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How To Keep A Poinsettia

Poinsettias don’t like fluctuating temperatures or to be near a draft (like most of us really) They much prefer a steady room temperature between 18 and 25 C. Poinsettias need warmth and light, so being close to a radiator shouldn’t be a problem. Don’t keep them near the fire, doorways or windows.

How do you save a poinsettia for next year?

After all the leaves have fallen, store the plant, in its pot, in a cool (50 to 60°F), dry, dark area. Keep the plant somewhat on the dry side; water only enough to keep the stems from withering.

How do you keep poinsettias alive in the house?

Poinsettias like plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. They are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so don’t place them directly in the sun, next to a heater or near a drafty window. A daytime temperature between 65 and 80 degrees and nights around 60 degrees will provide perfect conditions for continued growth.

What do you do with poinsettias after Christmas?

Place your poinsettias where they will receive at least 6 hours of indirect, but bright, sunlight each day. In mid-April pinch back the stems to 6-8 inches and place the plants in a sunny location. When new growth begins, you may use a liquid fertilizer to ensure the plants get enough minerals, especially calcium.

How do you get a poinsettia to rebloom?

How to Get Poinsettias to Rebloom Prune your poinsettia plant. Fertilize the poinsettia every two weeks. Repot the plant in warmer months. Transport your plant outdoors. Pinch to encourage side branching. Place the poinsettia in a warm, dark environment. Display your poinsettia plant.

When should I put my poinsettia in the dark?

To re-flower your poinsettia, you must keep the plant in complete darkness between 5pm and 8am daily from the end of September until color shows in the bracts (early to mid-December). The temperature should remain between 60 and 70 degrees F.

Can I keep poinsettias outside?

Answer: Both the Christmas cactus and the poinsettia are not hardy outdoors and will freeze if planted outside. They should remain in their pots and not be planted outdoors in the garden if you live where it freezes in the winter. Repotting is a good idea for the poinsettia especially.

Why are the leaves falling off my poinsettia?

Poinsettias will classically drop their leaves if they are exposed to sudden changes in temperature, drafts or overly cool or dry rooms. They also will lose leaves and wilt in response to an extreme need for water. When choosing a plant, pick a healthy, full one with no discoloration on the foliage.

How often do poinsettias need to be watered?

In your home, put the poinsettia in a well lighted area away from drafts and heat vents. Water the poinsettia when the pot becomes lightweight or when the soil becomes dry to the touch, about once a week. Water the plant thoroughly in a sink, letting it drain, before putting it back where it was.

What is the life expectancy of a poinsettia plant?

“Home gardeners generally keep their poinsettias one or two years. If they’re really dedicated, maybe a little longer. But the life span for interior plants when you live in the North is measured in months, not years.”.

How long will poinsettias last indoors?

If cared for properly, a potted poinsettia can last for 2 to 3 months in your home. However, some home gardeners with a particularly green thumb may enjoy the challenge of caring for a poinsettia long after Christmas in hopes of a second bloom next holiday.

Do I water a poinsettia from the top or bottom?

When should I water my poinsettia? Water your poinsettia plant only when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Thoroughly moisten the soil to the point that water is draining from the bottom of the growing pot. Discard any excess water that builds up in the saucer or decorative foil pot cover.

Does a poinsettia flower every year?

Find out how to grow and care for poinsettias for Christmas and beyond, in our Grow Guide. However, with a little care and attention it’s possible to keep your poinsettia alive throughout the year and even encourage red bracts and flowers to form in time for the following Christmas.

Is poinsettia indoor or outdoor?

Poinsettias are hardy in zones 9 through 11. They can be grown as long-lasting houseplants, and you can transplant them into the garden in frost-free areas like ours. If you’re keeping your potted Poinsettia plants indoors, keep them in sunny rooms that have a south, east, or west exposure.

Do I need to cut back my poinsettia?

Poinsettias (both potted and in the ground) should be pruned twice a year, first in the spring and again in late summer. Remembering the “A” months is a helpful tip, April and August. For the first pruning in spring (April), remove all foliage and cut all branches back to 4-6″ of height.

Do poinsettias like coffee grounds?

According to Gardening Know How, poinsettias do well using any all-purpose houseplant fertilizer. If you don’t want to go store-bought though, consider mixing coffee grounds or some a little finished compost into the soil. The added nitrogen will help keep your poinsettia extra healthy.