Plumbago in Fl

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birder17 Jackson, MO(Zone 6b) Jul 03, 2014

I have a Plumbago in a big pot. This will be planted in zone 9. Would it be okay to plant now, or should I wait until a better time. If I should wait, when would be a good time to plant it?

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BajaBlue Rancho Santa Rita, TX(Zone 8a) Jul 04, 2014

Where are you wanting to plant it ?

If out in your yard in Missouri, it will
freeze this winter.

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Diana_K Contra Costa County, CA(Zone 9b) Jul 04, 2014

Plumbago auriculata is marginal for zone 9.
I am in 9b and it gets frosted most years, but the extent of the damage varies.

If you want to plant it in the ground, I would suggest throwing a tarp (clear plastic) over it when the temperatures are supposed to drop.

If you want to plant it out right now the time is not optimum, but could work. You will have to be sure it gets water through the summer heat. If you have it in a container I am sure you are already watering it, so it will need just about the same amount in the ground, at first. I would also put up some temporary shade in the hottest part of the day if you are planting it in full sun.
As the roots spread into the surrounding soil water it less often, but run the hose longer so the water soaks in deeper, encouraging the roots to go deeper.

Optimum time to transplant something that may freeze is in the late winter/early spring when no more cold nights are expected, but the weather is still mild. Plants can develop better roots when they are not having to fight the summer heat.

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birder17 Jackson, MO(Zone 6b) Jul 05, 2014

Thank you Diana for your instructions.
I will be taking it to my son in Fl. whose brand new to gardening. We will be going down there soon & taking the plumbago with us. I am thinking possibly I should keep it here with me. Then, take it down when we go to see him over the Christmas holidays. (sometime either Nov, Dec or Jan. we haven't nailed down exact date.)

Which would be best--now? Or then?

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Diana_K Contra Costa County, CA(Zone 9b) Jul 05, 2014

I would suggest for Florida that the fall through late winter is still a bit chancy, if it should freeze. But look at the records for the area where your son lives. If it has not had any freezing weather in the last few years it may be that the climate is changing from global warming and it would be a better risk than several years ago.

I still suggest avoiding the heat of summer, but if the only other option is possibly freezing in winter, then I would say plant it now. Then put up a bit of shade, such as a couple of stakes and a burlap tarp or something.

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birder17 Jackson, MO(Zone 6b) Jul 05, 2014

Good idea to check records. Again, thanks for the advice.

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