10 Best Fertilizers for Plumeria to Keep Your Blooms Thriving

I’ve found that top-performing plumeria fertilizers include Nelson NutriStar 5-30-5 with its specialized high-phosphorus formula, Grow More Hawaiian Bud and Bloom 5-50-17 for accelerated flower development, and Miracle-Gro Bloom Booster 10-52-10 for maximum bloom production. Professional Nursery Grade slow-release options provide sustained nutrition for six months, while EarthPods offer convenient, mess-free application. The key is matching phosphorus-rich formulations to your planting method, whether container or ground-based, to achieve those vibrant tropical blooms you’re seeking. Below, I’ll explore each option’s specific benefits.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 11th September 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Choose fertilizers with high phosphorus content (30-55%) like Scotts Super Bloom or Grow More Hawaiian to maximize flower production and bloom quality.
• Water-soluble options like Miracle-Gro Bloom Booster provide quick nutrient absorption, while slow-release formulas offer sustained feeding for 5-6 months.
• Look for specialized plumeria fertilizers containing essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and zinc to prevent nutrient deficiencies and support healthy growth.
• Consider application convenience: EarthPods offer mess-free capsule application while liquid concentrates like 16oz Plumeria Fertilizer provide exceptional value per gallon.
• Match fertilizer type to growing method – container plants need frequent feeding every 1-2 weeks, ground-planted plumerias benefit from slower-release formulations.

Nelson Plumeria and Flowering Tropicals Fertilizer NutriStar 5-30-5 (15 LB)

If you’re growing plumeria trees that struggle with sparse blooming or weak regrowth after pruning, Nelson’s NutriStar 5-30-5 fertilizer offers the specialized nutrition these tropical beauties demand. This formulation delivers exceptional phosphorus content at 30%, which directly supports abundant flower production and vibrant blooms. You’ll benefit from five different nitrogen sources that provide consistent, long-lasting feeding throughout the growing season. The added elemental sulfur naturally acidifies your soil, creating ideal growing conditions for plumeria and other flowering tropicals like frangipani and ground orchids. Landscapers have trusted this research-backed formula for over thirty years, consistently achieving transformative results in both container and in-ground plantings.

Best For: Gardeners growing plumeria, frangipani, and other flowering tropical plants who want to maximize blooming and support healthy regrowth after pruning.

Pros:

• High phosphorus content (30%) specifically formulated to promote abundant flowering and vibrant blooms
• Five different nitrogen sources provide consistent, long-lasting nutrition throughout the growing season
• Contains elemental sulfur that naturally acidifies soil to create optimal growing conditions for tropical plants

Cons:

• Specialized formula may be more expensive than general-purpose fertilizers
• The 5-30-5 NPK ratio is specifically designed for flowering tropicals and may not be suitable for other plant types
• 15-pound bag size may be too large for gardeners with only a few plants

Grow More Hawaiian Bud and Bloom 5-50-17 Fertilizer (1.5lbs Water Soluble)

Serious plumeria enthusiasts who demand exceptional blooming performance will find their perfect match in Grow More Hawaiian Bud and Bloom 5-50-17 Fertilizer, a powerhouse formula specifically engineered for tropical flowering plants. This urea-free, water-soluble fertilizer delivers an impressive phosphorus boost that accelerates bud development while strengthening root systems through chelated micronutrients. You’ll appreciate its versatility for both soil and foliar applications, with color tracers ensuring precise coverage across your plumeria collection. The chloride-free potassium formula enhances flower size and vibrant coloration while improving your plants’ drought resistance and overall immunity, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced growers seeking professional-grade results.

Best For: Serious plumeria enthusiasts and tropical plant growers who want to maximize blooming performance and flower quality with a professional-grade, urea-free fertilizer.

Pros:

• High phosphorus formula (5-50-17) specifically designed to accelerate bud development and enhance flower size and color
• Versatile application methods with both soil and foliar options, plus color tracers for precise coverage
• Chloride-free potassium and chelated micronutrients improve plant immunity, drought resistance, and overall health

Cons:

• Specialized formula may be too concentrated for general garden plants beyond tropical flowering varieties
• Higher price point compared to basic all-purpose fertilizers due to professional-grade formulation
• Requires careful mixing and application following specific ratios to avoid potential over-fertilization

Grow More Hawaiian Bud and Bloom 5-50-17 Fertilizer (3lbs Water Soluble)

Gardeners who prioritize exceptional bloom production will find Grow More Hawaiian Bud and Bloom 5-50-17 Fertilizer perfectly suited for their plumeria care needs. This 3-pound water-soluble formula delivers high phosphorus content that enhances bud formation, creating larger, more vibrant blooms on your tropical plants. The chloride-free potassium promotes rapid root development while boosting your plumeria’s natural immunity against environmental stresses. You’ll appreciate the chelated micronutrients that improve nutrient uptake and drought resistance, essential qualities for maintaining healthy plumeria trees. The versatile application works effectively in soil, hydroponic systems, and soilless mixes, giving you flexibility in your gardening approach.

Best For: Gardeners seeking to maximize bloom production and flower quality on their tropical plants, flowering shrubs, and ornamental plants through a high-phosphorus, water-soluble fertilizer formula.

Pros:

• High phosphorus content (50) specifically formulated to enhance bud formation and create larger, more vibrant blooms
• Versatile application methods work effectively in soil, hydroponic systems, and soilless mixes with UV-stable color tracers for precise coverage
• Contains chloride-free potassium and chelated micronutrients that promote rapid root development, plant immunity, and improved drought resistance

Cons:

• The high phosphorus ratio may not be suitable for plants that don’t require intensive bloom boosting or during vegetative growth phases
• Water-soluble formula requires more frequent applications compared to slow-release granular fertilizers
• Specialized bloom booster formulation makes it less versatile as an all-purpose fertilizer for general plant nutrition

16oz Plumeria Fertilizer – Makes 16 Gallons of Liquid Plant Food

When you’re seeking exceptional value without compromising quality, the 16oz Plumeria Fertilizer stands out as an economical choice that transforms into 16 gallons of nutrient-rich liquid plant food. This concentrated formula delivers nitrogen for vigorous leafy growth, phosphorus for robust root development, and potassium for spectacular flowering displays. You’ll also benefit from essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and zinc that prevent common deficiencies in plumeria plants. The fertilizer works effectively across all plumeria varieties, from Aztec Gold to Singapore cultivars, making it versatile for diverse garden collections. Apply every 1-2 weeks during growing season, then reduce to monthly applications in cooler months for sustained nutrition.

Best For: Plumeria enthusiasts and gardeners who want exceptional value from a concentrated fertilizer that provides comprehensive nutrition for all plumeria varieties while delivering 2X more value than competitors.

Pros:

• Creates 16 gallons of liquid fertilizer from just 16oz of concentrate, offering exceptional value and convenience
• Contains complete nutrition with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, plus essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and zinc
• Works effectively on all plumeria varieties and requires only bi-weekly applications during growing season

Cons:

• Requires mixing with water before each application rather than being ready-to-use
• Application frequency varies by season, requiring gardeners to adjust feeding schedule
• Concentrated formula may risk over-fertilization if mixing instructions aren’t followed precisely

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Bloom Booster Flower Food (1360011)

Plumeria enthusiasts who struggle with sparse blooming will find exceptional results with Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Bloom Booster Flower Food, a high-phosphorus fertilizer specifically designed to maximize flower production. The 10-52-10 N-P-K ratio delivers concentrated phosphorus that triggers abundant flowering, while the dual feeding action nourishes plants through both roots and leaves for extensive nutrition. You’ll appreciate the convenient application methods, whether using a garden feeder for outdoor plumeria or mixing one tablespoon per gallon for watering can application. Applied every seven to fourteen days, this bloom booster promotes vibrant colors and increased flower yield without burning delicate plumeria tissues when used as directed.

Best For: Gardeners with flowering plants, especially plumeria enthusiasts, who want to maximize bloom production and color intensity in both indoor and outdoor container gardens.

Pros:

• High phosphorus content (10-52-10) specifically formulated to trigger abundant flowering and vibrant colors
• Dual feeding action nourishes plants through both roots and leaves for comprehensive nutrition
• Multiple convenient application methods including garden feeder and watering can options with clear mixing ratios

Cons:

• Requires frequent reapplication every 7-14 days for optimal results
• Product information shows inconsistent weight specifications (0.5 lbs vs 1.5 lbs listed)
• May not provide balanced nutrition for plants that need higher nitrogen for foliage growth

Scotts Super Bloom Water Soluble Plant Food (2 lb, NPK 12-55-6)

Super Bloom Water Soluble Plant Food stands out as an exceptional choice for plumeria enthusiasts who want to maximize their flowering displays with minimal effort. The 12-55-6 NPK ratio delivers targeted nutrition, with exceptionally high phosphorus content that directly supports bloom development and quality. You’ll appreciate how this water-soluble formula dissolves instantly, making feeding sessions quick and efficient for your plumeria collection. Feed every 1-2 weeks during growing season to maintain consistent nutrient availability, and you’ll often notice improved flower production within days of application. The safe formulation won’t burn your plants when used correctly, giving you confidence while nurturing your tropical beauties.

Best For: Plumeria enthusiasts and gardeners who want to maximize flowering displays on outdoor plants, fruiting varieties, and container gardens with a high-phosphorus fertilizer that promotes vigorous bloom development.

Pros:

• High phosphorus content (55%) specifically designed to enhance bloom quantity and quality with visible results often appearing within days
• Water-soluble formula dissolves instantly for easy mixing and efficient feeding every 1-2 weeks during growing season
• Safe formulation that won’t burn plants when used as directed, providing confidence for regular application

Cons:

• Requires frequent reapplication every 1-2 weeks throughout the growing season, increasing maintenance requirements
• Water-soluble nature means nutrients can wash away quickly with heavy rainfall or frequent watering
• May not provide long-term soil conditioning benefits compared to slow-release or organic fertilizer options

Leaves and Soul Plumeria Professional Liquid Fertilizer (3-5-4 Nutrient Blend)

The 8-ounce concentrated formula delivers exceptional value for dedicated plumeria enthusiasts who want professional-grade nutrition without the premium price tag. This liquid fertilizer’s 3-5-4 nutrient ratio provides moderate nitrogen for foliage, elevated phosphorus for abundant blooms, and balanced potassium for overall plant vigor. You’ll appreciate the rapid absorption that delivers immediate benefits to your plumerias, whether they’re thriving in your garden or adorning indoor spaces. The eco-friendly ingredients support sustainable gardening practices while promoting robust root development and extraordinary flower production. Simply mix this concentrated solution with water for hassle-free application that transforms your plumeria care routine into an effortless, rewarding experience.

Best For: Plumeria enthusiasts and gardeners seeking professional-grade liquid fertilizer that promotes vibrant blooms and healthy growth for both indoor and outdoor plumeria plants.

Pros:

• 3-5-4 nutrient blend specifically formulated for optimal plumeria blooming with elevated phosphorus content
• Concentrated 8 oz formula offers exceptional value and rapid absorption for immediate plant benefits
• Eco-friendly ingredients support sustainable gardening practices while promoting robust root development

Cons:

• Specialized formulation may not be suitable for plants other than plumerias without additional research
• Liquid concentrate requires proper dilution and mixing before each application
• 8 oz size may require frequent repurchasing for gardeners with multiple or large plumeria plants

Professional Nursery Grade Plumeria Fertilizer (4 LB 6 Month Slow Release)

Professional-grade nutrients make all the difference when you’re serious about cultivating exceptional plumeria blooms, and this 4-pound slow-release formula delivers the same quality that Florida’s large-scale production nurseries rely on daily. The 18-5-12 NPK ratio provides sustained nutrition through coated pellets that release nutrients over 5-6 months, reducing your feeding frequency while maintaining consistent growth. You’ll appreciate the instant-release component that jumpstarts initial green-up, followed by steady slow-release feeding that prevents nutrient burn. Essential micronutrients like magnesium, iron, and manganese support robust foliage development and vibrant flowering, addressing common deficiencies that plague plumeria plants in various growing conditions.

Best For: Serious plumeria growers who want professional-grade, long-lasting fertilizer that delivers consistent nutrition over 5-6 months without frequent reapplication.

Pros:

• Professional nursery-grade formula with slow-release coated pellets that provide sustained feeding for 5-6 months
• Contains essential micronutrients (magnesium, iron, manganese, zinc) that address common plumeria deficiencies
• Includes instant-release component for quick green-up while preventing nutrient burn through controlled slow-release

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to typical box-store fertilizers due to professional-grade formulation
• 4-pound package may be more than needed for casual growers with just a few plants
• Specialized formula is designed specifically for plumeria, limiting versatility for other plant types

100 EarthPods Bio Organic Hibiscus Fertilizer Spikes for Tropical Plants

Organic gardening enthusiasts who prefer mess-free fertilizing will find EarthPods Bio Organic Hibiscus Fertilizer Spikes perfectly suited for their plumeria care routine. These capsules eliminate liquid spills, measuring tools, and unpleasant odors while delivering concentrated nutrients directly to root zones. You’ll simply insert one capsule into potting soil near your plumeria, then water thoroughly to activate the slow-release formula.

The proprietary blend contains organic nutrients, trace minerals, soil microbes, and humates that enhance flower production and blossom vibrancy. Users report noticeable improvements within days, including fresh leaf growth and increased flowering across tropical plants like plumeria, hibiscus, and bougainvillea.

Best For: Organic gardening enthusiasts who want a mess-free, easy-to-use fertilizer solution for tropical plants like hibiscus, plumeria, and bougainvillea that delivers quick results without measuring or unpleasant odors.

Pros:

• Mess-free capsule application with no liquid spills, measuring tools, or unpleasant odors required
• Fast-acting results with users reporting new leaf growth and increased flowering within days
• Eco-friendly packaging in recyclable paperboard tube with concentrated formula that provides long-lasting nutrition

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to traditional fertilizers, though users generally consider it worth the investment
• Inconsistent product availability with noted fluctuations possibly due to weather conditions
• Some labeling discrepancies regarding specific plant types that may cause confusion for targeted plant care

Professional Nursery Grade Plumeria Fertilizer (4 LB Six Month Slow Release)

Serious plumeria enthusiasts who demand professional-quality results will find this concentrated, slow-release fertilizer delivers the same nutrition standards used by Florida’s commercial nurseries. The 18-5-12 NPK formula, enriched with magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, and zinc, provides extensive nutrition that sustains your plants for six months. You’ll appreciate the dual-action design that combines instant feeding for immediate growth with slow-release pellets for long-term nourishment.

This concentrated formula means you’ll use less product while achieving superior results, making it cost-effective for dedicated growers. The fertilizer’s reputation for boosting Hawaiian lei flower production demonstrates its effectiveness in promoting abundant, vibrant blooms that’ll transform your plumeria garden.

Best For: Serious plumeria enthusiasts and professional growers who want commercial-grade nutrition with a concentrated, slow-release formula that provides six months of feeding.

Pros:

• Dual-action formula provides both instant feeding for immediate growth and six-month slow-release nutrition
• Professional-grade concentrated formula used by Florida commercial nurseries means less product needed for superior results
• Complete nutritional profile with NPK plus essential micronutrients like magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, and zinc

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to basic fertilizers due to professional-grade formulation
• May be overkill for casual gardeners who don’t need commercial-grade nutrition
• Concentrated formula requires careful application to avoid over-fertilizing

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fertilizer for Plumeria

When I help gardeners choose the right fertilizer for their plumeria, I focus on five critical factors that’ll determine your plant’s success and blooming potential. The NPK ratio becomes your foundation, while deciding between slow-release granules and fast-acting liquid feeds affects your maintenance schedule and nutrient delivery timing. I’ll also guide you through organic versus synthetic options, essential micronutrients like iron and magnesium, and application methods that match your gardening style and experience level.

NPK Ratio Requirements

Understanding the specific nutritional needs of your plumeria plants starts with selecting fertilizers that contain the right NPK ratio, which directly influences blooming success and overall plant health. I recommend focusing on fertilizers with higher phosphorus content, particularly those featuring NPK ratios like 5-30-5 or 5-50-17, which promote exceptional root development and vibrant flower production. The ideal range typically spans from 3-1-3 to 10-30-10, depending on your plant’s current growth stage and blooming cycle. While phosphorus remains essential for flowering, don’t overlook nitrogen for healthy foliage growth and potassium for disease resistance and overall vigor. I’ve found that fertilizers containing micronutrients like magnesium and iron alongside proper NPK ratios deliver the most thorough nutrition, resulting in stronger stems and increased environmental stress tolerance.

Slow Vs Fast Release

How do you decide between slow-release and fast-release fertilizers for your plumeria’s unique feeding schedule? I recommend considering your gardening goals and maintenance preferences when making this choice. Slow-release fertilizers provide steady nutrients over several months, reducing application frequency while promoting consistent growth and blooming patterns. They’re particularly valuable for sensitive plumeria varieties, minimizing nutrient burn risks that can damage delicate root systems. Fast-release options deliver immediate results, enhancing flower color and size substantially in the short term, making them ideal for quick corrections or seasonal boosts. However, they require more frequent applications and can cause nutrient leaching if plants don’t absorb them quickly enough. Consider your plumeria’s current growth stage and desired timeline for results when selecting between these formulations.

Organic Vs Synthetic Options

Beyond timing your fertilizer applications, the choice between organic and synthetic fertilizers greatly impacts your plumeria’s long-term health and flowering performance. I recommend organic options like compost, fish emulsion, or bone meal because they improve soil structure, promote beneficial microbial activity, and provide slow-release nutrients that prevent over-fertilization. These natural fertilizers offer a broader spectrum of micronutrients and trace elements that synthetic formulas often lack, focusing primarily on NPK ratios. While synthetic fertilizers deliver immediate results, they can create chemical dependency and contribute to nutrient runoff when misused. Organic fertilizers build soil ecosystem health over time, resulting in more resilient plumeria plants with stronger root systems, better disease resistance, and more vibrant blooms that reward your patience with sustained beauty.

Micronutrient Essential Elements

Micronutrients function as the hidden catalysts that transform ordinary plumeria care into extraordinary flowering success, working behind the scenes to enhance every cellular process. I’ve found that magnesium, manganese, iron, and zinc create the foundation for vibrant blooms and robust plant health. Iron drives chlorophyll synthesis, giving leaves their rich green color, while magnesium powers photosynthesis directly. These essential elements strengthen your plumeria’s resistance to environmental stress, ensuring consistent flowering throughout the growing season.

Soil pH greatly affects micronutrient availability, making regular testing essential for ideal uptake. I recommend applying micronutrient-rich fertilizers consistently to prevent deficiencies that can limit flowering potential. When you maintain proper micronutrient levels, you’ll notice improved flower quality, enhanced foliage vigor, and increased plant longevity that rewards your careful attention.

Application Method Preferences

Your fertilizer selection means little without mastering the right application method, which determines how effectively nutrients reach your plumeria’s root system and foliage. I recommend water-soluble fertilizers for quick absorption, especially when mixing with water for regular feeding schedules that young plants desperately need. Slow-release formulations work brilliantly for established plumerias, providing gradual nutrient delivery over months while reducing your maintenance workload considerably. Foliar feeding through leaf sprays enhances uptake during peak growing seasons, particularly when deficiency symptoms appear on older foliage. Soil application remains the most traditional approach, delivering nutrients directly to root zones where absorption occurs naturally. Your plumeria’s growth stage should guide your choice—frequent liquid feeds benefit developing plants, while mature specimens thrive with consistent slow-release nutrition.

Soil Ph Considerations

Since soil pH directly affects nutrient availability, understanding your plumeria’s acidic preferences becomes essential for selecting fertilizers that work effectively in your garden conditions. I recommend maintaining soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, which creates the ideal environment for nutrient absorption and supports vigorous plumeria growth. When your soil tests too alkaline, adding elemental sulfur will lower pH levels, making phosphorus and other essential nutrients more accessible to your plants. I’ve found that incorporating organic matter like compost naturally stabilizes pH while improving soil fertility and moisture retention. Regular soil testing helps you identify when amendments are necessary, ensuring your fertilizer applications deliver maximum benefits. This balanced pH approach not only promotes healthy development but also encourages the vibrant flowering that makes plumerias so spectacular.

Container Vs Ground Growing

Whether you’re growing plumerias in containers or directly in garden soil, the fertilization approach requires distinct strategies that accommodate each environment’s unique characteristics. Container-grown plumerias need more frequent feeding since their limited soil volume restricts nutrient retention, requiring fertilization every few weeks during growing season. I recommend balanced fertilizers that promote rapid growth and blooming for potted plants. Ground-planted plumerias benefit from slower-release formulas that provide consistent nourishment, as their deeper root systems can naturally search for nutrients in larger soil reservoirs. Container plants also need specialized fertilizers that compensate for their constrained environment and drainage differences. The key is matching your fertilizer choice to your planting method for best results.

On a final note

I’ve guided you through the top fertilizer options, from slow-release granules to water-soluble concentrates, that’ll keep your plumeria producing those stunning, fragrant blooms you love. Whether you choose high-phosphorus formulas like Grow More’s 5-50-17 or convenient slow-release options, consistent feeding during growing season makes all the difference. Remember to take into account your specific climate, soil conditions, and maintenance preferences when selecting the perfect fertilizer for your tropical beauties.