Looking to grow something totally different in your garden this year?
Plumerias are those beautiful tropical flowers that smell amazing and look like they belong in a beach resort!
I was super nervous when I started growing them, but now they’re my absolute favorite flowers.
Let me show you just how easy they can be to grow!
Selecting the Perfect Growing Location
You guys, location is everything when it comes to plumerias! After years of experimenting in my garden, I’ve discovered these sun-loving sweethearts need all the brightness they can get.
These beauties need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to really thrive.
Trust me on this one – the more sun, the better! I learned this the hard way when I first tried growing them in partial shade, and let’s just say the results weren’t quite what I hoped for.
Soil Requirements
Ground Planting Soil
Let’s talk dirt! Your plumeria needs soil that drains like a dream.
In my garden, I had to get creative with my heavy clay soil. I mixed in sand, peat moss, and my favorite organic compost to create the perfect growing environment.
Container Soil Mix
Want to know my secret recipe for container success? I’ve found the absolute perfect soil mix after lots of trial and error!
I mix equal parts cactus soil and regular potting mix – it’s like the Goldilocks of plumeria soil: not too dry, not too wet, but just right!
Watering Requirements
Winter Care (Dormant Period)
During winter, your plumeria goes into full rest mode – think of it as their beauty sleep!
Don’t panic when all the leaves fall off – it’s totally normal!
I barely water mine during this time, only giving them a drink when the soil is completely dry.
Summer Care (Active Growth)
Summer is party time for plumerias! When those beautiful leaves appear, that’s your signal to start regular watering.
I always do the finger test – if the soil feels slightly dry, it’s watering time!
Make sure to water thoroughly until you see it flowing from the drainage holes – your plant will thank you!
Fertilization Guide
Recommended Fertilizers
Here’s a game-changer I discovered: bloom boosters are your best friends when growing plumerias!
I alternate between Dr. Earth Bud and Bloom Booster (4-10-7) and Sea Growth water-soluble fertilizer (4-26-26) for the most amazing results.
Sometimes I’ll throw in an all-purpose fertilizer too, just to keep things interesting and give my plants a balanced diet.
Plumeria Varieties
Available Colors and Types
Oh. My. Goodness. The variety choices will make your head spin!
The Samoan Fluff is my absolute favorite white variety – those round, overlapping petals are just dreamy!
For yellow lovers, you can’t go wrong with Aztec Gold or the classic Celadine (also known as Hawaiian Yellow) – I use these gorgeous blooms to make my own tropical-inspired leis!
Don’t even get me started on Ruby Star with its deep rosy pink blooms, or the showstopping Liliana with its rainbow-like petals!
Flower Characteristics
Each variety has its own personality – from rounded petals to spidery shapes that’ll make your garden look absolutely magical.
The fragrances are to die for! I love walking through my garden in the morning when the scent is strongest.
Repotting Instructions
Timing and Process
Spring is repotting season! That’s when your plumeria is ready for their yearly “upgrade.”
You’ll know it’s time when you see roots peeking out of the drainage holes – that’s your plant’s way of saying “I need more space!”
Here’s my foolproof method: choose a pot just slightly larger than the current one (I usually go with a 12-inch for medium plants), add a drainage screen at the bottom (keeps those pesky bugs out!), and plant at the same depth as before.
Just remember to leave a little space at the top for watering – trust me, it makes life so much easier!
Growing plumerias might seem tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be absolutely hooked! I know I am, and my garden has never looked more tropical and inviting. Give these gorgeous plants a try – I promise you won’t regret it!