🌳 Frangipani

Use well-drained, aerated soil; frangipani (Plumeria) does not tolerate waterlogging. In open ground, choose sandy or loamy soil and improve drainage (raised beds/mounds) if clay is present. A moderately fertile but not heavy mix is ideal; incorporate some coarse sand and a little organic matter for structure. In containers, use a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix, amended with perlite, pumice and bark. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (~6.0-7.5) and allow the medium to dry out between waterings, especially during the dormant period.

Seeds are rarely used for frangipani (Plumeria) as plants are variable and germination can be slow; vegetative propagation is preferable to obtain true-to-type plants and earlier flowering. From seed (if available): - Use fresh seeds; sow soon after collection. - Sow in a warm position (approx. 25-30°C) in a sterile, very poorly draining medium (e.g. cut seed mix with coarse sand/perlite). - Sow shallowly (lightly covered) and maintain regular, but never soggy, humidity; high humidity and good air circulation help reduce seedling damping-off. - Provide bright light (not intense midday sun) until the plant is established; pot once seedlings have several true leaves. From cuttings (most reliable): - Take cuttings from medium-hard to hard wood in warm weather (spring-summer; until early autumn in frost-free climates). - Let the cut end dry and heal for several days before planting. - Soak in rooting hormone and insert in a dry to barely moist, well-drained medium (mix of coarse sand, perlite and cactus). - Keep warm and shaded; water moderately until roots form, then gradually increase watering as growth progresses. - Avoid cold, damp conditions at all stages, as cuttings are prone to rot.

Feed frangipani (Plumeria) only during the active growth period (spring to summer). Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for container or outdoor plants (e.g. about 10-10-10 or 14-14-14) at the rates indicated on the label, or supplement with a lower-nitrogen flowering formula if flowering is weak. Avoid heavy nitrogen, which can favor leaf growth at the expense of flowers. For potted plants, a dilute liquid fertilizer (about half the dose) every 2 to 4 weeks during the growing season can be used instead of, or in addition to, slow-release granules. Stop fertilizing in autumn and winter, when growth slows or the plant goes dormant. Water after fertilizing, keep fertilizer away from the trunk and do not fertilize plants suffering from drought.