If you live in a tropical climate, plant a plumeria tree to enjoy a beautiful addition to your home or garden. Although this tree is hardy, it requires some gardening care to maintain. If you aren’t sure where to begin, use this guide to help you look after the plant.

Do:

Plant it in a container.

Although plumeria trees thrive in tropical climates, they’ll wilt under too much direct sunlight. Plant your sapling in a pot or container so that you can move it to accommodate its needs. Keep the tree in a partially shaded area with limited direct sunlight during the hot months, then move it back into full sunlight during the cooler times of the year.

Use well-draining soil.

Since a plumeria tree needs to be deeply watered twice a week, good drainage is needed to let the excess liquid flow from its container. If you bought the sapling potted, change the mix so that it’s planted in a coarse, well-draining medium.

Don’t:

Over prune.

If you’re pruning or trimming the tree and notice fewer flowers, you’re likely cutting too frequently. Although these gardening tasks can be helpful, they may also cause undue stress on the tree, stunting its growth. If you need to clip your plumeria plant for aesthetic or practical reasons, cut up to 12 inches from the ground in early spring to help prime the tree for new growth.

Apply too much fertilizer.

Begin regular fertilization once your tree shows new growth. Read the bag labels, and use a formula that’s high in phosphorus and low in nitrogen every two to three weeks. A fertilizer with these ingredients ensures the shoots get the nutrients they need to grow healthily. You’ll know you’re using too much fertilizer if the leaves turn yellow or wilt.

If you’re new to plumeria care, visit Garden Exchange in Hilo, HI, to get everything you need. These gardening professionals will equip you with pots, soil, watering cans, and fertilizer, ensuring you have what you need to maintain your plant. Call (808) 961-2875 to ask about their current inventory, and visit the website to view their weekly specials.