Plumeria

Q. Can you tell me the light water and soil requirements for plumeria? It will be kept outdoors in a pot. I got it from a garage sale. There were tons in all colors. I have no idea why I bought it because my yard is simply full as it is!

A. Plumeria are a true tropical flowering tree. They are well suited to Texas and the Gulf Coast climates from April through October but usually must be protected from November through March. Since plumeria have a natural dormant period this can correspond very conveniently to an indoor storage period during the winter months. Plumeria can be grown in containers in the ground or in containers sunk in the ground. During the months of active growth ample sun food and water are essential. Healthy plumeria will bloom regularly and profusely when they receive at least 6 hours of full sun per day. Plumeria are heavy feeders and will bloom and grow vigorously with an ample amount 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.

IN THE SPRING

When the night time temperatures begin to remain above 50§F plumeria can be brought out of winter storage and "encouraged" out of dormancy. Due to conditions of storage some root loss and desiccation 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 it will be minimally disturbed by repotting or root pruning if necessary. Repotting and root pruning are optional and are performed as with any other container grown plant. Top-dress by scraping 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. Then feed and water thoroughly with a fertilizer such as "Super Bloom" or "Carl Pool's BR-61". If desired there are specialty plumeria foods that can be used as well. Place the plant in a warm and sunny location. Some people like to sink the container in the ground. This promotes more vigorous growth provides support and prevents it from blowing over. Plumeria tips are fragile and easily snapped off when the plant blows over.

IN THE SUMMER

For plumeria summer has arrived once a lush growth of leaves has developed. Many will bloom before developing leaves others will not. Once the leaf growth has developed the summer regimen of 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. Once again "Super Bloom" or "BR-61" are excellent choices. Keep a plumeria healthy by feeding every other week.