Poinsettia Care

For Weeks And Weeks Of Colour

By Arlene Wheeler

So you've visited Schriemer's for your Christmas shopping, and you picked up a couple of our wonderful poinsettias. How could you resist? They come in so many fabulous colours; pink, red, white, burgundy, and marbled or speckled combinations of these. There's no question that poinsettias add that vibrant splash of living colour to your Christmas decor.

Now that you've got them home, you want to do everything possible to keep them looking their very best for as long as possible through the Holiday season and into the New Year. With that in mind, here are a few pointers for poinsettia care in your home.

Watering

Examine the soil daily, and when the surface is dry to the touch, water the soil until it runs freely out the drainiage holes in the container. If a saucer is used, discard the water that collects in it. Do not leave the plant standing in water. Overly wet soil lacks sufficient air, which can result in root injury.

A wilted plant may drop its leaves prematurely, so check the soil frequently. Plants exposed to high light and low humidity will require more frequent watering. If wilting does occur, immediately water with the recommended amount, and then 5 minutes later water again.

Fertilizing

Don't fertilize your plant while it is in bloom. Fertilize the poinsettia after the blooming season with an all-purpose fertilizer (20-20-20) once a month.

Temperature

After you have made your selection in the store and are ready to bring your plant home, make sure it is wrapped properly, because exposure to freezing temperatures for even a few minutes can damage the colorful bracts and leaves.

Moderate daytime temperatures of 18-21 degrees C and evening temperatures of 15-18 degrees C are ideal for keeping your poinsettias happy indoors. Avoid placing your plants near warm or cold drafts from radiators, air registers or open doors and windows. And while cold temperatures are obviously damaging to the plants, high temperatures will also shorten their lives. Never expose your plants to temperatures below 10 degrees C (50 degrees F).

Light

Do not place poinsettias in direct sunlight! Place your plants in indirect or diffuse sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. If direct sunlight cannot be avoided, diffuse the light with a shade or sheer curtain. Poinsettias will tolerate low light, but moderately bright light is best.

Poinsettias Are Not Poisonous!

As with all ornamental plants, poinsettias are not intended for human or animal consumption, and certain individuals may experience an allergic reaction to poinsettias. However, the poinsettia has been demonstrated to be a safe plant. In fact, the poinsettia has been included on the list of houseplants most helpful in removing pollutants from indoor air. So, not only is the poinsettia a safe and beautiful addition to your Holiday decor, it can even help keep your indoor air clean!