Growing Plumeria in Non-Tropical Climates: Strategies for Zone 9, 8, and Below

Plumeria plants are iconic symbols of tropical beauty, with their fragrant blooms and lush foliage. However, for gardeners in temperate climates—especially those in USDA Zones 9, 8, and colder—the challenge of growing plumeria can seem daunting due to cold sensitivity. Plumeria trees are tender tropicals that don’t tolerate prolonged cold and need special care when temperatures drop below 40–45°F (4–7°C).

The good news is that with the right strategies, you can successfully grow plumeria in non-tropical climates. From container gardening and greenhouse cultivation to choosing fast-blooming cultivars and winter storage techniques, there are several methods that can help you enjoy these beautiful plants outside their native habitats. This article will explore the best ways to grow and care for plumeria in colder climates, including tips for keeping them healthy through winter dormancy.

1. Using Pots for Container Gardening: Bringing Plumerias Indoors

One of the most effective ways to grow plumeria in non-tropical climates is by keeping them in pots or containers. Container gardening allows you to move your plants indoors when temperatures dip too low and provide them with warmth and light during the winter months.

Benefits of Container Gardening:

• Mobility: Pots allow you to move your plumeria to protected locations as the weather changes. If temperatures fall below 40°F, you can bring your plumeria indoors to sheltered areas like a sunroom or greenhouse.
• Better Growth Control: Container gardening provides better control over watering, fertilization, and root growth. It also allows you to grow plumeria in areas with less-than-ideal soil by using specially formulated plumeria potting mixes.

Tips for Growing Plumeria in Pots:

• Choose a Large Container: Use a container that’s large enough to accommodate the plumeria’s root system. The container should be at least 12-14 inches in diameter to allow for healthy root expansion.
• Well-Draining Soil: Plumeria requires well-draining soil to thrive in pots. Use a sandy, loamy mix or add perlite and sand to your potting mix for better drainage.
• Watering: Be mindful of overwatering—plumeria in pots dry out faster than those planted in the ground, so ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.

Winter Care for Container-Grown Plumeria:

• Move Indoors: If you live in an area where winter temperatures drop below 40–45°F (4–7°C), bring your potted plumeria inside. Indoor spaces should provide ample sunlight, so place the pot near a south-facing window.
• Cool Indoor Location: In colder climates, keep the plant in a cool room with temperatures between 55°F and 70°F (13–21°C) during dormancy. Avoid placing plumeria in drafty or overly cold areas like basements.

2. Greenhouse Growing: Creating a Controlled Environment

If you’re in a climate zone that has cold winters but still wants to grow plumeria, a greenhouse is an excellent solution. Growing plumeria in a greenhouse allows you to provide the warmth, humidity, and sunlight these tropical plants need to thrive, even during colder months.

Benefits of Growing Plumeria in a Greenhouse:

• Climate Control: A greenhouse allows you to control temperature, humidity, and light exposure, creating an environment that’s ideal for plumeria growth year-round.
• Winter Protection: By moving plumeria into the greenhouse when temperatures drop, you can protect them from frost and cold stress while still allowing them to grow and flower.

Greenhouse Care Tips for Plumeria:

• Temperature Management: Ensure that your greenhouse stays between 60°F and 80°F (16–27°C), which is optimal for plumeria growth.
• Sunlight Exposure: Plumeria plants need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, so place them in a bright spot within the greenhouse.
• Humidity Control: Maintain moderate humidity (around 50–70%) to keep your plumeria healthy and prevent dry leaf tips or pest problems.

3. Choosing Fast-Blooming Cultivars for Shorter Summers

In regions with shorter growing seasons, fast-blooming plumeria cultivars are essential for enjoying flowers before winter sets in. Some plumeria varieties are known for blooming earlier in their growth cycle, making them ideal for cooler climates with limited summer.

Why Fast-Blooming Cultivars Matter:

• Quick Flower Production: Fast-blooming plumerias are bred or selected for their ability to produce flowers quickly. These plants may begin blooming as early as 1–2 years after planting, allowing you to enjoy their beauty during a shorter growing season.
• Variety Selection: Some cultivars are specifically bred to bloom early or bloom more frequently, making them ideal for gardeners in colder regions who want to maximize their growing season.

Example Fast-Blooming Cultivars:

• Plumeria ‘Tahitian’: Known for its early flowering, this cultivar can bloom within 2 years of planting. It’s relatively compact and grows well in cooler climates, provided it’s given enough sunlight and heat.
• Plumeria ‘Dwarf Yellow’: This compact variety flowers early, usually in the first or second year of growth. Its smaller size makes it ideal for container gardening in cooler climates.

4. Winter Storage Techniques: Protecting Plumeria During Dormancy

As plumerias are not frost-tolerant, proper winter storage techniques are critical for keeping your plant healthy during the colder months. There are a few strategies for winter care, depending on your climate.

Winter Care Tips:

• Dormancy Period: Plumeria plants naturally enter dormancy when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). During this period, their growth slows, and they do not require as much water or fertilizer.
• Move Indoors: For those with container-grown plumerias, move the plant indoors to a cool location where it can rest during the winter. Reduce watering and avoid fertilizing until the plant resumes growth in the spring.
• Frost Protection: If you have plumeria planted in the ground, protect it with frost blankets or temporary covers to prevent damage from cold temperatures. If the plumeria is in marginal zones, consider moving it to a more protected area during the coldest part of winter.

Conclusion: Growing Plumeria in Non-Tropical Climates

Growing plumeria in non-tropical climates can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can enjoy these tropical plants even in cooler zones. Whether you choose to grow plumeria in containers, create a greenhouse environment, or select fast-blooming cultivars, there are plenty of ways to ensure these plants thrive in marginal conditions.

Understanding the importance of winter care, container gardening, and microclimates will help you manage plumeria growth in regions with cooler temperatures, extending your growing season and allowing you to enjoy their vibrant beauty year-round.