The Bougainvillea plant originated in South America. The natural habitat of Bougainvillea plants is a warm climate, which usually relates to Zones 10 and 11.
However, in colder climates, such as Zone 9 or lower, bougainvillea plants require winter protection to prevent damage from frost.
A bougainvillea bonsai is an easy bonsai tree to care for. For this reason, it is usually one of the plants recommended for bonsai beginners. Continue reading Bougainvillea Bonsai care. Also please read seasonal bonsai care to keep your bonsai healthy round the year.
A winter arrives, and the night temperatures start falling below 64°F (18°C), This plant will enter dormancy.
This is the time of year when the leaves turn yellow and fall. Additionally, the flowers will dry and fall after a few days. When the next season begins, the plant will be ready to bloom again.
Tips for taking care of Bougainvillea Bonsai in Winter
As far as taking care of Bougainvillea bonsai in winter is concerned, there isn’t much to do. Its not as tricky as taking care of Japanese maple bonsai in winter. However, the following pointers will help ensure your bonsai stays healthy:
- In the winter, try and keep the Bougainvillea bonsai in a temperature range of 46-59°F (8-15°C). The plant will not tolerate temperatures below 45°F.
- This plant is hardy and requires less water even in the growing season. In winter, reduce watering to a minimum. Only water when the plant when the soil is dry.
- Water only when the soil has completely dried. There may be times when the surface of the soil appears dried. Therefore, do not assume that the soil is dry. Put your finger inside the soil about an inch deep. It is time to water the plant if the soil is dry there as well.
- Even if the plant is in its dormant state, its essential to expose the Bougainvillea plant to as much sunlight as possible.
- If you are living in colder climates, or in this case, zone 9 or below, overwinter the bonsai indoors in a heated greenhouse, conservatory, or house. This is essential for the plant’s survival in cold climates.
- If you are keeping the plant indoors, keep the bonsai in a south facing window. Read best locations to keep a bonsai tree for more details.
- You can even use artificial lights for keeping the tree indoor. Bougainvillea plant when grown in indoor settings, will need a light level of at least 2000 LUX. Read Using artificial lights to grow bonsai indoors for more details.
- During dormancy in winter , the plant should not be fertilized.
- Also, stop fertilizing the plant as you are approaching the dormancy period. Or else the plant will be still active in winter. By not fertilizing the plant well before the winter season, you are letting the plant enter dormancy at the right time.
- You can use the fallen leaves as mulch for the soil. This will protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
- As the dormancy period is coming to an end, start reintroducing bougainvillea plants to outdoor conditions. However, it’s important to acclimate them gradually to prevent leaf scorching.
Can bougainvillea bonsai survive winter outdoors?
While bougainvillea bonsai is typically more suited to warm climates, it can tolerate cooler temperatures during winter. However, in regions with severe winter conditions, it’s best to provide some form of protection or move the bonsai indoors.
How often should I water my bougainvillea bonsai during winter?
Watering frequency during winter should be reduced compared to the growing season. Wait for the soil to dry out before watering. The watering frequency will vary depending on the local climate. Hence, there is no set number of times the plant should be water. Perform “finger test”. The finger test involves sticking your finger almost an inch into the soil. Water the plant if the soil feels dry.
There is no better or simpler technique than this. There is no need for a hygrometer.
Can I prune my bougainvillea bonsai during winter?
Yes. However, avoid heavy pruning that may weaken the bonsai during the colder months.
Trim back any dead or overgrown branches, shape the tree, and pinch back new growth to encourage branching.
Remember that this plant produces more flower in the next season on new branches.
Should I fertilize my bougainvillea bonsai in winter?
No.
How can I protect my bougainvillea bonsai from pests during winter?
Regularly inspect your bougainvillea bonsai for signs of pest infestation, such as distorted leaves or sticky residue.
Treat any infestation promptly using suitable insecticides or insecticidal soaps.
Ensure good airflow, maintain proper humidity levels, and keep the foliage clean to prevent pest issues.
Please refer to bonsai pest and diseases identification and treatment and best practices to keep your bonsai pest free for more details.
