If you’ve been patiently caring for your Rio, Calypso, or Samba Dipladenia indoors or in a greenhouse during the cooler months, you’re probably wondering: When can I finally move them outside?
The short answer: Not until the threat of frost is gone.
The good news? Once the timing is right and you follow a few simple steps, your Dipladenia will be ready to thrive outdoors all season long.
Step 1: Know When It’s Safe
Dipladenia is a heat-loving tropical plant that doesn’t tolerate frost. That means timing is everything.
Wait until:
- All risk of frost has passed in your region.
- Overnight temperatures consistently stay above 10°C (50°F).
- The soil has started to warm up, especially if you’re planting in garden beds.
In most regions, this means mid-to-late May, but always check your local last frost date to be sure.
Step 2: Harden Them Off Gradually
Moving plants directly from indoors to full sun can shock their system. Instead, ease them into their new outdoor life with a hardening off period:
- Start by placing your Dipladenia in a sheltered, partially shaded spot outdoors for a few hours a day.
- Over 7–10 days, gradually increase their sun exposure and time outside.
- Bring them back indoors at night if temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F).
This helps your Dipladenia adjust to sun, wind, and temperature fluctuations slowly and safely.
Step 3: Choose the Right Outdoor Spot
Dipladenia loves:
- Full sun (more sun = more blooms)
- Warm temperatures
- Well-draining soil
Whether in containers or planted directly into your garden:
- Choose a spot that gets morning to afternoon sun.
- Avoid locations exposed to harsh winds.
If planting in the ground, enrich your soil with compost or organic matter and make sure it drains well.
Step 4: Water & Feed Correctly After Transplanting
Once planted outdoors:
- Water thoroughly after transplanting to help roots settle.
- Then, allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Dipladenias can tolerate some drought.
- Begin feeding every 2–3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to support strong growth and blooming.
Bonus: Refresh Your Planters with New Fernlea Companions
This is also the perfect time to freshen up your containers or beds by adding beautiful companions from Fernlea’s collections:
- Awesome Accents® like Sweet Potato Vine or Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ for lush texture and trailing foliage.
- Garden Tropics® like Cordyline or Majesty Palm for a dramatic, exotic vibe.
Together with your Dipladenia, these combos create a high-impact, low-maintenance display for patios, balconies, or garden beds.
Ready, Set, Grow!
Moving your Dipladenia outdoors too early can set them back, but wait for the right time and harden them off properly, and they’ll reward you with months of vibrant blooms and tropical beauty.