Have You Prepared Your Plumeria for Fall? 

Fall is the time of year many plumeria growers will adjust their care strategy as the growing season winds down. So, what are these strategies? Let’s start by shedding some “light” on the situation.

The cooler months bring on fall dormancy, so we’re providing some tips we want to make sure you’re considering - with the caveat that care can vary depending on your region. 

Shed Some Light (Sunshine)

Providing your plumeria with long periods of light will strengthen it before it goes dormant.

Watering

It’s important that soil is kept slightly moist, which means you will need to reduce the amount of watering. If watering is not reduced this can lead to rot and stunted growth. 

Fertilizer

Reduce or stop high-nitrogen fertilizing, however, if you choose to, select a bloom booster with higher phosphorus and potassium - and low nitrogen. Come October we recommend you stop feeding. 

Pest and Disease Control

Watch for rust fungus on leaves. Rust shows up as orange powder spots on the underside of leaves; yellow blotches on the top. To treat this you should remove leaves and improve airflow.

Consider fungicidal sprays, and start spraying preventatively in humid or rainy weather to stop spores before they spread.  

       Organic options: 

• Neem oil: When using this oil be sure to spray in the evening. Spraying too late in the morning or during the day can burn foliage.

       Non-organic options

• BioAdvanced Insect, Disease and Mite Control

Pruning and Cuttings

Avoid heavy pruning now; it can stress the plant as it heads into dormancy.You can still take cuttings in early September if you want, but healing and rooting may be slower.