Photo by Michael A. McClure

Q&A - ASK THE EXPERTS

Q - Should I prune back my bougainvillea branches that were nipped by frost?

A - We are not finished with the frosty nights just yet, so wait until the end of March to prune off any darkened plant material, advises University of Arizona Maricopa County Cooperative Extension (MCCE) Master Gardener Michelle Anderson. The damaged portions act as insulation for the heart of the plant below. With bougainvillea, it is very possible that you will see new leaves bud out from those damaged branches as soon as it warms up.