Disease Library

Bougainvillea Problems & Solutions

Is your bougainvillea struggling? Most issues are easy to diagnose and treat. Use our diagnostic directory to identify the problem and apply organic nursery solutions.

Diagnostic Index

Visible symptomPrimary causeOrganic nursery remedy
Yellowing leaves, dropping budsOverwatering / root rotImmediately stop watering. Allow soil to dry fully. Repot in well-draining soil.
Lush green leaves, zero flowersToo much nitrogen / insufficient sunlightMove to full sun. Stop nitrogen feeds. Withhold water until a slight droop.
Sticky leaves, white cottony patchesAphid / mealybug infestationSpray thoroughly with a neem oil and liquid soap mix every 5 days.
White powdery spots on leavesFungal powdery mildewImprove air circulation. Spray with a baking soda and water solution or organic fungicide.
Slow growth, pale green veinsMicronutrient deficiency (iron / magnesium)Apply 1 tbsp Epsom salt to the soil. Add organic compost.

Pests: Aphids & Mealybugs

The Problem

Aphids and mealybugs are sap-sucking pests that target soft new growth, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts black sooty mold.

The Organic Solution

Mix 5ml of pure cold-pressed neem oil and 2ml of mild liquid dish soap in 1 litre of warm water. Spray the plant thoroughly, paying special attention to the undersides of leaves and branch forks. Apply in the late evening, never under direct sun to avoid leaf burn, every 5 days until the pests are gone.

Still stuck? Send a photo of the affected plant to our specialists on WhatsApp and we will identify the issue and recommend an organic fix.