How to Take Care of Mandevillas

Over 100 species of mandevilla plants exist.

Mandevilla vines are also referred to as hoop plants. The perennial vines climb and produce flowers. Mandevilla vines grow large trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, white or pink. The growing vine generally reaches up to 20 feet, depending on the variety. The tropical vine grows best in USDA zones 9 to 11, and it can grow indoors in containers. The plant thrives best in warm areas and it is native to South and Central America.

Things You'll Need

• Soaker hose
• 10-20-10 fertilizer
• Mulch

Instructions

1. Plant the outdoor mandevilla in a location that receives bright sunlight. Too much sunlight can burn the indoor plant and cause it to wilt. Place an indoor mandevilla near a window with filtered sunlight.

2. Spread 3 inches of mulch around the base of the outdoor vine. The mulch prevents weeds from growing and it retains the soil moisture.

3. Maintain a temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the day. The plant requires a temperature of 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

4. Water the mandevilla plant only when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feels dry. Water the plant more frequently during droughts or hot water with a soaker hose. The plant roots store water efficiently.

5. Apply a phosphorus-based fertilizer such as 10-20-10 every two weeks in the spring and summer. Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions to prevent harming the plant.

6. Transplant mandevilla plants into growing containers and care for them indoors if temperatures drop in the fall or winter in your area. Temperatures that reach 45 degrees Fahrenheit or colder can cause the plant to die. Place the container in a warm garage with a temperature between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Reduce the water and amount of light that the vines receive.

7. Prune the mandevilla to prevent it from appearing leggy. Remove spindly pieces by pinching them off the plant.

Tips & Warnings

• Install a trellis 12 inches or less away from the mandevilla vine if you desire.

• Inspect mandevilla plants carefully for pests before you move them indoors. Treat insects with insecticidal soaps or insecticides before you bring the plants indoors.

• Keep mandevilla plants away from children and pets because they are toxic if ingested.

References

• Clemson University Extension; Mandevilla; Marjan Kluepfel; June 1999
• Heirloom Garden Experts: Mandevilla Care
• Washington State University; Mandeville; May 2008