Grow Light for Plumeria in Pots Through Winter
A grow light for plumeria helps potted frangipani hold on through a long indoor winter. University of Wisconsin Madison Extension notes plumeria need bright sun plus warm temperatures. In cold areas it advises growing them in containers brought inside when nights drop to the 40s F, where a lamp adds light.
The short answer
Plumeria needs bright sun, warmth plus a dry spell between waterings. University of Wisconsin Madison Extension advises bringing potted plants inside when nights fall to the 40s F. Under lights, University of Minnesota Extension lists 6 to 12 inches for flowering houseplants. Water less in cool months, since wet soil leads to root rot.
How much light does plumeria need indoors?
Wisconsin Extension stresses bright sun plus warmth for plumeria. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions notes plumeria grows in full sun. A sunny window plus a lamp comes closest to that indoors.
| Factor | Target | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright sun | Add a lamp in winter |
| Distance | 6 to 12 inches for flowering plants | Raise it if leaves bleach |
| Water | Dry between waterings | Water less when cool |
| Move inside | Nights in the 40s F | Bring pots in during autumn |
Source: University of Wisconsin Madison Extension plus University of Minnesota Extension.
Will plumeria lose leaves indoors?
Often, yes. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions notes most plumeria in Florida go dormant plus lose leaves in winter. Bare stems stay green plus still photosynthesize, it notes. University of Wisconsin Madison Extension notes P. rubra types are deciduous while white flowered species are evergreen.
How long should the light run?
University of Minnesota Extension advises a timer plus lists flowering houseplants among plants that need longer light hours. University of Missouri Extension advises 16 to 18 hours a day with no outdoor light plus 12 to 14 hours when some window light reaches the plant.
How to: step by step
- Bring the pot inside when nights reach the 40s F.
- Set it in the sunniest window.
- Hang an LED 6 to 12 inches above the tips.
- Run it on a timer for steady days.
- Let the mix dry between waterings.
- Return it outside when the weather warms.
Troubleshooting
Soft dark stem base: too much water. Water less plus let the mix dry.
Leaves drop in winter: normal dormancy for deciduous types. Water lightly.
Pale stretched growth: too little light. Lower the lamp or add hours.
For more on lighting see grow lights for cannabis, led light distance cannabis, grow light timers plus cannabis seeds. Kind Seed Co also stocks seeds for indoor growers.
Sources
- Plumeria, University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension
- Plumeria, UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
- Lighting indoor houseplants (G6515), University of Missouri Extension
- Lighting for indoor plants and starting seeds, University of Minnesota Extension
FAQ
Do plumeria need light while dormant?
Bare stems can still photosynthesize. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions notes the stems stay green plus carry out photosynthesis when the leaves are gone. A bright window or a lamp helps the plant hold up until spring. Water sparingly during this rest so the roots do not sit wet.
How do I water plumeria indoors in winter?
University of Wisconsin Madison Extension notes overwatering can cause root rot plus plant death. It advises letting the mix dry between waterings plus watering less often when temperatures are cooler. Use a coarse mix such as cactus mix or potting mix amended with perlite or pumice.
Which potting mix suits plumeria in pots?
University of Wisconsin Madison Extension advises a coarse, well draining mix. Cactus mix works, as does regular potting mix amended with pumice, poultry grit or perlite. It notes the soil should not dry out completely or stay soggy, so pick a pot with drainage holes.
When should I fertilize plumeria?
University of Wisconsin Madison Extension advises frequent feeding during the growing season with a high phosphorus fertilizer to encourage flowering. It advises against fertilizing at other times of the year. Skip feeding while the plant rests indoors in winter plus start again in spring.
What pests show up on plumeria indoors?
University of Wisconsin Madison Extension notes plumeria can host whiteflies plus mealybugs. It notes they are very susceptible to spider mites. Insecticidal soap can control these pests. Look at leaf undersides plus stem tips often while the plant sits indoors under lights.
