Embark on your journey into the enchanting world of plumerias with ‘The Plumeria Beginners Guide: Plumeria 101.’
How Can I Choose Plumeria Varieties for a Hummingbird Garden?
How Can I Choose Plumeria Varieties for a Hummingbird Garden?
Introduction
Creating a hummingbird garden is an excellent way to attract these captivating creatures to your outdoor space. Although hummingbirds are not natural pollinators for plumeria, you can still design a landscape that appeals to these birds while incorporating Plumeria plants for their aesthetic and fragrant appeal. This guide will explore how to select the best Plumeria varieties to complement a hummingbird garden.
Hummingbird-Friendly Landscape Elements
Colors
Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to bright red, orange, and pink colors. While selecting Plumeria, consider varieties that feature these colors to catch the eye of hummingbirds.
Nectar Sources
Since Plumeria doesn’t serve as a nectar source for hummingbirds, it’s essential to include other plants in your garden that do. Plants like trumpet creeper, red hot poker, and hibiscus are good examples.
Feeders
Hummingbird feeders filled with sugar water can also serve as a supplement to natural nectar sources.
Plumeria Varieties that Complement a Hummingbird Garden
Plumeria rubra ‘Celadine’
This variety features vibrant yellow flowers, which can add a contrasting color to the reds and oranges that attract hummingbirds.
Plumeria obtusa ‘Singapore’
This white-flowered variety is evergreen and provides a nice backdrop to the brighter colors in your garden.
Plumeria pudica
Another evergreen variety, it features unique fiddle-shaped leaves that add texture and interest to the garden setting.
Additional Considerations
Height and Structure
Consider the mature height of the Plumeria varieties when planning your garden. Plumeria can be tall, so they may be best suited for the back of a garden bed where they won’t obscure shorter plants that hummingbirds might feed on.
Bloom Time
It’s worth noting when each variety of Plumeria is expected to bloom. This will help you create a garden with sequential blooming, providing color and interest throughout the season.
Optimal Temperature Range
The ideal temperature for growing plumeria ranges from 65-90°F (18-32°C). Ensure that your selected varieties can thrive in your climate.
Fertilization: Feeding Your Plumeria
Type of Fertilizer Recommended
A balanced fertilizer with micronutrients is best for plumeria. The optimal N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) ratio might look like 11-11-13 or similar.
Fertilization Schedule
During the growing season, apply fertilizer as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Cut back on feeding as the plant moves towards dormancy in the late fall and winter.
Conclusion
Although hummingbirds are not natural pollinators for Plumeria, you can still create a visually cohesive and attractive garden that serves the needs of these charming birds. By selecting Plumeria varieties that offer a range of colors and textures and by including other hummingbird-friendly plants, your garden will be a haven for both flora and fauna.
For more ideas on creating a hummingbird-friendly garden with Plumeria, visit PlumeriaCareGuide.com.