Bougainvilleas are known for their vibrant, colorful blooms, but getting them to flower can sometimes be a challenge. Eggshells might be the last thing you’d think to use, but they can work wonders for your plant. After incorporating eggshells into my gardening routine, my bougainvillea bloomed miraculously, and I want to share how you can do the same!
Why Bougainvilleas Can Be Tricky to Bloom
Bougainvilleas are tropical vines that thrive in warm climates with plenty of sunlight. They bloom when they receive the right balance of nutrients, sunlight, and proper care. If your bougainvillea isn’t flowering, it might not be getting enough potassium, phosphorus, or calcium—all of which are crucial for healthy blooms. This is where eggshells come in.
The Power of Eggshells for Bougainvilleas
Eggshells are rich in calcium, which helps improve the structure of the plant’s cell walls and encourages strong growth and better blooms. They also help balance the pH levels of the soil, providing a more favorable environment for flowering. Additionally, eggshells decompose slowly, releasing their nutrients over time, making them a natural, long-lasting fertilizer.
How to Use Eggshells to Boost Bougainvillea Flowers
- Collect and Prepare the Eggshells
- Save your eggshells from your kitchen. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any leftover egg, and allow them to dry completely.
- Once dry, crush the eggshells into small pieces. You can use a mortar and pestle or simply crush them with your hands.
- Incorporate the Eggshells into the Soil
- After preparing your bougainvillea’s planting area, mix the crushed eggshells into the soil.
- For existing plants, sprinkle a generous amount around the base of the plant, lightly working them into the soil. This will improve soil structure and provide long-term nutrients.
- Make an Eggshell Tea
- If you want to liquefy the nutrients for quicker absorption, create an eggshell tea by soaking crushed eggshells in water for 24-48 hours.
- Use this liquid to water your bougainvillea, giving it a boost of calcium and other essential nutrients.
- Repeat Regularly
- You can add eggshells to the soil about every 3-4 months, especially during the growing season.
- If you’re using the eggshell tea, water your bougainvillea once a month to keep the soil nutrient-rich.
Additional Bougainvillea Flowering Tips
- Provide Plenty of Sunlight
Bougainvilleas need at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight each day to flower. Make sure they are planted in a sunny spot to encourage blooming. - Water Properly
Bougainvilleas prefer to be watered deeply but infrequently. Let the soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. - Fertilize with the Right Mix
Besides eggshells, use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support the blooming process. Phosphorus is crucial for flower production. - Prune Regularly
Light pruning of old or dead stems will encourage new growth and more flowers. Be sure to prune after each bloom cycle to maintain the plant’s shape.
The Results
After following these tips and incorporating eggshells, my bougainvillea started blooming like never before. The flowers were more vibrant and plentiful, and the plant grew stronger and healthier. Eggshells truly made a miraculous difference in encouraging my bougainvillea to bloom, and I’m sure it can work for you too!
Why It Works
Eggshells are a natural source of calcium, which supports the plant’s structural growth and helps it develop healthy flowers. By using them in combination with proper sunlight, watering, and fertilization, you create the perfect environment for a bougainvillea to thrive and bloom beautifully.
