The Best Soil for Plumeria Plants – A Complete Guide

Plumerias, also known as frangipanis, are tropical trees that produce colorful, fragrant blooms. They are popular plants in warm climates and make excellent container plants that can be overwintered indoors. Providing plumerias with the proper soil is key to their health and performance. In this complete guide, we will cover everything you need to know about choosing the best soil for your plumeria plants.

Plumeria Soil Requirements

When selecting soil for plumerias, there are a few important factors to consider:

• Drainage – Excellent drainage is crucial. Plumerias do not tolerate wet soggy soil. The soil should drain quickly and not hold moisture.

• Aeration – A loose airy soil is needed to prevent compaction and allow oxygen to reach the roots.

• Acidity – Plumerias prefer a slightly acidic soil in the pH range of 60-70.

• Nutrients – A nutrient-rich, organic soil will provide nutrients without risk of burn. Avoid soils with chemical fertilizers.

Recommended Soil Components

To create the ideal plumeria soil, these ingredients are recommended:

• Coarse sand or pumice – Creates drainage and aeration.

• Peat moss or coco coir – Improves moisture retention.

• Perlite or vermiculite – Aerates the soil.

• Composted bark or compost – Adds organic matter and nutrients.

• Sphagnum peat – Boosts acidity preferred by plumerias.

Commercial Soil Mixes

There are many suitable commercial cactus and citrus mixes that work well for container plumerias. Look for a fast-draining, sandy mix with organic matter. Avoid moisture-retentive mixes.

Cactus and citrus mixes can be used alone or amended with extra perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Homemade Soil Mixes

It’s easy to make your own plumeria soil mix at home. Here are two simple recipes:

• 1 part peat moss or coco coir

• 1 part perlite or vermiculite

• 1 part coarse sand

• 1 part composted bark or compost

• 1 part peat moss or coco coir

• 1 part perlite or pumice

• 1 part coarse sand

• 1⁄4 part pine bark fines (optional)

Thoroughly mix ingredients in a bucket or wheelbarrow. Store any extra in an airtight container.

Ground Planting

When planting plumerias in the ground in zones 10-11, amend native soil with organic matter like compost. Dig in up to 50% amendments to create a well-draining, nutritious soil.

Soil for Seedlings

Use a light, sterile starting mix for plumeria seeds and cuttings. Combine seed starting mix with extra perlite or coarse sand.

Once seedlings are established, transition to a grittier plumeria soil mix.

Watering soil

Regardless of soil type, plumerias need careful watering. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. Avoid excessive moisture.

Fertilizing

Feed container plumerias monthly during the growing season with a balanced, organic fertilizer. Slow release pellets work well.

Follow label rates to prevent burn. Leach salts monthly by watering thoroughly.

Things to Avoid

Steer clear of moisture-retentive potting soils, garden soils, topsoils, or any dense, heavy mixes. These can lead to root rot and other problems.

Also avoid soils with chemical fertilizers, as these can burn plumeria roots.

The Bottom Line

Providing well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is vital for plumerias. Aim for a slightly acidic mix amended with sand and organic matter. Custom blends or cactus/citrus mixes work well. With a proper soil foundation, your plumerias will thrive and produce an abundance of colorful blooms.