By Kimberly Orsak
Be patient! Dormancy is a natural process – duration can vary depending on variety and climate. Dormancy allows plants to conserve energy and survive unfavorable conditions. As temperatures consistently stay above 55°F, it’s time to bring plumeria out of winter storage. Some root loss and branch dehydration may be visible, this is common following winter dormancy.
Inspect your plants for damage: Check stems, leaves, and roots for pest damage or disease.
Common issues to address include:
• Black tips
• Stem rot
• Leaf node rot
• Shriveled branches
• Mice or rodent damage
• Insect damage
If you find any issues, prune back to healthy wood (white sap), making cuts at a 45-degree angle. After pruning, apply a natural fungicide like sulfur or cinnamon to protect the cuts.
To help your plants break dormancy, gently massage the root ball to remove loose soil and dead roots. Then, soak or drench the root ball with a diluted nutrient-rich solution like Garrett Juice or Super Thrive. This process will rehydrate your plant and stimulate root development, resulting in vigorous and resilient plants.
When repotting, use a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mixture that includes cactus soil, perlite, and compost. If planting in the ground, amend the soil with compost and a slow-release fertilizer. Dig a rectangular hole, slightly larger than the root ball, and plant at the same depth as the root ball.
By following these steps, you can help your plants transition out of dormancy and get ready for a vibrant growing season!