Moving Plumeria Plants
Established plants may suddenly no longer fit where they were growing. If a mature plant needs to be moved, plan a season ahead. At this time, cut around the root mass to sever some of the larger roots–also known as root pruning. This will stimulate new root growth, but roots will be easier to manage the next year when the plant is moved. Moving plumeria plants that are large can take a couple of gardeners. The season after cutting the roots, water the plant well the day before transplant. Spring is when to move a plumeria because the plant is just beginning active growing and it will be less likely to suffer from shock when lifted. Dig around the root zone and lift the plant onto a tarp. Wrap the tarp around the roots to keep moisture in. Prepare the new bed by digging a hole twice as wide and deep as the root mass. Fill the bottom of the hole with loose soil in a cone shape and settle the roots on top of this. Back fill and press soil around the roots. Water the plant in well.
How to Transplant Plumeria Cuttings
Cuttings are the most common method of propagation because they establish quickly and the new plants are true to the parent. If all goes well, new cuttings are ready to transplant in 30 to 45 days. The cutting should have several pairs of true leaves prior to moving. If you are simply moving the plant to a larger container, a nice cactus soil will provide a good growth medium. In-ground planting spaces need to be amended with compost and plenty of grit to keep soil porous. Gently loosen the soil around the cutting and remove it from the pot, being careful not to damage the small roots. Situate the cutting in the container at the same height and depth at which it was growing and fill around with the cactus soil. In-ground plants should be installed in a hole that is twice as deep and wide but then filled to just accommodate the roots. This looser region allows the plant roots to easily spread as they grow.
Care After Transplanting a Plumeria
Once plumeria transplanting is complete, the plant will need to be well watered to settle the soil. Do not water again until soil is dry. Place newly potted cuttings in a sunny location with some protection from the hottest rays of the day. After 30 days, fertilize with 10-50-10 ratio fertilizer. Water this in well. Spread fine bark mulch around the base of the plant to prevent weeds and moisture loss. Cuttings may require staking at the outset. Once rooting has established, the stake may be removed. Larger plants should be pruned the next year after blooming. This will help open the interior, increasing air and minimizing disease and pests. Feed plumeria once annually at the beginning of the growing season. This will encourage the beautiful, scented blooms and healthy, glossy foliage.
