How to care for a poinsettia? Be mindful, it's poisonous

The poinsettia, otherwise known as the pretty spurge, is a native plant of Mexico and Guatemala. It's quite sensitive to temperature variations and thus requires careful handling, especially when being purchased. For a safe journey home, the poinsettia should be properly wrapped to shield it from frosty conditions. Otherwise, it may quickly deteriorate.

It's usually not worthwhile to invest in plants located near entrance doors, as they've potentially been impaired by cold temperatures. At the flower shop, request the seller to wrap the poinsettia securely in paper. Once home, gradually unwrap it, allowing it to acclimate to the new environment.

The poinsettia prefers warm, well-lit environments, but direct sunlight should be avoided. Its growth may also be stunted if placed near a radiator. It's crucial to shield it from drafts and sudden temperature drops - for example, avoid placing it near a window that will be opened during winter, as it can't tolerate abrupt temperature changes. The ideal room temperature for a poinsettia is between 64 and 68°F, keeping in mind that it doesn't thrive in overly dry air. Therefore, considering the use of humidifiers or spraying a water mist around the plant can be beneficial.

Poinsettias favor wet, peaty soil. Regular watering is crucial as drought causes the plant to wilt rapidly, and it then becomes challenging to revive. However, extreme caution must be exercised not to overwater, as pretty spurge prefers moisture to saturation. Overwatering leads to rotting roots and increased susceptibility to fungus. A well-balanced approach would be to water it every 2 days, concurrently ensuring that it doesn't wallow in the saucer for too long. Regular fertilization with a nutrient mixture for flowering plants, beginning a month after purchase, promotes optimal growth.

Those with children or pets at home need to exercise additional caution if planning to grow a poinsettia. Although the entire plant is harmful, the most toxic component is the white sap found in the stem, leaves, shoots, and roots. This sap can cause skin irritation, so wearing gloves during the care-taking process is highly advised. In case the sap comes in contact with the eyes, flushing them out as quickly as possible is essential. While it's true that a harmful dose for adults would be at least a glass of sap, it's better to prioritize safety and protect children and pets who might be inclined to chew on the leaves.