Are you looking for a way to add color and beauty to your garden this spring? Plumeria can be an excellent choice with their beautiful vibrant blooms that bring striking elegance to any space!
And they’re easy to grow once you get the hang of them! You can grow frangipani in the desert as well. Earlier, I’ve covered how to transplant plumeria. And now, you’ll learn how to propagate plumeria cuttings in this plumeria propagation guide.
I’ll share methods of propagating frangipani plants from existing ones – aka replanting plumeria cuttings.That’s actually the difference between propagating and growing plumeria. Have a look at quick facts now.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Active Working Time | 10 minutes |
| Time for Plumeria Cuttings to Root | 2-3 Weeks |
| Difficulty Level | Easy-peasy! |
| Materials Required | Pruning shears, rooting hormone plumeria, well-draining potting mix, pots or containers, misting sprayer. |
| Quick Steps | Select healthy cuttings, remove bottom leaves, apply plumeria rooting hormone to the end, and plant in a well-draining medium. |
| Plumeria Propagation Care | Optimal temperature and humidity, proper moisture, suitable lighting, gradual acclimatization, fertilization, potting into larger containers, and disease prevention. |
| Challenges | Address rotting, lack of root development, and pest issues. |
5 Plumeria Propagation Methods ↓
With its sweet fragrance and tropical beauty, it’s no wonder why plumerias have become such popular flowers worldwide.
However, unlike most garden plants, propagating plumerias can be challenging due to their specific requirements for healthy growth.
Tha’s an interesting video! Let’s learn proven approaches to growing new plumeria trees using different plumeria propagation methods effectively.
- Plumeria Propagation in Water. (Rooting plumeria in water).
- Plumeria Stem Cuttings.
- Frangipani Seeds.
- Propagation via Division.
- Air Layering.
- And Grafting Plumeria.
You can even grow plumeria from a leaf cutting at home:
1/ Plumeria Propagation from Cuttings
Replanting plumeria cuttings is the most successful frangipani propagation method. Cuttings produce a faster result than other methods as they are established quickly in the soil.
When propagating plumerias from cuttings, select healthy stems with 3-5 nodes (these are where the leaves and flowers grow).
- Ensure the node is 2 inches in length.
- Cut it with sterilized pruning shear.
- Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node.
- Ensure your plumeria cutting is 8-12 inches long, ideally.
- Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting (leave 2 or 3 leaves at the top).
- Allow the cutting to dry out for a day or two.
- Dip plumeria cutting in the rooting hormone.
- Plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix.
- Water your newly planted plumeria every week until it’s fully grown.
The plumeria cutting should root in 4-6 weeks. You can transplant the plumeria cutting to a larger pot once the cutting has been rooted.
2/ Propagating Plumeria from Seeds
If you prefer propagating plumeria from seeds, it’s important to remember the seeds need to be fresh.
Here’s how to propagate plumeria seeds:
- Soak the plumeria seeds overnight in lukewarm water.
- Select a pot at least 8 inches wide with drainage holes.
- Fill a seedling tray with moist potting mix.
- Sow the plumeria seeds under the soil surface.
- Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot with indirect light.
- Keep the soil moist for several weeks to encourage germination.
Fertilize the plants with a cactus fertilizer once a month. When the plants are big enough, transplant them into a bigger pot or the ground outside.
3/ Plumeria Propagation from Division
Another successful plumeria propagation method is division. However, this requires some additional effort as it involves cutting the roots of the plumeria and then replanting them in separate pots.
Here’s how to propagate the plumeria branch:
- Remove your existing planted plumeria with multiple stems.
- Separate its root system into sections.
- Ensure that each section has at least one bud and a few roots.
- Re-pot them in individual containers filled with potting soil.
- Trim any damaged or excess roots using clean pruning shears.
- And once they’re settled, water them consistently.
4/ Propagating Plumeria from Air Layering
Air layering can also create more frangipani for your garden. It’s a propagation method suitable for plumerias with thicker branches.
- Select a suitable branch (1 inch thick and no signs of damage or disease).
- Cut horizontally around the branch (one-third of the way through its diameter).
- Apply plumeria rooting hormone to the exposed area of the branch.
- Surround the cut section with moist sphagnum moss.
- Covering it with plastic wrap or a plastic bag.
- Tie the plastic securely above and below the moss to maintain moisture.
- Monitor and wait.
Over time, roots will form within the moss. Once roots are well-developed, cut the branch below the rooted section and plant it in a pot.
5/ Frangipani Propagation with Grafting
Grafting plumeria is an advanced propagation technique that involves joining a plumeria cutting (scion) with an established rootstock.
I don’t recommend it, but here’s how to graft plumeria:
- Select a healthy plumeria plant to serve as the rootstock.
- Create a diagonal 1-2 inches long cut on the rootstock.
- Take a plumeria cutting with a similar diameter as the rootstock.
- Make a matching diagonal cut at the base.
- Insert the cut end of the scion into the cut on the rootstock.
- Use grafting tape or a grafting clip to hold the scion and rootstock.
After that, you must provide the right environment for your grafted plumeria plant – and that is a warm and shaded area.
Additionally, monitor the plumeria graft union for signs of successful fusion and provide regular care to encourage healthy growth.
That’s all for frangipani propagation methods! My recommended method is stem cutting, of course. It’s easy and yields quick results.
Now let’s learn how to propagate frangipani cuttings step-by-step.
How to Propagate Plumeria Cuttings
Propagating plumeria cuttings is the easiest way to increase your frangipani collection. Cutting from another plumeria plant allows you to grow new plants quickly and easily.
You can jump to the specific part ↓
- Get ready to propagate frangipani.
- Make the conditions suitable.
- Choose the right rooting plumeria cuttings.
- Prepare the stem cuttings for propagating.
- Plant them, of course.
- Care for the frangipani cuttings.
Let me walk you through the step-by-step process of how to plant a plumeria stick.
1/ Get the Necessary Tools & Materials
Gathering all the required things before you begin the propagation process is essential.
Here’s a list of items you need:
Hand trowel: To dig a hole and mix soil.
Pruning Shears: To take cuttings from mature plumeria plants.
Rooting Hormone: To encourage root development.
Potting Mix: A well-draining potting mix designed for plumeria propagation.
Small 4″ pots: Having drainage holes at the bottom.
Spray Bottle: Fill a spray bottle with water to mist the cuttings.
Plastic Bags: To create a humid environment for the cuttings.
Grow Lights: If you’re propagating frangipani indoors.
Watering Can: To water the plumeria cuttings once they develop roots.
The heat mat and moisture gauge are optional.
If that seems like a lot, don’t worry. You can use a propagation kit specially designed for plumeria cuttings that include everything you need.
2/ Make Suitable Conditions for Growing Plumeria
Plumeria grows best in warm climates and can be propagated from stem cuttings. The best conditions for growing plumeria are in a warm location with adequate sunlight and plenty of space outside.
- Keep the warm temperature between 70°F and 85°F (21°C – 29°C).
- Keep your frangipani warm & bright but indirect sunlight.
- Use a well-draining potting mix, combining perlite, peat moss, and sand.
- Mist the cuttings or divisions or use a humidity tray to increase moisture.
- Regularly water your plumeria – but don’t overwater them.
- Use plumeria rooting hormone, ventilation, and protection from extreme weather.
Black nursery containers or pots work best; the soil should be coarse for good drainage. When planting a plumeria from a cutting, it’s best to do so when it is dormant (typically in late fall or winter).
3/ Choose the Right Rooting Plumeria Cuttings
Now is the time to select healthy plumeria cuttings for propagation.
Look for a stem with at least three nodes and no signs of disease or damage. The nodes are where the leaves and flowers grow on your plumeria plant. Cut off the stems at least 6 inches long using sterilized pruning shears.
Here’s how to choose the right frangipani cuttings:
- Look for stems with multiple leaf nodes for optimal root development.
- Opt for 12 to 18 inches long and half-an-inch thick stems.
- Prefer semi-hardwood stems with a firm texture.
- Avoid stems with flowers or buds to prioritize root development.
- Select cuttings from parent plants with desirable traits.
- Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node.
3/ Prepare the Plumeria Cuttings for Planting
Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting, leaving two or three leaves at the top.
Once you have the stem cuttings, let them sit in a dry place overnight or for at least one day. This helps heal wounds created by pruning shears and prevents disease-causing bacteria from entering.
After that, dip one end of the cutting into the rooting hormone. This is important as it encourages root development in the cutting.
4/ Plant Your Plumeria Cuttings
Fill the pots with a well-draining potting mix suitable for plumeria propagation. Ensure to water the soil before planting your cuttings – this helps keep it moist and prevent root damage while transplanting.
Here’s how to root plumeria:
- Plant the cuttings 2-3 inches deep in the soil.
- Place the pots in a bright, indirect sunlight location.
- Mist the cuttings to increase humidity.
- Keep the potting mix moist but not wet.
- Once the soil is moist, make a small hole in the center of the pot.
- Insert the plumeria cuttings with rooting hormone applied to their ends.
- Cover up the hole so that it’s filled, and press down gently on it.
Monitor for root development and adjust care accordingly. Plumeria cuttings typically root within 4-6 weeks; then, you can transplant them to a larger pot.
5/ Care for Plumeria Cutting While Propagating
That’s the last but never-ending step.
Let’s learn how to care for plumeria cuttings during propagation.
Position the cuttings in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, especially during the initial rooting phase.
Regularly mist the plumeria cuttings to maintain a humid environment around the leaves. This is particularly important in dry climates or when rooting indoors. Mist every couple of days using a plant sprayer.
But refrain from watering the soil excessively, as it can lead to root rot. The focus should be maintaining humidity around the leaves rather than saturating the soil.
Plumeria plants do not need much fertilizer, but you can use a balanced fertilizer lightly every other month to keep them healthy.
Keep a close eye on the cuttings for signs of root development. New leaves emerging at the top of the cutting indicate successful rooting.
This process may take several weeks, so be patient.
Once the plumeria cutting has successfully rooted and new leaves have formed, gradually introduce it to more sunlight. Start by placing it in a partially shaded area and gradually increase exposure to full sun over time.
Once your frangipani plant blooms, it will produce seeds.
To collect the seeds, allow the pods to dry on the plant for several days until they turn brown and brittle. Then clip the pods off the plant and store them in a paper bag until they are ready to plant.
Pruning is unnecessary for Plumeria plants, but you can cut back any dead or overgrown branches.
That’s all! And that’s how easy it is! These plumeria care instructions will help you root and propagate plumeria cuttings successfully.
Let me answer a few questions about frangipani propagation now.
FAQs on Propagating Frangipani Cuttings
I’ll try my best to answer as many questions as I can.
Can you propagate plumeria?
Yes, you can propagate plumeria from stem cuttings! This is the easiest and most successful method of propagation for plumeria. Since many people have asked this, let me answer a “yes” to the question – or else you’d know that now.
When to take a plumeria cutting to propagate?
The best time to take a plumeria cutting for propagation is when the plant is dormant, typically in warm spring or summer. The best months to take plumeria cuttings are April, May, June, and July. The ideal weather is warm and humid.
When to propagate frangipani?
The best time to propagate frangipani is when the plant is dormant, typically in late fall or winter. You can also wait until the plant has shed all its leaves and just a few remain. This gives enough time to prepare for propagation without hindering the growth of your plants.
How to cut plumeria for rooting?
When cutting a plumeria for rooting, use pruning shears to cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node. Select healthy cuttings with multiple leaf nodes and no signs of disease or damage.Watch this YouTube Shorts to learn how to cut plumeria for transplant.
How long do plumeria cuttings take to root?
Plumeria cuttings typically root in 2-3 weeks under favorable conditions. However, factors like dryness, excessive moisture, or cold temperatures can extend the rooting time. Plumerias can grow fast (within one month).
How long do plumeria cuttings last?
The longevity of plumeria cuttings depends on the storage conditions. If stored properly in a cool, dark place, they can remain viable from 8 weeks to a few months. Ensure to protect them from cold temperatures.
Can I propagate frangipani in water?
Yes, you can propagate frangipani in water, although it’s slower than with soil. I don’t recommend it also because the cuttings can easily rot as they’re fragile. But it’s a fun experiment to try.
So, here’s how to propagate plumeria in water:
- Choose a healthy 6-inch long stem.
- Cut the stem just below a node using a sharp knife or shears.
- Remove the bottom leaves, leaving the top three.
- Place the cuttings in a jar of lukewarm water.
- The jar should receive 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
The cuttings should start showing new roots within two to four weeks. Once the roots are about 2 inches long, you can plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
Why is my frangipani, not growing leaves?
If you recently transplanted the plumeria cutting and it is not growing leaves, it may be because of the transplanting stress. Give it time to adjust to its new environment; you should see new leaves soon!
The frangipani losing leaves is normal during autumn or winter. It’s not dying but dormant. Ensure proper watering, light, and temperature. Keep soil slightly dry; use a moisture meter. Optimal root formation occurs at 75-85°F. Consider using a heat mat or a light fertilizer to accelerate rooting.
Can you replant a broken plumeria branch?
Yes, you can replant a broken plumeria branch with proper care. Ensure it’s dry and not rotten. Trim damaged parts for a clean edge. Remove leaves from the downside. Follow rooting steps to replant plumeria.
Can I propagate a few species of plumeria?
Yes! You can propagate various plumeria species, such as plumeria pudica, plumeria obtusa, and plumeria rubra. The process of propagating plumeria is generally the same for all species.
Where do you cut plumeria to propagate?
You can cut plumeria to propagate from the stem or branches. Cuttings should be made at a 45-degree angle with sharp, sterile scissors just below a node. Make sure that there are no signs of damage or disease. Avoid using leaves and buds for propagation, as they cannot root successfully.
And that’s all for how to propagate plumeria cuttings, seeds, branches, and more. I hope you’re ready to get your hands on propagating frangipani.
Happy planting 🙂
Also, read: Everything About Buying and Growing Plumeria in Hawaii
