Winter Dormancy Care: Storing Plumerias Until Spring

When plumeria plants enter their dormant phase during the cooler months, they go into a resting period to conserve energy. For plumeria enthusiasts in colder climates, storing the plant properly through the winter is essential to ensure it survives and thrives in the following growing season. Whether your plumeria is in pots or grown bare-root, the goal is to store it in a cool, dark, and dry environment that mimics its natural winter dormancy.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best methods for storing dormant plumerias, from potted storage to bare-root storage, and how to check for any issues that might arise during the resting period.

1. Storing Potted Plumerias: Tips for Winter Care

If your plumeria is in a container, it can be moved indoors to a cool, dark location for the winter months. This method is often preferred for potted plants as it allows for easier temperature control and protection from frost.

How to Store Potted Plumerias:

• Cool, Dry Location: Choose a spot with temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C–16°C). The space should be cool enough to mimic dormancy, but not freezing.
• Avoid Overwatering: Since plumerias are dormant during the winter, they do not require much water. Water sparingly only if the soil feels dry, but avoid keeping the soil too moist to prevent root rot.
• Minimal Light: While plumeria doesn’t need direct sunlight during dormancy, provide it with some indirect light to prevent excessive desiccation.
• Air Circulation: Ensure the space is well-ventilated to prevent any mold or fungal growth from developing during the dormancy period.

Checking for Issues During Storage:

• Pest Inspection: Periodically check your plumeria for any signs of pests like aphids or mealybugs. If pests are found, treat the plant with natural pest control methods before storage.
• Desiccation Check: Look for any signs of drying out or shriveling. If the plant seems to be drying out too much, mist the leaves lightly with water, but avoid excessive moisture.

2. Bare-Root Storage: The Ideal Method for Cold Climates

If you’re storing a bare-root plumeria, this is often the best method for cold winters, as the plant will be dormant and has no need for the soil in its root ball.

How to Store Bare-Root Plumerias:

1. Prepare the Plant: Gently remove the plumeria from its pot, and carefully shake off the soil from the roots. Trim any damaged or dead roots.
2. Dry the Roots: Place the bare-root plumeria in a cool, dry spot for 2-3 days to allow the roots to dry out slightly and prevent fungal infections. This step is crucial for preventing rot.
3. Storage in a Cool Location: After the roots have dried, store the plant in a paper bag or wrap it in newspaper to keep it dry. Store it in a cool location with temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C–16°C).
4. Avoid Watering: Bare-root plumeria does not require water during dormancy. In fact, watering can encourage root rot, so avoid the temptation to water.

Checking for Issues During Storage:

• Moisture Levels: While plumeria roots should not be exposed to excessive moisture, they should not become completely dry. If the plant seems overly dry, you can lightly mist the roots, but do not soak them.
• Inspect for Pests or Mold: As with potted plants, check the bare-root plumeria for any signs of fungal growth or pests. Treat any issues promptly.

3. General Winter Dormancy Care Tips

Regardless of whether your plumeria is stored in a pot or as a bare root, there are general care guidelines that will help the plant rest comfortably during the colder months:

General Tips for Dormancy Care:

• Temperature Control: Keep plumerias in cool environments, but avoid extreme cold or freezing conditions. Temperatures should ideally stay between 50°F and 60°F (10°C–16°C), though they can tolerate a little cooler if necessary.
• Watering Schedule: Water sparingly during dormancy. For potted plants, ensure the soil is allowed to dry between waterings, and for bare-root plants, avoid watering entirely.
• Avoid Fertilizing: Plumeria does not need fertilizer during its dormant phase. Wait until the plant shows signs of new growth in spring before resuming feeding.

4. Conclusion: Storing Plumeria for a Healthy Spring Reawakening

Properly storing plumeria during the dormancy period is essential for ensuring a healthy reawakening in the spring. Whether you store your plumeria in pots or bare-root, it’s crucial to keep the plant in cool, dry conditions and to avoid overwatering or fertilizing during this period. Inspect regularly for signs of pests or desiccation, and make sure the plant remains protected until the warmth of spring encourages new growth.

By following these storage methods and monitoring the plant’s condition throughout the winter, your plumeria will be ready to thrive when temperatures rise, producing vibrant blooms and strong growth for the upcoming growing season.