I had some new bougainvillieas planted in my backyard last October (2011). They are very young bougainvilleas, not big at all. Since then, one has been doing nicely, lots of green leaves and some blooms, and one died. I am not sure if it was due to overwatering, the soil seemed fairly wet when the landscaper replaced it (they don't seem to have a lot of advice, which is why I am here)

The new one immediately lost leaves and looked droopy, but I assumed that was the shock. I have modified watering times to twice a week, one hour at a time on drip system. Its been several weeks and it is still struggling. Most of the leaves are gone, stems are looking more brittle and less green. The other one is still doing okay. Any thoughts?

Am I still watering too much? Its so hot, I can't believe I am over-watering, so wondering if there is something else I am missing?

THanks!

I haven't ever tried to plant one at this time of the year, however, if I *did*, I would make sure it has some relief from the direct sun (that it will love once established) - throw a sheet, pillow case or something over it, if it larger, take a lawn chair and park it next to it to shade it.

Once established (as I would assume your older plant is becoming, but probably not completely until next spring) I would once again question a landscaper who was watering these plants more than every two or so weeks in the summer. You can measure by the lushness of the growth compared to the bloom - too much water, too many leaves, not many blooms. If you change your watering practices, however, don't just cut them off, slowly wean them or they can die as easily.

Hope this helps, good luck!

Sometimes if a plant wilts during te day doesnt mean it needs water, be sure to check soil moisture before watering, wilt could just be a response to the heat or loss of root (breakage, rot, etc...)

I have had great luck transplanting and propagating bogies in te summer, it is te preferable season in my opinion