How to prune bougainvillea spectabilis

After each major flowering flush; main structural prune in late winter or early spring before new growth. After flowering, cut lateral shoots back to 3–4 nodes from the main branches to stimulate new flowering spurs. In late winter (for container plants), reduce overall size by up to one-third, removing weak, crossing, or dead stems entirely.

After each flowering cycle (2–3 times a year in warm climates); annually for container plants in late winter. Bougainvillea spectabilis flowers on short spurs from mature wood, so pruning at the right time is critical. Prune hard after each main flowering cycle to encourage the next flush of colour. Container specimens typically need an annual cutback in late winter to keep them manageable. Wear thick gloves — the spines are sharp.

After flowering, cut lateral shoots back to 3–4 nodes from the main branches to stimulate new flowering spurs. In late winter (for container plants), reduce overall size by up to one-third, removing weak, crossing, or dead stems entirely.