How to Cut Bougainvillea Growth Back to the Ground
- 1). Inspect the bougainvillea for dead vines after the last freeze in spring. Dead vines typically develop a darker, discolored appearance, have no living leaves, and are dry and brittle to the touch.
- 2). Cut back the dead vines at ground level with a sharp pair of shears. If the majority of the bougainvillea is dead or badly damaged, cut all the vines back to ground level.
- 3). Trim back any remaining vines to within 1/4 inch of a leaf on the healthy part of the vine, removing only the frost damaged portion. Leaving some surviving vines on the plant when you cut it back helps ensure a full flower display the next winter.
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