Growing Plumeria Plants & Plumeria Flowers

The flowers of Plumeria 'India' are yellow to orange enhanced by strong red veining.

The flowers are of heavy texture with good keeping quality.

Scent of the flowers is strong and sweet.

Plumeria 'India' is a fast growing plant with strong and thick branches.

The following picture shows Plumeria 'India' flowering on May 15, 2012 in Chicago, plant hardiness zone 5.

This plumeria plant, with no inflorescence showing, was received and planted on April 4, 2012 as an unrooted cutting.

Soon after planting the inflorescence, flower stalk, emerged and continued to develop.

As of May 15, 2012 Plumeria 'India' is anchored in the pot indicating root development.

Copyright © Bob Walsh
www.HowToGrowPlumeriaFrangipani.com

It is very disheartening to check on newly planted plumeria cuttings and plumeria plants just to discover that they have been knocked out of their pots either by nature.... strong winds, animals.... pets, or even by accident.... the gardener himself or herself knocking it over .

The initial roots of plumeria cuttings tend to be very brittle and the slightest movement or shift of the cutting from its planted position may break the newly developed roots. The roots get stronger as they mature over time.

Newly planted plumeria cuttings have no means of staying steady and balanced when planted either in the ground or in pots.

It is therefore very important to stake plumeria cuttings at planting time. This is usually done by inserting a plant stake right next to the cutting itself and tying the cutting to the stake with tie-ups which are readily available for purchase at hardware stores and garden centers.

It's best to tie the plumeria cutting at strategic places along the cutting.... (1) just above soil level .... (2) just below the tip, and...(3) in the middle of the cutting to the stake making sure the cutting is firmly anchored in the pot or in the ground.

Some plumeria cutting may dehydrate during the rooting process depending on the rooting method that is used. If dehydration occurs, causing the cutting to shrink in size and the tie-ups to loosen, then one needs to re-adjust the tie-ups or apply new ones to re-establish
secure and proper placement.

But what can be done if the cutting is tall and has multiple branches?

In this case, it is best to start staking the plumeria cutting at the main stem and tie it to the plant stake as described above.

Depending on the number of branches and their individual height above the soil level.... staking each branch with a proper length plant stake and tying them just below the tip of each branch to the stake secures the cutting in the pot or in the ground.

The picture above shows one cutting of Plumeria 'Teresa Wilder' I recently planted. The main stem is tied to a stake and each of the two top branches is secured tightly to an individual plant stake as well. This cutting is unable to move even if I tilt the pot at an angle of 45 degrees.

The same principle of staking applies when planting rooted plumeria plants.

I recommend inserting the plant stake(s) before covering the roots with the planting medium. By gently inserting the stake(s) between the roots one avoids injuring the roots which might occur when the plant stake(s) is inserted after the roots have been covered with the potting medium.

By following staking practices for plumeria cuttings and plants gardeners avoid unnecessary delays in enjoying their beautiful scented plumeria flowers.

Copyright © Bob Walsh
www.HowToGrowPlumeriaFrangipani.com

Plumeria growers worldwide, especially in temperate climates, are looking for dwarf and compact varieties to grow in pots. This allows for easy handling of the plants when cooler weather arrives and the plants need to be brought indoors to continue to bloom and grow.

What exactly would be considered a dwarf plumeria plant? This question might be answered by plumeria growers in different ways.

Some consider plumeria plants to be dwarfs as long as they don't exceed a height of eight feet which might be considered tall but definitely not dwarf by others.

In recent years many dwarf plumeria plants have been introduced to the public with Plumeria rubra 'Devine' and 'Mini White' being labeled "true miniatures". These two miniatures are very floriferous with flowering occuring at sometimes one inch or less from the last flowering point on the plant. Generally, there are more than forty growing tips, branches, on one average two foot tall 'Divine' plant.

Plumeria obtusa 'Dwarf Singapore Pink' is considered a true dwarf plant which, even under ideal conditions, rarely grows more than six to eight inches per year. 'Dwarf Singapore Pink' develops several branches after each inflorescence starts to develop. The leaves of "Dwarf Singapore Pink' are oblong and have a shiny green color. The white flowers with a yellow center have a sweet fragrance. With proper growing conditions, 'Dwarf Singapore Pink' grows and flowers throughout the year.

'Dwarf Singapore' has white, cup-shaped flowers with a lemony fragrance. It grows and flowers, like 'Dwarf Singapore Pink', throughout the year if provided with the right growing conditions.

'Dwarf Deciduous', an easy to grow plumeria, produces white flowers with a golden center. The fragrance of the flowers is strong and reminds one of citrus. Plumeria obtusa 'Dwarf Deciduous' is a very floriferous plant with many flowers opening at the same time resulting in full inflorescences, flower stalks.

'Dwarf Richard Criley', an evergreen variety, produces flowers which are similar in shape to 'Dwarf Singapore Pink', but larger in diameter. 'Dwarf Richard Criley' produces rainbow colored flowers with an orange center that bleeds into the petals. The flowers have a light spicy fragrance.

'Dwarf Siam Yellow' has uniquely crinckled glossy leaves. The flowers are yellow with a sweet fragrance. 'Dwarf Siam Yellow' is a slow grower.

These are some plumeria plants which are considered "dwarfs". Select hand pollination results in new releases of dwarf varieties each year.

Compact plants are not necessarily classified as dwarf plants.

But what entitles plumeria plants to be classified as compact plants?

Plumeria can be considered compact when they bloom and branch at short distances resulting in a many branched tree.

Plumeria 'Pink Pansy' has white pansy shaped flowers with a golden yellow center and marked pink edging. The fragrance of these flowers is very sweet. 'Pink Pansy' is a very compact grower and great candidate for container gardening as it can be kept on the small side, four to six feet, with proper pruning.

'Penang Peach', named after the Malaysian island of Penang, is another compact growing variety. The flowers of 'Penang Peach' are yellow to orange, have a very sweet fragrance and excellent keeping quality. One distinct characteristic of 'Penang Peach' is that the leaves show a hook at the tip.

'Yellow Jack Compact' produces three to four inch yellow flowers with small white edging. The petals reflex, bend backwards, creating a lovely effect. The fragrance is very sweet. 'Yellow Jack Compact' is a very compact growing tree.

As time goes on more and more dwarf and compact plumeria varieties with outstanding characteristics, like big colorful flowers with good keeping quality, will be developed to bring joy to both indoor and outdoor gardeners.

Copyright @ Bob Walsh
www.HowToGrowPlumeriaFrangipani.com

Planting plumeria seeds is an inexpensive way to start plumeria plants or increase one's collection.

Copyright © Bob Walsh

Gardenia is a genus of flowering plants comprised of about 142 species belonging to the family of Rubiaceae. Gardenia plants are indigenous to the tropical and subtropical areas of Africa, Asia and Australia.

Gardenias are evergreen shrubs which can grow from two to twenty feet or more in height in their natural habitat. The leaves are glossy, dark green growing from about one to ten inches long depending on the species. Gardenia flowers are white or yellow in color and develop either a single or a cluster of blossoms. The flowers of many species are known for their intoxicating sweet scent.

Gardenia jasminoides, also known as Gardenia grandiflora, originated in Asia. In China Gardenia jasminoides is called Zhi zi and in Japan it is called Kuchinasi. The yellow flowers are used in both countries as dye for clothes and food. It has been grown in China for more than one thousand years and has been introduced to England in the 18th century. Several hybrids have been created, including low growing plants with large flowers. The white flowers are large and highly fragrant. Several decades ago the flowers were worn by men as boutonnieres on special occasions. Jazz singer Billie Holiday called gardenia flowers her trademark by wearing them in her hair. Today the flowers are still a favorite choice for weddings and proms.

Gardenia jasminoides is considered a difficult plant to take care of. Many times gardenia plants with many buds are bought and the buyer eagerly awaits the opening of the flowers. But many times the buds drop without further development. When purchasing gardenia plants it's better to start with small plants without buds. The plants need some time to adjust to the environment in their new home. Once the plants have adjusted to their new home, flower buds start to develop into beautiful, sweetly scented gardenia flowers.

Gardenia taitensis, also called Tahitian Gardenia and Tiare Flower, is one of only a few plants indigenous to Polynesia. This evergreen tropical shrub can grow as tall as twelve feet. The flowers are white, composed of five to nine petals and very fragrant.

Inhabitants of Polynesia use these highly fragrant flowers as necklaces. These floral necklaces are called "Ei" on the Cook Islands, "Hei" on Tahiti and "Lei" on Hawaii.

On some Pacific islands wearing these gardenia flowers indicates one's relationship status. When the flower is worn on the right ear, the person is available. When the flower is worn on the left ear, the person is taken.

The flowers of Gardenia taitensis are used to make Monoi Tiare Tahiti, which is a perfume oil, by infusing the flowers in coconut oil. This process is called "Enfleurage". The process uses odorless fats that are solid at room temperature to capture the fragrant compounds released by plants.

In addition, the flowers are also used in highly priced perfumes, like Tiare by Ormonde Jayne and Tiare by Chantecaille.

Other popular Gardenia species include Gardenia brighamii, Gardenia cornuta and Gardenia nitida, to name a few.

Gardenia plants prefer partial sun and should be protected from the hot afternoon sun during the summer months. They grow and flower well under grow lights where night temperatures should not go below 60 to 65 degrees which translates to 15 to 18 degrees Celsius.

Gardenia plants are prone to root disease. Growing them in clay pots can reduce the risk as the potting medium dries out faster in clay pots. Gardenia plants prefer an acidic potting medium, soil, meaning the soil ph is less than 7. If the potting medium is not acid enough, many nutrients, including iron, cannot be absorbed by the roots and the plants develop a condition, called Chlorosis, which expresses itself in yellowing of the leaves. Some gardeners pour a small amount of vinegar at the top of the soil to prevent or treat mild cases of Chlorosis.

It is best to water the plants when the surface of the potting medium looks and feels dry. It is recommended to avoid using "hard" tap water. If the tap water is very "hard", adding some vinegar to the watering can lowers the ph level of the water. When watering it is important to water the plants thoroughly until water drips through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. The gardener needs to make sure that no water remains in the saucer after the drainage process is complete.

When fertilizing gardenia plants any balanced fertilizer at one quarter strength of the recommended dosage can be used. Using a fertilizer designed for acid loving plants reduces the risk of Chlorosis.

Humidity should be kept at 50% or higher. If humidity is low, misting the plants frequently or using a humidifier greatly benefits gardenia plants.

When proven and tested guidelines are followed, gardenia plants with their highly fragrant flowers bring years of enjoyment to the outdoor and indoor gardener.

Copyright © Bob Walsh

The history of roses begins long before one would imagine. Roses were here long before the first human beings set eyes on them, fell in love with them and began writing about the genus Rosa in song and poetry that celebrated their romantic beauty in color and form. They were here millions of years before the first gardeners began creating the world renowned public and private gardens that further enriched humanity's love affair with the 150 species that were spread throughout the Northern Hemisphere of planet earth.

One of the first fossil finds was right here in the United States where the genus Rosa left an imprint on a slate deposit in the Florissant Fossil Beds in Colorado dating back forty million years ago. Other fossil finds from the Oregon and Montana area of our country date some 35 million years ago.

When rose gardeners and afficionados across the United States begin preparing their gardens and/or attending the Spring Flower Shows that highlight the latest Floribunda, Grandiflora, Hybrid Tea and Polyantha rose plants, may these fossil finds make an imprint on their mind on what a special plant and flower they are working with.

It is believed that the genus Rosa originated in central Asia some 60 to 70 million years ago and from there spread over the entire Northern Hemisphere. Roses grew wild throughout the Northern Hemisphere in what we now call Asia, Europe, Northern Africa and North America. Roses grow wild from as far north as Alaska and Norway and as far south as Mexico and Egypt.

With the arrival of human beings the garden cultivation of roses began some 5,000 years ago, probably in the area of China. Confucius, about 500 B.C., wrote about roses growing in the Imperial Gardens and noted that the library of the Chinese emperor contained hundreds of books about roses.

In the ancient Middle Eastern and Western civilizations the oldest identifiable rose today, Rosa gallica, whose exact origin is unclear, traces its appearance to the twelfth century B.C. where the Persians first connected the rose to be a symbol of love.

Rosa damascena, Damask rose, whose well-known fragrance is a rich part of the rose plant history, dates back to 900 B.C. The ancient civilizations of the Phoenicans, Minoans, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and the surrounding mediterranean cultures all grew and traded in roses. These traveled trading routes made the genus Rosa one of the most desirable plants to have that created the beautifully renown gardens for the most famous leaders of the world at that time, including Alexander the Great, King of Macedonia. Alexander the Great is credited for introducing cultivated roses into Europe, and maybe North Africa as well. Throughout the history of Western Civilization the rich and famous cultivated roses, including Charlemagne, the Holy Roman Emperor, who grew roses on the palace grounds at Aix-la-Chapelle in Aachen, Germany.

The Greek scientist, educator and writer Theophratus is credited with compiling the first known detailed botanical description of roses around 300 B.C. for the Western Civilization. His excellent work, Historia Plantis, gained him the title "father of botany". This work was the primer for all cataloging of roses, even for today's rose plants, including Floribunda, Grandiflora, Hybrid Tea and Polyantha roses.

The significant discovery of the North African rose plant, Rosa damascena semperflorens, Autumn Damask, around 50 B.C. is considered one of the first hybrids. It is believed to be a cross between Rosa gallica and Rosa moschata, the musk rose. It was the first and only repeating bloomer known to Western Civilization until the 18th and 19th centuries when roses from China were introduced to Europe. It also may have been the first naturally cross-pollinated rose plant.

Another important early rose is Rosa alba, the white rose, made famous in the War of Roses by the House of York, England, in the Fifteenth Century. Rosa alba and its relative roses are believed to have been formed from some combination of the following roses, including Rosa gallica, Rosa damascena, Rosa canina and Rosa corymbifera.

Through travel, trade and conquests these varieties of Rosa alba spread throughout the regions of the Mediterranean and the Middle East. The rose and rose gardens had a prominent place in the Roman Empire where public records reveal that there were some 2000 public gardens throughout Rome before it collapsed in 476 A.D.

It was the Benedictine Monks in their monasteries that are in a large part responsible for keeping the roses thriving during the tumultuous post Roman Empire years throughout Europe with the continuous onslaught of invading Barbarian forces of the Visogoths, Huns, Vandals and others. Benedictine Monks in particular became the center of botanical research growing and studying plants for a variety of medicinal purposes.

The history of rose plants, Floribunda, Grandiflora, Hybrid Tea and Polyantha roses Part Two will continue in the 17th Century when the interest in the genus Rosa was rekindled with new discoveries from around the world and increased with the maritime expeditions of the English, French, Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish to the New World and Far East.

Copyright © Bob Walsh
www.HowToGrowPlumeriaFrangipani.com

One of the quickest ways to enjoy plumeria flowers is to plant plumeria cuttings. It cannot be emphasized enough to purchase plumeria cuttings only from reputable retailers to get good quality. Prices vary, and prices do not always translate into quality. Higher prices though often reflect well known plumeria varieties.

One of the big advantages of propagating plumeria plants from cuttings is that the buyer is able to choose very specifically the plant he/she wants, based on the color, growth habits, fragrance or a number of other desirable traits that are present in any particular plumeria variety.
Cuttings should be at least 12 inches in length and taken from mature wood. Immature cuttings taken from green wood are very hard to root even though it can be done.

Certain varieties of Plumeria obtusa and some red colored plumerias are harder to root and may take longer to develop their root system.
Discuss with the plumeria retailer the shipping arrangements that will guarantee that your quality plumeria cutting will arrive in good condition particularly during the colder months of the year.

While awaiting the arrival of your newly ordered cutting take the time to get all the necessary equipment to properly plant the plumeria cutting.
Before planting the cutting it is recommended to have all necessary items prepared,

Based on the size of the plumeria cutting one ordered, one needs to have a container large enough to accommodate the cutting as well as allowing room for the roots to develop and grow. A proper size container is also needed for the stability of the cutting.

The potting medium has to be premixed to provide excellent drainage. Otherwise, the cutting may rot if the medium retains too much moisture.
After the pot has been filled with the premixed potting medium, water it thoroughly and make sure all the water has drained prior to planting the cutting.

Now it is time to plant the cutting. It is important not to plant the cutting too deep for a variety of reasons. Plumeria cuttings develop roots only at the very bottom of the cutting.

The next step is to wet the bottom of the cutting with lukewarm water, shake off any excess water, insert the cutting in the rooting hormone, and insert it into the potting medium. Add the plant stake next to the plumeria cutting and tie the cutting to the plant stake with tie-ups.
The first step in the rooting process is the development of callus tissue through which the roots emerge. It is crucial at this time of the rooting process not to water the cutting to avoid stem rot.

Plumeria cuttings have such a strong life force in them that they start to develop leaves and inflorescenses without even having started the rooting process. One can find out if any roots have developed by giving the cutting a light tug to test for resistance. Any resistance indicates some root development.

During this time instead of watering the cutting, mist the cutting daily to prevent it from dehydrating.

Plumeria cuttings may root within weeks or may take several months to develop roots depending on the particular plumeria variety. Following tried and tested methods is the best insurance for one's own success in rooting plumeria cuttings, even the difficult ones. Enjoy the fruits of your labors and the beauty and fragrance of your newly grown plumeria plant for years to come!

Copyright © Bob Walsh

Plumeria cuttings which are planted using the egg method correctly develop a massive root system in record time. It is no longer necessary to sacrifice any inflorescences that develop during the rooting process. Inflorescences and roots develop simultaneously.

Plumeria plants which are planted applying the egg method correctly show lush growth and massive flower production. The keeping quality of the flowers increases as well which means the flowers stay fresh longer.

But what exactly is the egg method which has been used in agriculture for many years to increase the production of vegetables?

The egg method which is based on anaerobically fermenting eggs and probiotics not only benefits plumeria cuttings and plumeria plants but many other tropical plants as well, including bananas, gingers, heliconias, hibiscus and many more.

The egg itself is one powerhouse of nutrients.

The egg shell which has about 9000 pores serves as a permeable membrane for nutrients and moisture. 95% of the egg shell is made up of calcium carbonate. Minerals, such as calcium phosphate and magnesium carbonate make up the remaining 5%.

The albumen is made up of 90% water and seven major proteins as stated by the Department of Agriculture's National Nutrient Database. The albumen in fresh eggs contains carbon dioxide which passes through the egg shell as the egg ages. 50 mg of Sulfur are contained in the albumen.

All vitamins found in an egg are contained in the egg yolk, including several B-vitamins as well as vitamin A, D, and E. The egg yolk also contains many antioxidants and trace amounts of Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and other metals. In addition, the egg yolk contains about 25 mg of Sulfur.

According to Biofeed Probiotics 'plant stimulants, plant hormones, are produced during the metabolism of some bacteria, yeasts, molds, and cyanobacteria', also known as blue-green algae and blue-green bacteria.

These plant stimulants, plant hormones, include auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, florigen and salicylic acid.

Auxins are named for the greek word "auxein" meaning to grow or to increase. Auxins were the first of the major plant hormones to be discovered. How auxins are distributed within plants is one major factor for plant growth. The distribution of auxins throughout plants is accomplished by the well executed transport of auxin molecules. Auxins usually work with or against other plant hormones that is most advantageous for the plant.

Gibberellins were first discovered by Eiichi Kurosawa, a Japanese scientist, in 1926. Gibberellins stimulate budding, cell elongation, dormancy, flowering and seed germination.

Cytokinins promote cell division in plant roots and shoots. This process is called "cytokinesis". The effects of cytokinins were first discovered by Swedish born plant physiologist Folke Skoog at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Cytokinins are involved in many plant processes, including cell division, root and shoot development. Cytokinins are known to regulate axillary bud growth, lateral or side shoots. In addition, cytokinins also affect apical dominance which is the inhibition of growth of lateral buds, side shoots, by the terminal bud of a plant shoot.

Cytokinins are usually produced in roots, young fruits and seeds. The balance of cytokinins and auxins determines what regenerates.

Florigen was first described in 1937 by Mikhail Chailakhyan, a Russian scientist. Florigen molecules, produced in the leaves, are responsible for controlling flowering in plants.

Salicylic acid, which is used for rooting, derives its name from the Latin word "salix" meaning "willow tree". Salicylic acid plays part in plants' photosynthesis, transpiration and resistance to pathogens which are bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms that can cause diseases.
All these processes are important to understand how plumeria and tropical plants develop.

An exact scientific defined process of the egg method, when correctly applied, is not clearly written in a scientific formula anywhere. But the phenomenal results speak for themselves.

Copyright © Bob Walsh

The flowers of Plumeria 'Kimo' are a glowing mix of apricot and orange with pink bands on the back. The petals overlap so heavily that they almost form a circle. Plumeria 'Kimo' is considered a chameleon as the appearance of the flowers changes with weather conditions. The flowers, which have a sweet fragrance, are close to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter and have a very good keeping quality. Plumeria 'Kimo' is known for its heavy flower production over a long period of time.

Starting plumeria plants from seeds is a fun and rather inexpensive way to increase your plumeria collection.
But what are the advantages and disadvantages of starting plumeria plants from seeds?

The flowers of Plumeria 'Rose Red' are a combination of pink and red resulting in a rose red appearance. Flowers are about 2 ½ inches (6.25 cm) in diameter and show one bright yellow center. The flowers of Plumeria 'Rose Red' have a sweet fragrance and the keeping quality of the flowers is very good.

The flowers of Plumeria 'Lurline' are a combination of red with orange on a yellow background. Each flower has one reddish colored star in the center. The flowers of Plumeria 'Lurline' measure up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and have a heavy texture. The flower production of this plumeria is heavy and continues over many months. Plumeria 'Lurline' has a light sweet fragrance.

After several cloudy days the sun finally arrived in Chicago.

The following picture shows Plumeria 'Samoan Fluff' against the blue Chicago sky on June 28, 2011.

The flowers of Plumeria 'Pauahi Alii' are bright yellow/gold measuring more than 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. Each flower has dark red bands on the front and back of each petal. The texture of the flowers is heavy and the keeping quality is very good. Plumeria 'Pauahi Alii' has a sweet fragrance with a hint of lemon.

The round full petals of Plumeria 'Samoan Fluff' are white with a bright yellow center. Flowers average between three and three and a half inches (7.5 cm - 8.75 cm) in diameter and have a very good keeping quality. Plumeria 'Samoan Fluff' has a very sweet fragrance.

Plumeria 'Hurricane' grown in zone 5 outdoors during the warmer months of the year. Currently this plumeria is growing indoors under grow lights.
Plumeria 'Hurricane' has showy 3 inch red flowers with white and red lines. The fragrance is sweet and the flowers have good keeping quality. It has a balanced growth habit with rather tight branching.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

Codiaeum variegatum, also called "Garden Croton" or "Variegated Croton", is a species of plants in the genus Codiaeum, a member of the Euphorbiaceae family.

These colorful tropical foliage plants look great when grown in pots and grouped together with other tropical plants, including dwarf bananas, bromeliads, gingers, gardenias, small heliconias, hibiscus, jasmine, orchids or plumeria plants.

Croton plants are known for their colorful foliage which has a waxy texture with vertical growth and leaves facing outwards. The more sun or bright light Croton plants receive, the more colorful their foliage becomes.

Crotons need to be watered well with the soil remaining moist. They prefer to be grown in high humidity and benefit from daily misting when the humidity is low.

When fertilizing Croton plants any fertilizer high in Nitrogen, like 9-3-6 is recommended.

Crotons belong to the family of Euphorbiaceae and are therefore considered poisonous. The sap may cause skin eczema and is also toxic if ingested.

Popular varieties of these colorful tropical foliage plants include Codiaeum variegatum 'Gold Moon', Codiaeum variegatum 'Gold Sun', Codiaeum variegatum 'Goldfinger', Codiaeum variegatum 'Grubell', Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra' and Codiaeum variegatum 'Excellent'.

Croton plants, when grown outdoors, have to be protected or brought indoors if the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or 10 degrees Celsius. Otherwise leaf drop may occur.

Another great group of colorful tropical foliage plants are Caladium plants which is one genus of plants in the Araceae family.

Currently there exist over 1000 cultivars of Caladium bicolor which is considered the original Caladium from South America.
Caladium plants have been cultivated in Europe since the eighteenth century.

Popular varieties of these colorful tropical foliage plants include Candidum White, Cardinal Red, Carolyn Wharton Pink, Fannie Munson Pink, Frieda Hemple Red, Postman Joyner Red, Roselight Pink, White Queen and Rojo Red, to name a few.

Croton and Caladium plants can be grown outdoors during the warmer months of the year and indoors as house plants the rest of the year.

Caladium plants are only hardy in zone 9 and 10. In colder regions they have to be dug up in fall. They also make great house plants year round.
While actively growing Caladium plants need a great deal of moisture and should not be allowed to dry out.

As with Croton plants it's best to use a fertilizer high in Nitrogen, like 9-3-6 and mist their foliage daily if the humidity is low.

All parts of Caladium plants are considered poisonous and may cause skin irritations in sensitive individuals.

I hope you're already enjoying your Croton and Caladium plants. If not, give them a try and brighten up your plant stand indoors or add that needed color to your outdoor garden.

Welcome All Plumeria & Tropical Plant Lovers,

Today I would like to discuss the subject Plumeria
Plants and Soil pH.

Soil acidity or alkalinity affect plant growth by
influencing the chemical availability of nutrients in
the soil for uptake by the plants. The measure of
acidity or alkalinity, expressed as a number, is
called pH.

Plant roots absorb mineral nutrients such as
Nitrogen and Iron when they are dissolved in water.
If the soil solution (the mixture of water and nutrients
in the soil) is too acid or too alkaline, some nutrients
are not available for uptake.

A pH of 7 means that the soil is neutral.
If the pH is below 7, the soil is acidic.
If the pH is above 7 the soil is alkaline.

Most nutrients that plants need are readily available
if the pH is between 6.0 and 7.5.

When the pH is below 6.0, some nutrients such as
Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium are less
available to the plant.

When the pH exceeds 7.5, Iron and Manganese are
less available.

Plumeria plants do well when the pH is between
6.0 to 6.7 which means slightly acidic.

I even read where other authors have suggested a
pH range as low as 5.0 to 6.0.

Everyone seems to agree that plumerias grow best in
a slightly acidic soil.
So how does a gardener measure the pH level
in the soil or potting medium?

Most garden centers carry pH meters.
This pH meter with a probe will measure
the pH level of your soil/potting mix for you.

The picture is of one plumeria cutting with three
branches which was planted unrooted using
the Egg Method.

Since March 19, 2011 when the cutting was planted,
it has fully rooted and produced one inflorescence on
each of the three branches.

The major significance of this is THAT BOTH THE ROOTS
AND INFLOS ARE GROWING SIMULTANEOUSLY.

Prior to the use of this new Egg Method, it was believed
that the plumeria cutting was incapable of growing the root
system and inflorescence at the same time.

Developing inflos on a rooting cutting use all the plant's energy,
thus depriving the cutting of energy needed for root
development. In order to save the cutting by focusing the
energy back to the root system, the only suggested solution
was to remove the inflorescence....and cut it off.

When the Egg Method is applied CORRECTLY, the
inflos on rooting cuttings don't have to be sacrificed.

The cuttings now can develop roots and inflos at the same time.

Lastly, I would like to remind you of our "Mother's Day Sale".
From now until Mother's Day on May 8, 2011, 11:59pm PDT
How To Grow Plumeria - Frangipani Anytime Anywhere!
is offered at an EXTRA $5 OFF. IT MAKES A GREAT GIFT!

Plumerias are like our Mothers in so many ways.
They are beautiful. They are sensitive.
Each one is unique. Each one is special.
They bring joy and delight into our lives.
We love them with all our hearts.

Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers,
Alles Gute zum Muttertag für Alle Mütter,
Bonne fête des mères à toutes les mères,
Felice Festa della Mamma a tutte le mamme,
Madre Feliz Día a todas las madres,
Feliz Dia das Mães para todas as mães,

Bob Walsh

Bob Walsh Enterprises proudly announces their "April Showers Bring May Flowers Week Extra $5 Off Special". From now until May 1, 2011 their step-by-step illustrated plumeria care guide, How To Grow Plumeria - Frangipani Anytime Anywhere!, is available to the public at an EXTRA $5 OFF.

This plumeria care guide was more than ten years in the making. When Mr. Walsh started growing plumerias in Chicago, plant hardiness zone 5, plumeria books available were written mostly for plumeria growers living in tropical climates which rendered them pretty useless for the rest of the world's plumeria lovers. Initially he followed the guidelines in these books but didn't achieve any success in growing or flowering plumerias. As a matter of fact he lost most of them.

This was the time when Mr. Walsh realized he had to come up with his own methods if he wanted to grow and bloom his beloved plumerias in plant hardiness zone 5.

Over the next years he tested different soil mixes, soil additives, fertilizers, grow lights, fungicides, insecticides, and more, taking notes of every step he did, good or bad.

When he finally brought his first plumerias into bloom, he knew that had accomplished a major achievement. Mr. Walsh continued testing his now proven methods of growing and blooming plumerias.

Friends and family finally convinced him to share his knowledge with the public to help other plumeria gardeners living outside subtropical and tropical zones to grow their own plumerias indoors or in their backyard gardens right where they live.

In November 2010, Mr. Walsh published his now best-selling plumeria care guide, How To Grow Plumeria - Frangipani Anytime Anywhere!. Plumeria gardeners in Europe, Southeast Asia, North America, and Australia are taking advantage of the valuable information found in this well researched plumeria care guide.

The reader is guided from the moment his or her plumeria cuttings, plants, or seeds arrive at their doorstep until their plumeria is successfully blooming.

The great success of his plumeria care guide in German speaking countries prompted Mr. Walsh to add one page in German to his website, titled Plumeria Pflege - Frangipani Pflanzen - Pagodenbaum - Tempelbaum. In Germany plumerias are grown from Munich in the South to Berlin in the North. But it is not just Germans who love plumerias. Plumeria growers can be found in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe, even as far north as Finland and Norway.

In the United States plumeria gardeners not only in the northern states but also in the southern states, including Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Texas are using the proven and tested guidelines in Mr. Walsh's plumeria care guide.
Now visitors to his website can take advantage of this SPECIAL EXTRA $5 OFF offer which runs from Easter Sunday, April 24 until May 1, 11:59pm Pacific Coast time.

Copyright © Bob Walsh Enterprises http://www.howtogrowplumeriafrangipani.com

Step-by-step illustrated plumeria book, How To Grow Plumeria - Frangipani Anytime Anywhere, is now available in paperback.

This plumeria book teaches you....

* What to look for when purchasing plumeria cuttings and plumeria plants.

* What is the best potting mix when planting plumeria cuttings.

* What tools you need to have ready when planting your plumeria cuttings.

* What is the best potting mix when planting plumeria seeds.

* How to plant plumeria seeds to expect a high germination rate.

* How to fertilize plumeria seedlings after they germinated to promote sturdy and fast growth.

* How to grow and flower plumeria plants inside during a winter blizzard.

* What are the best grow lights for plumerias to produce flowers.

* What is the LATEST ROOTING METHOD for plumeria cuttings.

* Which fertilizer to use for BEST stem growth, budding and flowering.

* Why foliar feeding is so important for your plumeria plants.

* What ingredients to use in your foliar feeding solution.

* What plants make great companion for plumerias.

* And much more....

Plumeria plants are gaining more and more popularity worldwide as more information about growing and rooting methods become available. For the average gardener it is important to understand the lingo he/she encounters when reading about tropical plants, plumeria plants in particular.

This is part one of a multiple part series of terms for plumeria gardeners. The list of terms is in alphabetical order and can easily be filed for future reference. This reference series is very helpful when communicating with other knowledgeable plant lovers and gardeners . By using the same terms describing issues about plumerias moves the discussion along since these terms have you speaking the same language.

Following are the terms that are helpful knowing when reading about plumeria plants, and plants in general.

Anther is the male reproductive part of flowers. This is actual the part which contains the pollen.

Anthesis describes the time and the process of budding, including the opening of flowers. One synonym for Anthesis is blossoming.

Apical bud is the terminal bud which develops at the tip of the branches.

Axis is described as the angle between the upper surface of the leaf and the stem to which it is attached.

Buds are small bulges, knobs, or swellings on stems or branches. These buds contain an undeveloped flower, leaf, or shoot. This general term covers all the multiple type buds, not just the 'flower bud'.

Bud drop is the premature dropping of the flower buds before they had a chance to fully open.

Callus is the thickened tissue which is developed by woody plants to cover cuts.

Cambium can be described as a ring of tissue which is found in woody seed plants. Cork is produced on the outside of the ring and primary tissue on the inside. This primary tissue is composed of thin-walled cells.

Chimera is a genetic mutation in plants. It can cause part of the plant or all of the plant to have a different appearance when compared to the original plant.

Chlorophyl is the green pigment of plants which traps the energy of the sun for photosynthesis.

Cork is described as the outer layer of the bark.

Corolla is the term used to describe all petals of one flower.

Cortex is the outer portion of stems and roots.

Cotyledons are the first emerging leaves of seedlings. Cotyledons are not considered "true" leaves. They provide the seedlings with nourishments until the true leaves have developed.

Damping off is the premature demise of seedlings which is many times caused by overcrowding and overwatering of seedlings.

Deciduous plants are plants which lose their leaves during a specific season.

Evergreen plants are plants which maintain their foliage throughout the year.

Floral envelope describes all sepals and petals of one flower.

Floret is an individual flower in a flower cluster.

Floriferous is the term used for plants which flower abundantly.

Flowers are reproductive structures of some seed bearing plants.

Fungus is a collective term for a wide variety of organisms which reproduce by spores.

Fungicide is described as any toxin which kills or prevents the growth of fungi. Note: fungi is plural for fungus.

Hermaphrodite is any bisexual plant which means that the flower contains both stamens and pistils.

Indigenous plants are plants which grow naturally in a particular region.

Inflorescence is the term used to describe a flower cluster or a characteristic arrangement of flowers on a stem.

Insecticide is any chemical substance which is used to kill insects.

Part One covers letters "A" through "I". Part Two of this Plant Terms Series will begin with the letter "J". Stay tuned for Part Two with the remaining alphabetical listings of terms and definitions from the world of plumeria plants and tropical plants in general.

When it comes to growing tropical plants, including plumerias, some gardeners will tell you that these plants cannot be grown in temperate climates. Recently, I have been asked how tropical plants and plumerias can be grown in less than ideal conditions meaning outside their native subtropical and tropical climates.

Tropical plant lovers can let their imagination run wild in creating tropical gardens of their own with all the new plants and information that is available to them these days. No longer do they have to listen to all the naysayers telling them it can't be done. Gardeners can create a tropical garden with banana plants, heliconias, plumerias, and other beautiful exotic tropical plants. Many of these tropical plants have been developed and hybridized for this very reason.

In temperate climates gardeners have to grow their tropical plants in pots, and supplement what is needed to re-create their native conditions. The tropical plant gardener in temperate climate zones has to adjust the plants and growing conditions to fit his or her local garden parameters.

For example, if a gardener wants to include banana plants in the garden design, instead of growing banana plants that grow twelve feet or more, like Musa 'Ice Cream' and Musa 'Monthan', growing dwarf fruiting banana plants is the available and correct choice.

Excellent dwarf fruiting banana plants include Musa acuminata 'Dwarf Cavendish', Musa acuminata 'Dwarf Lady Finger', and Musa acuminata 'Super Dwarf Cavendish'. These dwarf banana plants don't take up much space and can produce fruits when provided with the correct growing conditions.

Another excellent alternate choice to grow in temperate climates are ornamental banana plants, called Musa ornata. They produce colorful inflorescences, flower stalks, which carry inedible banana fruits. Colors of the inflorescences include red, white, purple and pink. An excellent edible choice is Musa velutina, also called pink flowering banana. The fruit is actually edible if one doesn't mind the seeds. The bananas actually peel themselves back when ripe. Musa velutina starts flowering and fruiting once it reaches three feet in height.

When traveling to tropical destinations vacationers encounter heliconias growing in the wild. Many heliconias grow so tall that they would not be considered suitable for container growing.

But there are also many smaller heliconias available that can be grown successfully in pots outside during the summer months and inside during the colder months of the year. One group is Heliconia psittacorum which grows happily in a pot. Cultivars include Heliconia psittacorum 'Lady Di', Heliconia psittacorum 'Strawberries and Cream', and Heliconia psittacorum 'Andromeda'. Several plants of Heliconia stricta can also be successfully grown in containers, including Heliconia stricta 'Firebird', Heliconia stricta 'Sharonii', and Heliconia stricta 'Bucky'.
If one's growing space is restricted or limited in size, Heliconia stricta 'Dwarf Jamaican' is an excellent choice. This is a true dwarf heliconia not growing more than two to three feet high. It is a bushy plant with heavily pleated leaves which have a thin red stripe down the center. The bracts look like miniature lobster claws and are comparatively large in contrast to the size of the plant. These bracts last a long time.

Plumeria plants are another group of tropical plants thought to be impossible to grow in temperate climates. By providing the correct plumeria care these plants can be grown as far north as Alaska. Plumeria care involves choosing the correct potting mix, soil additives, fertilizers, and more. This is true for all tropical plants.

There is a feeling of serenity when one watches the flowers of plumeria plants which come not only in many different colors such as white, red, yellow, pink and rainbow, but also have unforgettable fragrances which include citrus, coconut, gardenia, jasmine, peaches, roses and many more.

Plumeria plants can grow quite tall, but can be maintained at the desired height with the correct pruning techniques. In recent years several dwarf varieties have been introduced, including Plumeria obtusa 'Dwarf Singapore Pink', Plumeria rubra 'Divine', and Plumeria rubra 'Mini-White'. Divine and Mini-White are considered true miniatures.

Another dwarf hybrid is Plumeria obtusa 'Dwarf Deciduous' which produces large white flowers with a strong citrus fragrance.

Plumerias over the last fifteen to twenty years have gained more and more gardeners' attention worldwide. More and more international gardeners who have experienced plumerias first hand through their travels, or have discovered them on the internet are including them in their tropical garden designs. Plumerias are also known and called 'Frangipani' which is their recognizable name around the world.

These are just a few examples of tropical plants which can be grown successfully with proper care in temperate climates. Other plants that the tropical gardeners can include in their newly designed gardens are gingers, calatheas, proteas, and tropical rhododendrons.

If you have fallen in love with tropical plants and want to create your exotic tropical garden oasis in the temperate zone where you reside, go ahead and give it a go. New discoveries and gardening methods have opened the door for new possibilities to grow the garden closest to your heart's desire, even if the local trusted gardeners haven't kept up with all these new gardening developments.

Especially, if tropical plants are at the center of your gardening dreams, find a good current tropical plant care guide and read up on the newest methods that are out there and available.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

Though not as bold as red, pink plumeria flowers have a unique place among plumeria flowers when it comes to color. Bright pink colors express youth, fun, excitement, and confidence. Pink, since being chosen as the color to symbolize the fight against women's breast cancer possibly for its association with baby girls, has internationally added awareness and hope to its already recognized romantic and charming appeal. Pink plumeria flowers offer this softer side to their red counterparts.

Pink flowers come in different shades known as blush, coral, fuchsia, raspberry, rose, salmon, hot pink, and magenta. Some named pink plumeria flowers among Plumeria rubra officially registered with the Plumeria Society of America include Charlotte Ebert, Grove Farm, Maui Beauty, Mela Matson, Sally Moragne, and Slaughter Pink.

Charlotte Ebert has hot pink flowers. The flowers average four inches in diameter with highly overlapping petals which are elliptical in shape. Flowers show a small yellow center. The fragrance is described as jasmine with a hint of coconut. The keeping quality of the flowers is good with the hot pink color of the petals fading over time. Charlotte Ebert is a tall upright growing plumeria.

Grove Farm has medium pink colored flowers. The flowers are more than four inches in diameter with highly overlapping petals which are wide and elliptical in shape. Flowers have a strong yellow center and red bands on the back. Dark pink lines run throughout the petals on the front. The texture of these plumeria flowers is heavy resulting in a good keeping quality. The fragrance of Grove Farm is described as mild and spicy.

Maui Beauty has blush pink flowers. The flowers average between three and three and a half inches in diameter with moderately overlapping petals which have rounded tips. Flowers show a vibrant pink band on the back with the center of the flower being bright yellow. The fragrance reminds one of lemons. The keeping quality of the flowers is very good. Maui Beauty exhibits a well balanced growth habit.

Mela Matson has medium pink colored flowers with a dark pink band on the back. The flowers are between three and four inches in diameter and composed of reflexed petals. The petals of this plumeria flower are wide, rounded, and overlapping. Mela Matson has a sweet fragrance with some lemon. This plumeria is very floriferous and blooms for a long time. The keeping quality of the flowers is good. The growth habit of this plumeria tree is upright and somewhat lanky.

Sally Moragne is one of the famous Moragne hybrids. These plumeria flowers open with a soft peachy pink color and fade to white with pink as they age. Both colors, peachy pink and white with pink, are present on the inflorescence and create a beautiful contrast of colors. The flowers are very large, up to five inches in diameter, with the petals being wide with a rounded tip and highly overlapping. The texture of the flowers is heavy resulting in a very good keeping quality. The fragrance is strong and sweet. Sally Moragne grows tall with an upright growth habit.

Slaughter Pink has light pink flowers with darker pink showing on the edges of the petals. This plumeria is easy to grow, and produces huge clusters of flowers. The flowers average four inches in diameter and have petals which are reflexed, separated and have a pointed tip. These plumeria flowers have a strong citrus fragrance.

These are just some of many well known pink plumerias. These are proven performers producing delightful scented plumeria flowers. They can be grown successfully in your garden with proven and tested guidelines.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

Yellow means sunshine, hope and happiness. You know for yourselves that when you have a number of cloudy days that are followed by a day of bright sunshine how everybody's mood improves. People are happier, kinder, and seem to express joy more readily. Yellow as a color has that same effect on people. It is a warm color that radiates cheerfulness.

Yellow is a sign of hope and return as with the symbol of yellow ribbons tied around the tree calling for the safe return of love ones including our brave military men and women from harm's way.

Yellow flowers are the hope of the return of spring with daffodils, tulips, and roses.

Shades of yellow can be described as banana, chiffon, cream, golden, goldenrod, lemon, mellow yellow, saffron, and topaz. Yellow suggests freshness and citrus fruitiness, such as lemon yellow which also suggests a clean inviting refreshing scent, which is probably why lemon scent is so popular in so many aerosol products.

The same is true when it comes to yellow plumeria flowers, such as 'Aztec Gold', 'Bali Whirl', 'Celadine', 'Cyndi Morange', 'Lemon Drop', 'Nebel's Gold', and 'Paul Weissich'.

Aztec Gold has golden yellow flowers. Aztec Gold's flowers show a very light pink band on the back of the petals. This pink band is barely visible once the flowers open up and fades to white once the flowers age. These plumeria flowers measure up to 4 inches in diameter and are composed of petals which are elliptical in shape, overlap moderately, and have rounded tips. The fragrance of the flowers is strong with the essence of ripe peaches. Aztec Gold flowers easily and the blooming season extends for months.

Bali Whirl is the first plumeria with double flowers which tend to be between three and four inches in diameter. Each flower has ten petals which spread out and make one flower look like several flowers. The flowers are yellow with a white margin, similar to the flowers of Celadine. Bali Whirl is easy to grow and flowers profusely.

Celadine is also known as 'Common Yellow' and 'Graveyard Yellow'. The flowers are a bright yellow with a white border surrounding the yellow of each petal. The flowers measure up to three and a half inches in diameter, have an excellent keeping quality and a strong lemon fragrance. The tips of the petals are pointed and overlap slightly. The growth habit of Celadine is upright and dense.

Cyndi Moragne has large, four to five inches in diameter, flowers which are white with a large yellow center. These plumeria flowers have a pink band on the reverse side of the petals which exhibit rounded tips. The petals have a heavy texture, and highly overlap. The keeping quality of the flowers is very good and the fragrance is sweet with a hint of spice. Cindy Moragne is named after the granddaughter of William Moragne, Sr.

Lemon Drop has brilliant yellow flowers with each petal showing a small white edge surrounding the broad yellow area. Flowers average four inches in diameter. These plumeria flowers are composed of heavy textured petals which are elliptical in shape and highly overlap. The flowers have a strong lemon scent with a very good keeping quality. Lemon Drop is easy to grow and blooms freely over a long period of time.
Nebel's Gold is an often overlooked plumeria flower which is rather popular on the Hawaiian Islands. The flowers, averaging three inches in diameter, are mostly yellow with light pink bands on the reverse side of the petals. The petals are elliptical in shape and moderately overlap. These plumeria flowers have a lemon scent but a rather poor keeping quality.

Paul Weissich has large golden yellow flowers with an orange center and pink lines radiating through the petals. The flowers are between three and three and a half inches in diameter. The petals are elliptical in shape, overlap moderately, and have rounded tips. These plumeria flowers have a fragrance which reminds one of peaches. Paul Weissich is a vigorous grower. This plumeria was named after the Director of the Foster Botanic Garden in Honolulu, Hawaii.

These are just some examples of yellow plumeria flowers offering a variety of fragrances. Applying proven guidelines these delightful plumerias can be successfully grown in your garden.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

The plumeria, those beautiful exotic tropical flowers also known as frangipani, is grown worldwide. To maintain this plant's overall beauty requires the gardener to provide tender loving care not only to the flowers, but also to the leaves. The gardener needs to know of potential problems that can develop as well as how to correct these problems through proper plumeria care.

Plumerias, frangipani, are grown all over the world beginning in its first discovered natural habitat of the Caribbean Islands, Central America, Mexico and Northern South America. These beautiful tropical plants are also grown in American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Cambodia, Canada, Cook Islands, Ethiopia, Fiji, French Polynesia (Tahiti), Germany, Guam, India, Indonesia (Bali), Italy (Sicily), Sri Lanka, Thailand, Taiwan, and the United States to name just a few.

Over the last twenty-five years more and more international travelers are discovering these beautiful fragrant tropical plants. Many travelers to Hawaii and Tahiti, for example, are greeted upon their arrival with a traditional island lei. These leis are a necklace of stringed plumeria flowers that have an intoxicating fragrance. So overwhelming is the impression these flowers make on visitors to these tropical destinations that they often leave wearing a lei or bringing one back home as a gift for a loved one.

Even more dramatically, these visitors bring home a dream of growing plumerias in their own homes and yards, and creating a small tropical garden of paradise with plumerias as the main attraction.

This dream requires some education about plumeria care outside their natural habitat of subtropical and tropical growing zones. Many of these new plumeria aficionados are very excited to learn that it is possible to create such a garden of paradise indoors and outdoors with proper plumeria care.

The overall aesthetic beauty of the plumeria plant involves caring for the leaves as well as the flowers. The leaves not only provide protection for the flowers from the winds, but they complete its overall tropical appearance.

One of the most common worldwide threats to plumeria plants is a fungus disease known as plumeria rust, Coleosporium domingese. An airborne pathogen causes the plumeria rust to spread rapidly from one plumeria plant to another.

Plumeria rust was first recorded on Plumeria alba on the Caribbean West Indies island of Guadeloupe in 1902. It later spread to and throughout Central America. Today it is found in many countries where plumerias are grown. The one important piece of good news is that plumeria rust does not affect the plant's growth and flowering.

Some plumerias are more resistant to rust than others, including Plumeria obtusa 'Singapore' and Plumeria 'Mele Pa Bowman' which are very resistant to rust.

The majority of infections are caused by airborne urediniospores that stick to leaves under wet or humid conditions. Urediniospores are thin-walled spores. These spores look like a balloon pinched in the middle, or an un-separated eight. As these spores germinate, the nuclei undergo karyogami, reproduction in fungi, and thereafter meiosis, cell division. They penetrate the leaf surface infecting the cells of leaves.
The symptoms of the disease start on the undersides of leaves that begin to show numerous tiny, raised, yellow-orange, powdery rust pustules. These pustules may emerge sparsely on the upper surface of heavily infected leaves. Even though the spores can be rubbed or wiped off the leaves, it doesn't eliminate the infection.

Yellow spots become visible on the upper leaf surface, opposite to the infected sites on the lower surface. As lesions age, enlarge, and coalesce, these yellow areas develop into sunken, angular and grayish to brown spots. When leaves are severely diseased, they may dry, curl, become distorted, and fall off. Premature defoliation can at times result in complete loss of leaves.

To control plumeria rust one needs to act promptly at the first indications of rust spots. In treating infected leaves it is important to treat both sides of the leaves with a fungicide. It is helpful to add a surfactant to the fungicide solution to prevent the solution from running off the leaves. It is important to remove any and all infected leaves. Remove all fallen leaves as well as the pathogen can continue to survive on these leaves and become a source of new infections.

Further preventive steps include regulating the airflow around plumeria plants. It is an invitation for diseases and insects if plumeria plants are planted too close together.

To avoid this unsightly disease of plumeria rust, one should get good solid information from experienced and knowledgeable plumeria gardeners who have years of experience in growing frangipani. Their guidance can save you time, energy, and grief over the loss of a beautiful plumeria garden that has been overridden by plumeria rust or other harmful diseases. All of this can be prevented if one receives the voice of tried and tested information on how to successfully grow and properly care for frangipani.

A well informed plumeria gardener can protect plumerias from the unsightly plumeria rust and other threatening diseases by investing in a plumeria care guide that provides solid expert advice and problem solving solutions by a knowledgeable plumeria gardener with years of credible experience.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

Bob Walsh Enterprises announces their latest Giveaway, Free 'Jeannie Moragne' Plumeria Cutting Giveaway.

One lucky person's name will be drawn from all those who purchase a copy of 'How To Grow Plumeria - Frangipani Anytime Anywhere', the recently released Plumeria Care Guide from their website, http://www.howtogrowplumeriafrangipani.com, between now through February 8, 2011. The drawing will take place on February 9, 2011.

'How To Grow Plumeria - Frangipani Anytime Anywhere' is an easy to follow Plumeria Care Guide for tropical plant lovers around the world who wish to grow these beautiful exotic fragrant flowers, but live outside the subtropical and tropical regions of the world, the natural habitat of plumerias, also called frangipani.

This guide highlights the newest successful plumeria rooting method with a step by step process documenting it with pictures and explanations. This process is encouraging to all plumeria gardeners as it accelerates the growing process and shortens the time it takes in rooting these very popular tropical plants which may allow for future year-round indoor plumeria planting.

The lucky winner receives one single FREE Plumeria cutting, 'Jeannie Moragne', one of the plumerias that was created by Bill M. Moragne, Sr. Mr. Moragne was a pioneer plumeria grower who was the first person to successfully develop the hand-pollination process of plumerias in 1953.

Mr. Moragne created two hundred-eighty plus seedlings through controlled hand pollination. He kept only 35 of the most vibrant and fragrant plumeria trees which were first given numbers instead of names. He later named the brightest colored plumerias in the group after the women in his family. 'Jeannie Moragne' is one of them.

Other plumeria cultivars Mr. Bill Moragne Sr. named after women in his family include Cindy Moragne, Edi Moragne, Katie Moragne, Kelly Moragne, and Sally Moragne.

To learn more about plumeria care for indoors and outdoor gardening and to be entered in Bob Walsh Enterprise's "Free 'Jeannie Moragne' Plumeria Cutting Giveaway" visit http://www.howtogrowplumeriafrangipani.com.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

Plumerias originated in the Caribbean, including the South American countries of Columbia, Guyana, and Venezuela, and throughout Central America.

Names of plumerias range from Paucipa in Puerto Rico, Flor de Mayo in Mexico, Flor de la Cruz in Guatemala, Amapola in Venezuela, Tipanier in Tahiti, Pumeli in Hawaii, Frangipani in Australia, Jepun in Bali, Indonesia, Dok jumpa in Laos, Phool in India, Pomelia in Italy, Pagodenbaum in Germany, Flor de Cebo on the Canary Islands to Plumies in the USA.

These beautiful exotic tropical plants can range in size from dwarfs, which under the most ideal conditions don't grow more than six feet tall to giant trees up to 30 feet in height.

Their intoxicating and unforgettable fragrances include gardenia, jasmine, ripe peaches, grapes, honeysuckle, roses, ginger, coconut and many more.

Colors of plumeria flowers include white, yellow, orange, salmon, pink, red, rainbows, and some hybrids even show some purple.

Their flower petals are defined by their distinct and unique characteristics. They can be wide, narrow, elliptical, twisted and slightly, moderately, or highly overlapped. They can be described as thick and waxy, delicate and thin, and have various textures in between.

Plumeria leaves which range from light to dark green in color are a beautiful background for these colorful, fragrant flowers. Leaves also provide natural protection from high winds.

Plumerias can be started from seeds or unrooted cuttings. You may purchase a grown rooted plant with or without developing inflorescences, with or without buds to a fully flowering plant. It is most important to purchase your plumeria cuttings and plants from reputable retailers known for selling quality merchandise. Price does not guarantee quality.

Plumerias are unique plants in a way that they can be lifted from the ground or pot and stored overwinter in a heated basement or garage. They go completely dormant during the colder months of the year needing no watering or fertilizing. Come spring plumeria enthusiasts are able to replant their plumies, an affectionate name given to them by their growers, and enjoy their sensuous fragrances again.

But these tropical beauties can also be grown successfully indoors all year long with the use of special plant lights which create the tropical sunlight that plumerias enjoy in their natural habitat. This is why plumerias, frangipani, can be grown outside their natural subtropical and tropical zones as these grow lights imitate over 90 percent of the available sunlight.

Plumerias can be grown successfully from seeds, cuttings, or as rooted plants both indoors and outdoors following tried and tested guidelines. All plumerias grow best in fast draining soil, ample sunshine and, or plant lights, proper airflow and humidity, good proper fertilization, and knowledgeable insect and disease controlled methods.

When growing frangipani outside, proper fertilizing is more important than the tropical sun. Plumerias are grown outside as far north as Alaska. But plumerias need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight or fourteen to sixteen hours of grow lights in order to bloom.

As more and more gardeners are discovering the beauty and popularity of plumerias, frangipani, more information becomes available.

Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011

Plumeria flowers come in many different colors and color combinations.
Copyright © Bob Walsh 2011