1. Water Deficiency
Closely observe the potting soil and water your bougainvillea promptly if it’s suffering from water deficiency. Place it in an area with diffused, weak light to aid its recovery. If there are no issues with the root system, new buds should sprout within a week.
Bougainvillea grows rapidly in the summer and is quite drought-tolerant. However, don’t let it get too dry—water it directly when the potting soil is 2-3 inches dry and place it in a sunny spot to encourage blooming.
Overwatering can damage the root system, leading to root rot, and prevent the leaves from absorbing nutrients. Excessive sun exposure can scorch the leaves, and in severe cases, they may drop.
2. Root Rot
If the root rot issue is minor, you can treat it with mancozeb. Apply it once to prevent the rot from spreading, and wait for new roots to sprout.
If the root rot is more severe, replant the bougainvillea in fresh soil and a new pot, then allow it to re-root.
3. Environmental Changes
If your bougainvillea has been in a shaded environment, sudden exposure to direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Gradually introduce it to sunlight to allow it to adapt.
Start by placing it in the sun for an hour on the first day, gradually increasing the duration. Eventually, it will be able to tolerate full sun exposure.