Plumeria Tricks

Phosphorus and Fertilizer

• For a beautiful, healthy plumeria plant, phosphorus-rich fertilizer is key. Choose a water-soluble fertilizer with a high phosphorus content, which is indicated by the middle number on the fertilizer label, between the nitrogen content and that of potassium. Fertilize plumeria monthly during its growing season and stop during the winter, when the flower is dormant. Pour fertilizer directly into the soil so that it is absorbed by the plumeria's roots and circulated throughout the plant.

Frost Protection

• As a plant native to the warm weather of Central and South America, plumeria is particularly susceptible to frost damage. To prevent chilly weather from killing your plumeria flowers, plant them close to your home so that they are near a heat source and select an area for them that receives plenty of sunlight. For colder climates, Tropica Mango suggests growing plumeria in a plastic tub that can be moved indoors when the weather cools down.

Water the Right Way

• Like all plants, plumerias require water, but knowing how much to give them and when is vital to keeping them growing strong. Plumerias require deep but infrequent watering, according to Aloha Tropicals. Give the plant's soil time to dry out between waterings and water plumerias with less frequency when the weather cools, typically beginning in the middle of October. When all of the plumeria's leaves fall off and the plant enters its dormancy stage, cease watering until spring and it begins growing again.

Soil

• No amount of love, care and plant food will suffice if plumerias aren't grown in the proper soil, so ensure they have what they need. Use a soil that drains easily and has a coarse texture for plumerias, like a potting soil mix containing sand and perlite or one made for cactus plants. If growing plumerias outside, mix the special potting soil blend with earth from the planting site at a 70/30 ratio, as recommended by Tropica Mango.