Native Plumeria Map:
Growing in Sweet Home Alabama:
Overwintering Plumeria rubra in Alabama (USDA zones 7b–9a depending on the region) requires some care, especially because Plumeria is tropical and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. Here’s how to safely overwinter it:
If It’s in a Pot:
This is the easiest way to overwinter Plumeria in Alabama.
1. Before First Frost (Usually October–November)
- Stop watering: Gradually reduce watering to encourage the plant to go dormant as nights begin to cool.
- Remove any remaining leaves: Once the plant starts dropping leaves, you can remove the rest gently to prevent rot. Cut the leaf petiole leaving a small stub. The stub will eventually dry and fall off. Cutting in this manner avoids damage to the main stem and lessens the bleeding of the irritating milky sap.
2. Move Indoors
- Bring the pot indoors to a garage, basement, or other dry place with temps ideally between 40–55°F (4–13°C).
- The plant does not need light while dormant, just protection from freezing.
3. Minimal Watering
- Do not water while dormant. Too much moisture can cause root or stem rot.
- You can mist the soil or stems lightly once a month if it’s bone dry, but err on the dry side.
4. Spring Wake-Up (March–April)
- Once temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C), gradually move the plant to more light.
- Resume watering slowly, and start feeding with a balanced fertilizer to promote blooms and healthy growth.
If It’s in the Ground:
Some growers in Alabama plant Plumerias in the ground for the warm season. Planting in the ground rather than in pots avoids blowing or falling over. You’ll need to dig the plants before temperatures consistently dip in the 40s. You never want frost to touch your Plumeria.
Dig It Up:
- Uproot the plant carefully before frost.
- Trim back leaves. Cut leaves leaving a petiole stub. This method avoids damage to the stems.
- Let the roots dry for a few days, then store it bare-root (wrapped in newspaper or in a pot) in a cool, dry place like a garage or basement. Keep the plants off of cool concrete floors by placing them on pallets or tables.
Tips for Success
- Avoid watering or fertilizing during dormancy.
- Don’t panic if stems wrinkle slightly — they usually plump back up in spring.
- If mold or rot appears, trim it off with sterilized pruners and let it callous over.
- Plants need a winter dormant period in order to bloom. The plant must shed all leaves and remain dry.