Question: We have a lot of bougainvilleas, and I was wondering if I have to cover the whole plant during winter or just the base of the plant?
You want to protect the base of the plant so it will regrow again in the spring. Let the top die back, but protect the base.
Keep in mind that protecting it by insulating (mulch, blanket, etc., and no heat source) will only give you about 5 or 6 degrees worth of protection. This might be enough depending on how old your plant is (older plants can tolerate colder temperatures longer) and the exposure of your plant (how much reflected heat is coming off of walls) and if it is in the wind or not (windy locations will be more damaging).
Bob Morris is an associate professor with the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.
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