Poinsettias are a quintessential holiday plant, bringing vibrant pops of red, white, or pink into your home. With a little care, you can keep your poinsettias thriving throughout the season and even beyond. Here are some simple tips to help you care for your poinsettias and enjoy long-lasting blooms:
Pick the Perfect Spot
Poinsettias are a warm climate plant, native to Mexico which means they love bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. Make sure to keep them away from doors or windows susceptible to cold drafts and away from heating vents and the fireplace to not damage their leaves.
Water Wisely
Poinsettias prefer evenly moist but not soggy soil. Check the soil regularly and water only when the top inch feels dry to the touch. Be sure to drain any excess water to avoid root rot, poinsettias don’t like to sit in standing water so make sure to remove your pot cover! Using lukewarm water can help prevent shocking the plant.
Picking the Right One
For the longest-lasting poinsettia blooms, choose a plant with tightly closed flower buds at the center, as these indicate freshness and longevity. Additionally, look for bracts (the colourful leaves often mistaken for petals) that are just beginning to change colour. This means the plant is in peak condition and will continue to mature beautifully in your home.
Extending Their Life Beyond the Holiday Season
Yes, poinsettias can last well after the holidays with a few simple tips and tricks! After the holidays, cut back the stems to about 6 inches and continue regular watering and start to fertilize. Place them outside in the late spring when temperatures are consistently warm. To encourage holiday blooms again next year, give them 14 hours of complete darkness each night starting in October. In late spring or early summer, transplant your poinsettia into a larger container (about 2 to 4 inches bigger than the original pot).
