How to Grow Plumeria – Are you a gardener looking to add some tropical flair to your collection? Plumerias, also known as frangipani, are popular for their vibrant colors and sweet fragrance. But did you know that you can easily grow them from cuttings? In this post, we will cover everything you need to know about how to grow plumerias, including pot type, soil type, watering and light requirements, fertilizer, propagation methods, and growing in pots or soil. So, let’s get started!
Pot and Soil Type for Plumeria
When it comes to how to grow plumeria the pot and soil type are important factors. You’ll want to choose a well-draining pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Use a mixture of perlite, sand, and potting soil to create and maintain excellent drainage. A great soil mix consists of 50% perlite, 20% sand, and 30% potting soil. This can be adjusted to allow for your climate and environment. Plumerias do not want to be sitting in water, which can cause problems such as root rot. Therefore, providing adequate drainage is essential for your plumerias’ success.
Plumeria Light Requirements
Plumerias require full-sun – a minimum of 6 hours per day. Excess shade can produce a weak plant with few blooms. Therefore, optimum exposure to sunlight is necessary to promote flowering and healthy plant growth.
How Often to Water Plumeria in Pots
These tropics loving plants like moist soil but not flooded. In the summer months, water two to three times a week and reduce watering to once or twice a week in winter. Water the plants deeply so that the root ball is saturated, but allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering your plumerias again.
How Often to Fertilize Plumeria
When it comes to fertilizer needs in how to grow plumeria it’s important to give plumerias a fertilizer mix that is high in potassium. Potassium in the fertilizer will promote strong root growth and phosphorus will help stimulate blooms and boost the flower’s color. Feed your planting once a month with a 2:1:3 ratio fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. On the other hand, during colder months, you’ll hold back on fertilizer. Avoid using organic ammonia-based fertilizers and cow manure, as it can cause burns, or even worse, death.
Plumeria How to Propagate
Plumerias can be grown from seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Growers have achieved greater success with the cutting method, especially since they are easy to propagate. When planting in the ground, they will easily root and develop. Take a 12 to 18 inch cutting from a fresh stem and pinch off the leaves. Insert the cut end into a pot filled with soil and perlite. Leave the cutting to settle for a few days, then slowly start watering. Keep the pot in warm, bright, and humid conditions until the plant is established.
Growing Plumeria in Pots
Plumerias can grow in pots, making them ideal for gardeners with small yards or patios. In areas colder than Zone 9, plumerias need to be overwintered indoors or in a greenhouse. Pots can be moved inside to a bright location in fall, and returned outside after the danger of frost has passed in the spring.
Plumeria Care Outdoors
In Zone 9B or warmer, they will grow outdoors all year round when planted in well-drained soil. If growing in soil, select a location with well-drained soil and plant in the warmest part of your garden. A sunny spot is a must. These conditions will aid in encouraging healthy growth and optimal blooming.
Happy Gardening!
Plumerias can add a touch of the tropics to your garden and home with ease. With a little bit of knowledge and the right care, they can flourish and bloom year after year. Growing plumerias doesn’t have to be complicated or overly difficult. Just remember that they love sun, don’t like wet feet, and require periodic fertilization and keep in a moderate temperature. With the right information in your arsenal, you can have a beautiful collection of plumerias in your yard, patio, or home in no time.
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