Plumeria FAQ's

I just received my cuting and it doesn't look like how I expected it to. There are no roots. Is this normal?

Yes. Plumeria cuttings (also called "slips") are cut from mature blooming trees and allowed to "scab." It must scab to allow it to dry out and root. CAUTION: Do NOT put the plumeria cutting in water to sprout. Simply plant the cutting in potting soil mixed with perlite or Hawaiian lava cinders (available from us), water it, and allow to dry out before watering again. You can use a rooting hormone, if desired. Place in a warm, sunny location. Most cuttings become established within 90 days.

During the rooting process, it is important NOT to overwater. Afer all, there aren't any roots yet to absorb the water. Overwatering will cause the cutting to rot and is the #1 cause of plumeria failure. As long as the cutting remains firm to the touch, it is in good condition. Water when soil is dry about 2" down. One website even recommended watering once every 2-3 weeks When in doubt, resist the urge to water.

What is the ideal soil medium for plumeria?

Plumeria require good drainage. Porous potting soil is ideal. You can add up to 50% perlite to potting soil to increase drainage. Another good alternative is adding Hawaiian volcanic cinder lava rock (available from us). It's lightweight and porous and plumeria love it!

Plumeria can be planted in the ground or in pots.

What should I fertilize my plumeria with?

A timed-release 16-16-16 is recommended. Liquid fertilizers can also be used according to manufacturer's instructions. Do not feed during dormancy. Plumeria go dormant in winter, but will come back in spring.

How long will it take for my plumeria to bloom?

Once rooted and established, blooms should appear during the first year. This depends on sun, water, fertilizer, etc. Plumeria flowers best with at least 6 hours of direct sun.

Helpful tips:

• For the first week keep plumeria in light shade. Then, place permanently in full sun. In growing in a pot, place plumeria near a sunny window (south facing). This helps acclimate the plumeria.
• Bottom heat stimulates rooting. Placing the pot on concrete during the summer or on a heating pad indoors can help speed up the rooting process.

I personally stick a cutting into the ground, forget about it, and let nature take its course. They're not difficult to grow and don't require a lot of care.

Enjoy your Hawaiian "Pua Melia" (plumeria, in Hawaiian)