Keep poinsettias beautiful: Care tips for holiday cheer
The poinsettia, often called the Christmas star, requires proper care to remain vibrant for an extended period. Here's how to take care of this plant so it lasts not just for the holidays, but for many seasons to come.
The poinsettia isn't just a holiday decoration; with appropriate care, it can become a perennial plant, dazzling for months. It's crucial to avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can cause the leaves to drop. It thrives best in a bright spot but not in direct sunlight. What should you do to make it stunning during the holidays?
How to care for your poinsettia?
Poinsettias require light, well-drained soil. Heavy soil restricts air access to the roots, hindering their development. The pot should have holes at the bottom to allow excess water to drain.
During the holiday season, remember regular watering, but keep this in mind: the soil should be moist but not soaked. Water frequently only when the top layer of soil begins to dry out. In the heating season, it's best to water every 3-4 days, less often during warmer months. Avoid overfilling the pot's saucer to prevent harming the plant's roots.
The plant does not tolerate drafts and sudden temperature changes, so the best place for it is a well-lit spot, though it's better to avoid placing it in direct sunlight and too close to heaters. The ideal temperature for a poinsettia is about 63-72 degrees Fahrenheit.
Avoid care mistakes
The best time to start using fertilizer is spring. During this time, the poinsettia begins to awaken and grow vigorously. Introduce natural fertilizers every 3-4 weeks until autumn—this will ensure it has the strength and healthy growth it needs. During winter, when the plant is blooming, fertilization is not necessary.
This plant thrives in areas with bright light, but it should not be exposed to direct sunlight, as this can harm it and cause burns.
In the spring, the poinsettia should be trimmed by a few inches, which helps maintain its shape and stimulates lush growth. Cuttings can also be pruned once they've taken root and begun to grow. At that point, trim their tips for better growth.
