Plumeria Planting Tips

Planting

• Plumeria require a well-drained, sandy soil. They will not survive if over-watered. Place the plant in a full-sun location. These are tropical plants and they like it hot. If planting an already developed plant, dig a generously sized hole for the root ball and place the plant in the hole. Make sure the plant is at the same level as the rest of the ground. Soak the soil with water right after planting, but water infrequently and only if there is insufficient rain from then on.

Watering

• Plumeria are sensitive to water and light, so keeping them well watered is important. However, they do not respond to over-watering, so when in doubt, keep your plumeria on the dry side. It's best to water them infrequently, but deeply when you do water them. If your plumeria is potted, you may want to immerse the bottom in a tub of warm water and allow the roots to soak the water up. Misting plumeria is also beneficial, as it will give the plant much needed humidity, particularly in winter.

Fertilizing

• Plumeria like fertilizer. They should be fed composted manures, blood and bone meal and other compost frequently during the growing season. If potted, they should receive new soil each year.

Winter Protection

• Plumeria are sensitive to frost. If left unprotected, a plumeria plant can be damaged, starting at the tips. If left in a freeze, the plant will likely die. Plant your plumeria in the hottest part of your yard, as the heat will continue to be released throughout the night. If you pot the plant and bring it inside during the winter, it is possible to keep it from going dormant. Keep it in a sunny spot and away from heater vents. If it continues to have leaves, it hasn't gone dormant and you should continue to water it--infrequently. If you must leave your plumeria outside during the winter, you can protect it with frost cloth, blankets, sheets, cardboard or anything else lightweight.