How to Grow Bougainvillea in Pots

Bougainvillea is a plant that transforms any space with its bright bracts and climbing growth. While many gardeners think of it as a sprawling climber for fences and walls, it actually thrives just as well in pots and containers. Growing bougainvillea in pots allows you to enjoy bursts of colour on patios, balconies, and courtyards, while also keeping the plant manageable. Success comes down to choosing the right pot, using free-draining soil, providing full sun, and keeping up with a steady fertiliser routine. With the correct setup, potted bougainvillea will produce impressive displays for years with very little fuss.

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil

Bougainvillea prefers to have its roots slightly restricted, making pots one of the best ways to grow it successfully. The container you choose directly influences how much the plant will grow and how often it will flower. If the pot is too large, bougainvillea tends to focus on root development instead of producing bracts. If it is too small, it can dry out too quickly and limit growth.

Pot size: A 40–50 cm pot is a good starting size for young plants. Terracotta is ideal because it is heavy and breathable, helping the soil dry between waterings. Plastic pots are easier to move but must have several drainage holes to avoid soggy roots.

Soil: The most important requirement is drainage. Bougainvillea roots will rot if kept wet. Use a premium potting mix blended for flowering plants, then add coarse sand or perlite to improve aeration. This creates a light, airy structure that roots can spread through without risk of compaction.

Drainage setup: Always raise the pot slightly off the ground using pot feet or bricks so water does not sit under the container. This small step greatly reduces the chance of root problems later.

486044172_18492630955056154_7589586112138090992_n (1)

488890811_18269781010260771_8161916205380131684_n (1)

Watering, Feeding, and General Care

Potted bougainvillea grows differently from in-ground plants because water and nutrients drain out much faster. This means you need a routine that keeps the plant supplied but never waterlogged.

Watering: Deep watering is best. Let the top few centimetres of soil dry out before watering again. This drying cycle encourages stronger roots and more flowers. In summer, you may need to water every 2–3 days, while in winter once a week is usually enough. If leaves begin to yellow or drop suddenly, it often signals overwatering rather than lack of water.

Feeding: Regular fertiliser is vital for container-grown bougainvillea. A balanced liquid fertiliser such as NPK 20-20-20 keeps the plant healthy and encourages continuous flowering. Mix at 4ml per litre of water and apply every 2–3 weeks during the growing season. This replaces the nutrients that quickly leach from potting soil. Strong potassium levels are especially important for vibrant bracts, so skipping feeds usually results in plenty of green leaves but very few flowers.

Sunlight: Full sun is essential. Bougainvillea in pots needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Plants kept in shade or partial shade will grow foliage but rarely produce the bright colour displays bougainvillea is known for.

503373426_18081976360827026_5681593711401405213_n (1)

503272358_18081976396827026_7056019917346805821_n (1)

Pruning, Repotting, and FAQs

Potted bougainvillea benefits from regular light pruning. After each flowering cycle, cut back stems by about one-third to encourage new shoots. These new shoots are the ones that will produce the next round of blooms. Shaping also keeps the plant balanced and prevents it from spilling too far out of its container.

Repotting: Bougainvillea likes to be root-bound, so don’t repot too often. Every 2–3 years is usually enough. When repotting, move up only one pot size and refresh the soil with a fresh, free-draining mix. Avoid planting into a pot that is too large, as this reduces flowering and slows growth.

After-pruning fertiliser: Once trimmed, support recovery with a balanced feed. CompleteGrow’s All Purpose Plant Liquid Fertiliser (NPK 20-20-20) at 4ml per litre of water is ideal for bougainvillea in pots, helping the plant bounce back with strong shoots and new bracts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can bougainvillea grow in pots permanently?
Yes. With the right care, bougainvillea can live in containers for many years. The key is good drainage, regular pruning, and consistent feeding.

How often should I water bougainvillea in pots?
In summer, usually every 2–3 days. In cooler months, about once a week. Always check the soil first and avoid constant wetness.

What is the best fertiliser for bougainvillea in pots?
A balanced liquid fertiliser such as NPK 20-20-20 keeps container plants healthy. Apply every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.

When should I repot bougainvillea?
Every 2–3 years, or when the roots begin circling tightly inside the pot. Move to the next size up and refresh the soil for best results.