Get me through the winter

20 years ago

Okay, I have a dark red plumaria that is about five years old and perhaps four foot tall, maybe a little more?

Last winter, I believe it got too cold and shriveled up. At the time there were seven separate branches and as spring progressed and I was noticing other plants that were beginning to sprout, I snapped off the decayed parts several times and started cutting back until I got a flow of white sap. Total pruning amounted to the entire years growth, BUT it started growing, a little late into the season.

Every branch split and this year I had (I think) 25 separate branches from the original seven, and the growth was better than previous years, in some cases almost two feet. So, I was very relieved, but I didn't have a single inflow this year. Oh, by the way, it's in the ground.

Now, I want to pay (more) attention to the weather, because I also lost 75% of my staghorns.

The question is; how can I help protect my in ground plumaria? I was thinking that if I just covered or bagged the various branches with seven black garden trash bags, it might help, if I get a freeze, this year? So far, it has been mild, overnight lows in mid 40s, but the leaves are starting to drop.

Thanks, LB

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Comments (5)

mikeod
20 years ago
A mature plumeria can withstand some cold temps without damage, but the tips are most sensitive. Freezing temperatures will damage or kill the plant. I built a frame out of PVC pipe and cover my large plant when the temps are going to be in the 30's. I use a plastic tarp, making sure it doesn't touch any part of the plant. I can remove the tarp if the temps are going to be better, but I leave the frame around the plant in case the temps dip again. Some wrap Christmas lights around the branches and light them to warm the tree if it is cold. Some even dig up their trees and store them bare root over the winter.

Hope this helps.
Mike
lbinupland_zone_9
Original Author
20 years ago
Well, I thought that was a good idea so I went out and bought four lengths of 3/4" PVC and a bunch of 90Âºs and tees. Been set up for a month or so, looks great, but never got lower than 40Âº and now it's looking like spring is here? Tips are beginning to sprout. I'm not dismantling my structure, yet. Oh well, I would have been ready, if we had some freezing nights.
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zarro
20 years ago
Well, It's my first one and it's only about 12" tall.
Is it to small to pruning?
I am also growing indoors because I live in Canada, hoping you can help with some tips.
Thanks,
Marina
lbinupland_zone_9
Original Author
20 years ago
I'm no expert, but I can't recommend any pruning on a twelve inch plant. Just leave it be, leaves fall when they are ready and it will begin sprouting when the weather warms up....mine already are, so I hope we don't get a freeze? Put your plant where it gets a lot of sun and water when it needs it. I use Miricle Grow and epsom salt occasionally. LB
zarro
20 years ago
Great thanks, I will treat with extra care, it's not easy to find this plant here. I am not sure how to use epson salt, could you be more specific as to amount and how often?
Marina