For many, the poinsettia, also known as the Christmas flower, is a festive symbol that brightens homes during the holiday season. But once the Christmas decorations are packed away, these vibrant plants are often overlooked or discarded, as maintaining them to live throughout the year seems like a daunting task.
However, with the right care, poinsettias can not only live but also thrive year-round, bringing joy well beyond the holiday period. In this feature, we’ll explore expert tips that will help you keep your poinsettias alive and flourishing into the next holiday season and beyond.
1. Maintain Moderate Temperatures
Poinsettias are tropical, and they favor similarly moderate conditions. Aim to keep your plant in a room that’s consistently between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and not below 60 degrees at night. Avoid placing it near drafts or heat sources like vents or radiators, which can cause early leaf drop.
2. Provide Ample Indirect Light
These plants love light! Place your poinsettia near a window where it will receive indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. Direct sunlight can be too intense and lead to fading, so a sheer curtain can act as an ideal buffer.
3. Water Wisely
The watering schedule for poinsettias is delicate; the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure the pot drains easily to avoid soggy soil, which can cause root rot.
4. Ensure High Humidity
A humid environment fulfills the tropical nature of the poinsettia. You can increase humidity around the plant by placing the pot atop a tray of pebbles filled with water or by using a small humidifier. This mimics their natural conditions and can help prevent the leaves from drying out.
5. Fertilize For Future Growth
After the blooming period, typically around the middle of spring, begin fertilizing your poinsettia every two to three weeks. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Be sure to stop feeding by the end of summer to prepare the plant for the next blooming cycle.
6. Prune for Fullness
Pruning is key in maintaining a lush, full poinsettia. In spring, once the plant stops blooming, cut back the stems to about 4-6 inches in height. This will encourage new growth and help your poinsettia attain a desirable shape for the next holiday season.
7. Repot If Needed
If your poinsettia is growing vigorously and the roots are becoming crowded, it might be time to repot. Choose a container that’s only slightly larger than the current one, as a pot too big can lead to excess moisture. Use fresh potting soil to give your plant a nutrient boost.
8. Begin the Re-blooming Process
To prepare for the holiday season, poinsettias require a strict light regimen starting in early autumn. Provide 14 hours of complete darkness each night by placing the plant in a closet or covering it with a box. Then, make sure it gets 6-8 hours of bright, indirect sunlight during the day. Maintain this routine for about 8-10 weeks until the bracts develop their signature color.
Caring for poinsettias all year round can offer a rewarding gardening project plus the added benefit of festive cheer throughout the holidays. With attention to their specific care requirements, these plants will reward you with their stunning color and liveliness year after year.