Optimal Fertilizers for Bougainvillea: Application Guidelines and Timing
In the world of gardening, Bougainvillea plants are known for their vibrant blooms and striking vines that can adorn walls and panels, creating a beautiful spectacle. These tropical plants require a balanced ratio of nutrients for abundant bloom, and organic fertilizers are an excellent choice for promoting healthy growth.
Organic fertilizers that provide a balanced nutrient supply, with higher phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) relative to nitrogen (N), are particularly beneficial for Bougainvillea plants. Compost, well-rotted manure, and compost teas, applied as liquid feeds every 1–2 weeks during the growing season, work wonders for these plants. These organic options supply nutrients gently, promote overall soil health, and support explosive blooms and vigorous leaf growth [2][3][4].
An ideal fertilizer ratio for Bougainvillea is one higher in phosphorus and potassium, such as 6-8-10 or 10-10-10 [1][5]. Organic versions of these can be derived from bone meal (high phosphorus), wood ash or kelp (high potassium), and composted manure (nitrogen and other nutrients).
Liquid organic fertilizers prepared with compost extracts or diluted compost teas efficiently deliver nutrients around the root zone and should be applied monthly or every 1–2 weeks at half strength to avoid overfeeding [2][4]. Regular pruning combined with organic liquid feeding encourages new leaf and flower bud production [2].
Homemade mixes combining organic compost, nitrogen sources like fish emulsion, and potassium-rich additions from seaweed or wood ash are also highly effective.
When it comes to commercial fertilizers, the market offers several types with balanced NPK ratios for Bougainvillea plants. For instance, Scotts Flower Slow Release Food 10-10-10 is an all-purpose fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio that feeds both flowers and vegetables and is a slow release formula that keeps feeding for 2 months. Jacks Classic No.1.5 Fertilizer 20-20-20 is a water soluble plant food that contains a balanced NPK ratio, essential micronutrients, and feeds both through roots and leaves.
Jobe's Camellia & Rhododendron Fertilizer Spikes 9-8-7 is a slow-release fertilizer with a high nitrogen content (9-8-7 NPK ratio) that is easy-to-use and feeds bougainvillea plants for 8 weeks. Jobes Fertilizer Spikes For Flowers 8-9-12 is a slow-release fertilizer with a high phosphorus content (8-9-12 NPK ratio) that is pre-measured and ready to insert in soil for use in potted bougainvillea plants.
The Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer, while designed for palm plants, is also effective for Bougainvillea. It contains additional beneficial soil microbes to encourage flowering of your precious Bougainvillea. However, the natural contents of the Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer can promote the growth of worms and undesirable insects when the environment contains moisture.
The Dr. Earth blend palm fertilizer is eco-friendly, OMRI listed, organic, non-GMO, and safe to use around children, pets, and people. It is available in 1 and 4 pounds packs and has an NPK value of 6-4-6, with high nitrogen content that enhances photosynthesis in tropical plants for a greener growth.
Remember, Bougainvillea plants are heavy feeders that instantly absorb all available nutrients in the soil and need regular replenishment to prevent decay. Regular application of the right organic fertilizer can help maintain the health and beauty of your Bougainvillea plants, ensuring a continuous display of their stunning blooms.
Organic fertilizers with a higher phosphorus and potassium ratio, such as 6-8-10 or 10-10-10, are particularly beneficial for promoting healthy growth and explosive blooms in Bougainvillea plants. Homemade organic fertilizer mixes combining compost, fish emulsion, and potassium-rich additions like seaweed or wood ash, applied monthly, can encourage new leaf and flower bud production in Bougainvillea plants.
