Poinsettias are popular flowers for the holiday season. The traditional red reminds us of holly fruit and leaves, but poinsettias are now available in pink, white, salmon, purple, burgundy, two tones, even polka-dots. Care for it correctly and your favorite can last into the new year.
Poinsettia Care Tips
- Don’t let your poinsettia get cold. Cover it with plastic or a paper bag when you transport it from the store to your car and then into you home. Once home, make sure night temperatures stay 60 degrees F or above.
- Keep your poinsettia cozy but not toasty. Poinsettias prefer daytime temperatures from 65-75 degrees F and nighttime temperatures a bit cooler, from 60-65 degrees F. Too hot and the color won’t last long; too cold and the plant may get root rot.
- Give your poinsettia a drink of water – but not too often. Make sure you don’t overwater or underwater. Yes, this can be a bit tricky. Feel the soil. When it is dry an inch deep, water the soil thoroughly.
- Don’t drown your poinsettia! Make sure any decorative pot covers have holes in the bottom so water can drain out. Don’t let the pot sit in water either.
- Share a little sunshine. Place your poinsettia so it gets bright but indirect light all day.
Poinsettia Care Tips
- Don’t let your poinsettia get cold. Cover it with plastic or a paper bag when you transport it from the store to your car and then into you home. Once home, make sure night temperatures stay 60 degrees F or above.
- Keep your poinsettia cozy but not toasty. Poinsettias prefer daytime temperatures from 65-75 degrees F and nighttime temperatures a bit cooler, from 60-65 degrees F. Too hot and the color won’t last long; too cold and the plant may get root rot.
- Give your poinsettia a drink of water – but not too often. Make sure you don’t overwater or underwater. Yes, this can be a bit tricky. Feel the soil. When it is dry an inch deep, water the soil thoroughly.
- Don’t drown your poinsettia! Make sure any decorative pot covers have holes in the bottom so water can drain out. Don’t let the pot sit in water either.
- Share a little sunshine. Place your poinsettia so it gets bright but indirect light all day.
