bougainvilleas

[hakunamatata]

I have been told it is impossible to grow these in our area 11 where we do have some quite stiff frosts, however I bought a little 3E plant two years ago which has survived. Its the dark red variety and last winter I wrapped it in straw and fleece until the frosts were over.  When I scrape a bit of bark it shows green and it has started to sprout from the bottom (it is now about 2m tall). Should I cut of to just above the sprouting bits or should I just leave it and see what happens?

[Gardian]

Now, someone who really knows about these lovely plants will undoubtedly know more, but here's what we know.

Obviously thrive in the sun (which you get), over-winter ok but best in a heated greenhouse or similar (inside most houses is too warm, elsewhere too cold).  Been told that it's best to leave a good specimen with a pepiniere to over-winter.  We've got 2 or 3 from previous years and they're all OK, but not exactly in the condition they were bought in. 

As regards your specific question re pruning, I always cut back.  

[hakunamatata]

Thanks Gardian - job for today then.  As my granny used to say "never say die until a dead horse kicks you!!!"