How to Care for Plumeria in Cold Weather

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By bfreethree
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Care for Plumeria in Cold Weather

With it's exceptional beauty and fragrance the exquisite Plumeria can turn any garden into a tropical paradise. It's common name is Frangipani; it is also known as the Temple tree. While many people still believe that this beautiful plant is native to Hawaii, it actually originated in Mexico and Central America.

Although the Plumeria is a tropical plant, experts have found that when cared for correctly it can also thrive in areas with climates that are subtropical or colder. These plants grow best when the night time temperature remains above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 60 degrees is optimal while a temperature of 40 degrees or less can be disastrous. So, here is the best way to care for your Plumeria when the weather begins to turn cold.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Good draining soil with 1/3 to 1/4 parts sand.
Perlite
Fertilizer (high Phosphate)
Cold Weather Options
Mulch
Frost Cloths
Christmas Lights
Replanting Pots (young plants).
Potasium and Epsom Salt (1 TBL per gallon)
Optional: Rocks for 'raised bed' border.

Step 1

In the spring, plant your Plumeria tree in a sunny part of the yard, near your house. If the typical wintertime weather in your area is extremely wet, build a 'raised bed' for your planting. The 'raised bed' will help maximize soil drainage for your plant.
Step 2

To build your "raised bed', add enough good draining soil to your planting area to evenly raise the soil level about five inches or more. You can use rocks to build a border around the 'raised bed' (or simply pack extra dirt around the sides of the border).
Step 3

When winter weather arrives, if the night time temperature falls below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, add a layer of mulch to the soil. Spread the mulch at least an inch or more deep, to cover the areas where the roots have spread.
Step 4

If the night time temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit place a string of Christmas tree lights on the Plumeria tree and light (if possible).
Step 5

And when the temperature falls to or below 'Freezing' (30 degrees Fahrenheit) take off the Christmas lights and place a frost blanket over your plant. Make sure to give it as much coverage as possible.
Step 6

If extreme damage occurs, repot smaller Plumeria and bring inside.
For leaf damage add a very small amount of Epsom salt solution (1 TBL per gallon) to prevent stress. Do not add fertilizer to plant while it is inside. Give your plant warmth, water (not too much) and sunlight (if possible) to keep it from becoming dormant. If the plant becomes dormant stop watering it until spring.

Whether you decide to leave it in the pot or replant it outside, when the warm weather returns your Plumeria will again be ready for Spring. Enjoy your garden!

Comments

Upon-Request said

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on 10/9/2009 Great tips! They're so beautiful when they're happy ;)

jswana said

on 9/1/2009 How intelligent and beautiful. Now I know what a Plumeria really is and what to do with something so beautiful should I get one. thanks for that. Jswana and 5*

Psalmist4M said

on 8/5/2009 My husband & I grew one we purchased in Hawaii. We keep in huge potting on a flat with wheels so that we can bring it in in the winter & out for the spring & summer. We love it & it is very healthy. Thanks for the great advice and tips. 5*s