Care for a Plumeria Tree

Overview

Plumerias are tropical flowering trees that are grown outdoors in mild-winter regions or in containers in colder areas. Plumeria trees bloom from early summer until autumn in waxy, fragrant, 2- to 4-inch-wide flowers that often are used to make leis. The flowers come in shades of white, yellow, pink and red. Plumeria trees have thick stems and can grow to more than 30 feet tall, although some varieties grow to only shrub-height. They have leathery, tropical leaves that also add interest and beauty to the trees.

Step 1

Water the plumeria tree deeply and thoroughly once each week when rainfall is less than 1 inch. If you're growing the plumeria in a container, water the tree two or three times per week, providing water until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot.

Step 2

Feed the plumeria tree once every two weeks while it's actively growing with a high-phosphorous fertilizer, such as a fertilizer made for flowering plants and trees. Follow the dosage instructions on the label.

Step 3

Prune the plumeria tree in spring to remove any broken, dead or diseased growth. Trim the plumeria to shape the tree, if desired.

Step 4

Protect the tree from cold temperatures below 50 degrees F by covering the tree with a blanket. Bring the tree indoors during cold spells if it is growing in container outside.