PLUMERIA
$5.00 per cutting
Available in white, yellow, pink and red.
Please contact us for ordering and shipping information.
Plumeria are true tropical flowering trees, also known as frangipani or temple tree, and the flowers are often used to make Hawaiian leis. They can be grown in containers, in the ground, or in containers sunk in the ground. During the months of active growth, ample sun, water and food are essential. Healthy plumeria will bloom regularly and abundantly when they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of full sun per day. They are heavy feeders and will bloom and grow vigorously with enough of the proper foods. Plumeria love lots of water, but cannot tolerate wet feet, so they must be planted in fast draining soil or in beds with adequate drainage.
STARTING YOUR CUTTING
Plant in well draining medium. Place only 1/4 of the cutting beneath the surface. Water & wait for first signs of foliage & then fertilize.
SPRING
When the night time temperatures begin to stay above 50F, plumeria can be brought out of winter storage and out of dormancy. Due to conditions of storage, some root loss and shriveling of branches can be expected, but is not cause for alarm. This is the time to feed, water, top-dress, and/or repot. Since the plant is dormant, repotting or root pruning will minimally disturb the plant. Repotting and root pruning are optional and are performed as with any other container grown plant. To top-dress, scrape off the loose soil and dried up roots from the first inch of soil in the pot. Replace the removed soil with a mixture of compost and well composted cow manure, but do not pack it in. Place the plant in a warm and sunny location. Some people like to sink the container in the ground which will promote more vigorous growth, provide support, and prevent it from blowing over, since plumeria tips are fragile and easily snapped off.
SUMMER
Summer has arrived for plumeria once there is an abundance of leaf growth. Once the leaf growth has developed, the summer care can be followed. As mentioned before, plumeria are heavy feeders. However, in order to discourage excessive stem elongation and to promote flowering, fertilizers low in nitrogen and high in phosphorous are recommended. Keep a plumeria healthy by feeding every other week and watering as necessary. During exceptionally hot periods, plants in above-ground containers may need thorough watering as often as twice a week. As with all plants, check the soil before watering. If the top few inches of soil is dry, water it thoroughly. Certain varieties of plumeria find heat a bit much for nominal blossom production. If this seems to be a problem, move the plant into a "shifting shade" location for better flower production and lasting quality. As the days get shorter during August and September, some lower leaf yellowing and drop is normal. Some varieties will even attempt a fall bloom cycle if the weather cooperates. Plumeria can still be blooming into November and December, but be careful ~ an early frost can damage or kill the plant.
FALL
For plumeria, fall begins October 1st. Stop feeding and reduce water to encourage the plant to go into its natural dormant period. Its difficult to predict the weather, and, therefore, is difficult to give a date by which your plumeria should be safely stored for the winter. If the temperature is expected to fall below 40F the plant should be protected. Plumeria are severely damaged, if not killed, by subfreezing temperatures.
WINTER
During the winter, plumeria require very little care. Before storage, the leaves should be removed. The best technique for this is to cut each and every leaf off the plant at a point about one inch out from the stem. If you dont remove the leaves, they will yellow and fall off during storage, providing a good environment for pests and fungus and also make a mess. Store the plumeria in a cool, dry, dark, and ventilated area such as a garage or shed. Temperatures should not be allowed to fall below freezing in the storage area. During exceptionally cold periods (i.e., below 25F outside), a small heater may be needed. A cool greenhouse is not recommended for plumeria storage. Some people suggest not watering them for the entire winter, but a small monthly drink will probably do more good than harm, especially if the branches are drying.
