Plumeria are tropical trees that are hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11. Everywhere else they are kept small in containers that can be taken indoors in the winter. When they bloom, they produce beautiful, fragrant flowers that can be used in making leis. Getting them to bloom can be tricky, though, and requires the right fertilizer, particularly if they are in containers. Keep reading to learn more plumeria fertilizer information.
Plumeria Flower Fertilizer
Plumeria plants require a lot of phosphorous. This is the middle number on fertilizer labels. You also want to avoid fertilizers with too much nitrogen, which is the first number on fertilizer labels. Nitrogen encourages growth, and if you’re trying to grow a tree in a pot, this is the last thing you want.
Using a plumeria flower fertilizer with a low first number will make for a more compact tree. Plumeria plants require slightly acidic soil. Constant fertilization can raise acid levels too high, however. If this happens, add some Epsom salts to the soil to neutralize it. Adding 1-2 tbsp every month should do the trick.
When and How to Fertilize Plumeria
Plumerias benefit from consistent fertilizing all summer long, about once per week. Fertilizing styles always vary person to person and even plant to plant. Applying a soil fertilizer may be enough to meet fertilizer requirements for plumeria plants in your care. However, if you water your plumeria too much, you might find all the nutrients are just washing away, not to mention too much irrigation can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply, but allow any excess to drain away and wait until the soil has dried out some before watering it again.
You can also opt for a foliar fertilizer. Keep up your weekly routine but, instead, apply your foliar fertilizer directly to both sides of the leaves. Apply it in the evening, when the harsh rays of the sun aren’t going to be intensified by the fertilizer, scorching the leaves.
