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Bougainvillia
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Posted by Jiffo Costa de la Luz (My Page) on Sun, Jul 17, 05 at 12:18
| I've just bought a house on the Costa de la Luz, and would like to plant Bougainvillia. However, I only have a small plot, (400m sq), and have been told that it is a thirsty plant, whose roots tend to seek out water, rather like the Willow. As I have a swimming pool within about 5 - 10 metres of any spot in the garden, I am concerned about planting one, if its roots will damage the pool. Can anybody confirm whether this information is correct, please? |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Bougainvillia
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| Why not grow your Bougainvillia in a large pot if you are worried about root spread. Bougainvillia grows better if pot-bound. Another consideration is shedding of leaves if you keep the plant near a pool, you may be forever cleaning your pool! Those are the downsides, but well worth it for the outstanding colour impact to your garden. I love them. |
Here is a link that might be useful: my mediterranean garden
RE: Bougainvillia
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| I am in Southern California but I believe our climates are similar. We have a 40-year-old, large bougainvillea in our yard above a retaining wall. We have never had any problems with the roots coming through the cement block wall (even though the mortar in the joints is very deteriorated) nor have we had a problem with invasive roots in the yard. We neglect our bougainvillea. They receive little water or fertilizer, and they produce beautiful bracts for five months or more a year. But I agree with Sherill, they do shed a lot of debris. Last, we also have a 40-year-old in-ground swimming pool. We have many tough old succulents and junipers growing within a few feet of the pool and have never had a problem with roots cracking the pool to seek water, but that’s just our experience and there could be a number of factors with the workmanship of your pool that might be different. The roots did crack through the concrete decking about 10 years ago, though. |
RE: Bougainvillia
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- Posted by Jiffo Costa de la Luz (My Page) on
Thu, Jul 21, 05 at 12:56
| Hi Shadowsmom Many thanks for the info. I must confess that I've not read in any of the gardening books about problems with Bougainvillea roots, just been told - perhaps by someone who DOESN'T know what they're talking about!! After all, I think after 40 years you're probably a bit of an expert and would have had problems by now if you were going to. I've also decided to heed yours and Sherrill's advice, and place my Bougi away from the pool, due to leaf drop. Thanks again! |
RE: Bougainvillia
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| You are very welcome!! I am sure you will enjoy your new home. |
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