This tropical plant, native to South America,is a very versatile vine. It can be grown indoors in hanging baskets, pots or as bonsais, as well as topiaries or along fences’ lines or walls. It is also a low-maintenance plant as it is drought-tolerant and usually pest-free.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Bougainvillea ‘New River’ is a hybrid variety cultivated from Bougainvillea species native to South America. It is an evergreen, climbing shrub that can reach heights of up to 10-20 feet when mature, although its size can be easily managed through regular pruning.
The standout feature of ‘New River’ is undoubtedly its striking magenta-pink bracts that surround the small, white, true flowers of the plant. These bracts are typically seen in clusters and are almost paper-like in texture, providing a dramatic display of color throughout the plant’s blooming season.
II. How to Grow and Care
This thorny plant prefers warm weather, but it can be grown in cooler climates without being affected by the dryness. Dry soil provides the best condition, along with frequent fertilization (monthly during spring and summer) and full sun. Excess watering can actually hinder the flourishing of the plant.
This hybrid cultivar is known for its dense growth habit, vigorous nature, and impressive adaptability. Here, we delve into a comprehensive guide on how to best care for this enchanting variety of Bougainvillea.
Sunlight
Like most Bougainvillea species, ‘New River’ prefers a full sun environment, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming. It can tolerate partial shade, but this may result in fewer blooms and less vibrant color.
Watering
Bougainvillea ‘New River’ is a drought-tolerant plant, capable of withstanding relatively dry conditions once established. The watering regimen for ‘New River’ is generally based on a “soak and dry” method, which entails watering the plant thoroughly, then allowing the soil to dry out before the next watering. Overwatering or consistently moist soil can lead to root diseases.
Soil
When it comes to soil, ‘New River’ is relatively adaptable. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide pH range, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. However, poor drainage can lead to root rot, a serious concern for Bougainvilleas, so ensure your plant has sufficient drainage whether it’s planted in-ground or in a container.
Fertilizing
As for fertilizing, ‘New River’ typically doesn’t require heavy feeding. If you choose to fertilize, do so during the blooming season with a high-phosphorus, low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote blooming and healthy growth. Over-fertilizing can lead to a proliferation of foliage at the expense of blooms.
Pruning
Pruning and training Bougainvillea ‘New River’ are key to maintaining its size, shape, and promoting vigorous blooming. Since Bougainvillea blooms on new growth, pruning stimulates the plant to produce more branches, leading to more flowers. Pruning should ideally be done in early spring before the onset of the blooming season.
‘New River’ responds well to training and can be shaped into various forms, including a hedge, a standard tree form, or a climbing vine over trellises or arches.
Planting Tips
When planting Bougainvillea Trellis New River Purple, make sure to choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant, and backfill with soil. Water the plant thoroughly after planting, and continue to water regularly until it becomes established.
Pests and Diseases
While Bougainvillea ‘New River’ is generally resistant to pests and diseases, it can occasionally be troubled by pests such as aphids, scale, or caterpillars. If infestation occurs, it can be treated with an appropriate insecticide or insecticidal soap.
Poor drainage and overwatering are the most common causes of disease in Bougainvillea, leading to root rot. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate watering schedule and ensuring good drainage are crucial to keeping your ‘New River’ healthy.
Maintenance
To keep your Bougainvillea Trellis New River Purple looking its best, make sure to prune it regularly to remove dead or damaged branches and to encourage new growth. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather, and fertilize it every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
III. Uses and Benefits
Bougainvillea ‘New River’ is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be grown on a trellis or fence to create a stunning vertical garden, or planted in a pot to add color to a patio or balcony. It can also be used as a ground cover or as a border plant.
