Taller varieties of bougainvillea need support, otherwise, they’ll easily grow as groundcover plants. To elevate bougainvilleas, tie them to trellises, arbors, fences, or other useful structures. Without support, these twining vines turn groundward. Trellises can help to train the plant to grow in the desired direction. If there are heavy branches on the plant, use a trellis to provide the needed support and prevent breaking.