- 1). Remove 1/3 to 3/4 of the length of any stem that is growing outside of the designated planting location. Make cuts right below a healthy growing bud at a 45-degree downward angle.
- 2). Cut off any portions of the plant that appear diseased or damaged. Signs that a bougainvillea bush has a diseased area include leaf discoloration, fungal growth or leaf spots. Clean bypass shears with a mixture of 70 percent denatured alcohol and 30 percent water in between cuts to prevent spreading any diseases.
- 3). Prune off dead stems or parts of the plant that are not producing any blossoms. Dead stems look discolored or brown.
- 4). Pinch off tips of stems to encourage two to three new shoots. Encouraging new shoots on the bougainvillea bush creates a dense plant with bright blossoms.
- 5). Clean up the debris underneath the bougainvillea plant. Plant debris presents a hospitable environment for diseases and pests. Place any portions of the plant not infected with a disease in the compost or throw away.
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