer to the soil in March and in August for best results.
  
  

Watering

• Once established, bougainvillea plants need very little water. Allow the soil to reach visual dryness between waterings, and don't allow the soil to become bone dry. Water slowly and thoroughly, making sure to get each bit of the roots saturated.
  
  

Pruning

• Pruning and general maintenance are important to the health and well-being of bougainvillea plants. Because this plant blooms only from new growth, it is important to prune away any old vines or shoots. Pruning also is needed so that the vines don't grow excessively. The best time to prune is after the flowering cycle is complete.