Welcome to the Plumeria Cultivation & Planting Guide. This is your definitive starting point for turning rooted cuttings, seedlings, or mature specimens into thriving, bloom-laden trees. Inside, you’ll learn how to choose the ideal micro-climate. You will craft well-draining soil mixes. Mastering container-versus-in-ground decisions is also included. You will time each planting task to your growing zone. Step-by-step instructions guide each aspect of planting. Troubleshooting checkpoints help resolve common issues. Nutrition tips based on science ensure your plumeria has strong roots, vigorous growth, and abundant flowers. Whether you garden on a balcony or use raised beds, this guide offers decades of practical experience. It is also helpful if you maintain a full grove. It turns that knowledge into practical, easy-to-follow advice. The guide empowers beginners and seasoned collectors alike to cultivate with confidence.
Excalibur IX vs. VI: Slow Release Showdown
Excalibur IX vs. VI: Slow Release Showdown
Choosing the Best Long-Term Fertilizer for Your Plumeria’s Needs
For plumeria growers, Excalibur Fertilizer is a trusted name synonymous with consistent performance and tailored nutrition. Developed specifically for plumeria, Excalibur VI and Excalibur IX offer slow-release nutrient delivery without the risk of fertilizer burn or salt buildup. But which one is best for your situation?
This guide offers a detailed comparison of Excalibur VI (6-month release) vs. Excalibur IX (9-month release) to help you choose the best formulation based on your climate, growing method, and seasonal strategy.
Why Use Excalibur?
Excalibur is a slow-release granular fertilizer engineered with the optimal NPK ratio for plumeria, along with a complete micronutrient package. Key benefits:
- Low salt index (won’t burn roots)
- Fungus-free coating (no slimy breakdown)
- Contains micronutrients (including calcium, magnesium, and iron)
- Buffered for pine bark-based mixes
- Developed with input from Florida Colors Nursery’s founders for real-world performance
Quick Specs Comparison
| Feature | Excalibur VI | Excalibur IX |
|---|---|---|
| Release Duration | 6 months | 9 months |
| Best Use Period | Early spring, mid-season refresh | Spring planting, long-season feed |
| Granule Size | Fine to medium | Medium to coarse |
| Ideal For | Smaller pots, high-heat zones, quick growth | Large containers, in-ground beds, growers who don’t repot annually |
| NPK Ratio | 11-11-14 with micros | 11-11-14 with micros |
| Micronutrients | Yes (chelated) | Yes (chelated) |
| Cost per lb | Slightly lower | Slightly higher |
When to Use Excalibur VI
Excalibur VI is designed for growers who:
- Repot plants every spring or summer
- Grow in high-heat or high-rainfall climates (shorter release is safer)
- Use 1–5 gallon containers or rotate plants quickly
- Want to boost nutrient levels mid-season (e.g., May–July)
- Prefer to refresh their feeding every 6 months
✅ Ideal Applications:
- Rooted cuttings and first-year seedlings
- Small and medium containers
- Supplemental mid-season application after leaching
- Overwintered plants are just waking up in spring
When to Use Excalibur IX
Excalibur IX is formulated for long-term feeding and extended root-zone stability:
- Ideal for larger pots (5+ gallons) and in-ground beds
- Perfect for growers who want to “set it and forget it.”
- Suited to moderate, steady climates (not extreme tropical rainfall)
- Best for mature plants and blooming stock
✅ Ideal Applications:
- Plants you repot every 12–18 months
- In-ground plumeria groves or raised beds
- Nursery production with long container cycles
- Fall application for root support through dormancy
Side-by-Side Use Scenarios
| Grower Situation | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Matches the spring-to-summer growth phase | Excalibur VI | Safer duration, smaller volume |
| Newly rooted cutting in a 1-gallon pot | Excalibur IX | Long-term release without reapplying |
| Wet tropical summer | Excalibur VI | Prevents overfeeding in soggy conditions |
| Mature tree in a 10-gallon container | Excalibur VI | Supports a full season of root and bloom development |
| In-ground grove planting | Excalibur IX | Supports full season of root and bloom development |
| Adding fertilizer mid-July | Excalibur VI | Ends by fall dormancy without forcing growth late |
Can You Use Both?
✅ Yes. Many growers use both formulations as part of a seasonal feeding plan:
- Spring: Apply Excalibur IX to larger trees or in-ground beds
- Mid-Season: Supplement smaller plants or containers with Excalibur VI
- Fall (optional): Use Excalibur Boost (2–3 month formula) or light VI for root prep
This flexible strategy supports both immediate and extended feeding without risk of overloading any one plant.
Fertilizer Safety & Compatibility
| Feature | Excalibur VI & IX |
|---|---|
| Safe for roots and young plants | ✅ |
| Compatible with bark-based mixes | ✅ |
| Low salt, pH-neutral | ✅ |
| Won’t clump or mold | ✅ |
| Supports mycorrhizae and microbial life | ✅ |
Conclusion
Both Excalibur VI and IX are exceptional slow-release fertilizers tailored for plumeria, but your plant’s size, pot type, and growing cycle should guide your choice.
- Use Excalibur VI for flexible seasonal feeding in containers or high-heat regions.
- Use Excalibur IX for long-term stability in larger pots or in-ground beds.
- Or combine both in a smart seasonal rotation to support rooting, growth, and blooming all year.
With either formula, you’re giving your plumeria exactly what they need, without the risk of burn or nutrient imbalance.