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How To Keep Poinsettias Alive Indoors

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 long do poinsettias last inside?

Answer: If given good care in the home, poinsettias should remain attractive for 2 to 3 months. Toss the poinsettia when you grow tired of it or it becomes unattractive. For those home gardeners who enjoy a challenge, it is possible to get the poinsettia to bloom again next season.

Can you keep a poinsettia alive year round?

Poinsettias can be kept year after year, and they will bloom each year if you give them proper care. When the leaves begin to yellow or when the plant is no longer desired as an ornamental, gradually withhold water. After all the leaves have fallen, store the plant, in its pot, in a cool (50 to 60°F), dry, dark area.

How do you keep a potted poinsettia alive?

To keep your poinsettia happy throughout the holiday season, place it in bright, indirect light. Water regularly so that the soil stays evenly moist; if the surface of the soil is dry to the touch, it’s time for a drink. But don’t let roots sit in excess water or they can start to rot.

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.

Do poinsettias need direct sunlight?

Place your poinsettia in indirect light after bringing it home. Poinsettias need six hours of light daily (fluorescent light will work). Keep your plant away from cold windows, warm or cold drafts from furnaces or air conditioners, and open doors and windows.

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.

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.

Where’s the best place to put a poinsettia?

We recommend placing yours by a well-lit window, so that it can receive the proper amount of sunlight. East-facing windows are best so that they can catch the morning’s glow and bask in the afternoon’s shade. Make sure that no part of your plant touches the windowpane, as this may harm the poinsettia.

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.

Do poinsettias rebloom?

Teaches Gardening. Poinsettias are a popular holiday plant. With proper care, the festive plants can rebloom the following year.

How should poinsettias be watered?

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.

Can a poinsettia survive without leaves?

It is perfectly normal for a poinsettia to lose a leaf or two from time to time.

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.

What does an overwatered poinsettia look like?

If your Poinsettia is wilting, or if it has yellowing leaves, this is a sign that it’s likely being overwatered. One way to confirm this is by feeling its soil. If the soil is wet and your plant is wilting then it’s probably being overwatered.

Can poinsettia grow indoors?

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.

Can you overwater a poinsettia?

Poinsettias prefer bright, indirect light and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. A final caution: Do not overwater your poinsettia or let it sit in standing water.

How do I get my poinsettia to turn red again?

How To Get a Poinsettia To Turn Red Help your poinsettia to turn red by placing it in total darkness for 14 hours each day, starting eight weeks before you want to display it. During the day, the plant needs bright light, but it should be placed in complete darkness every evening.

Why are the leaves on my poinsettia turning yellow?

If your poinsettia leaves are turning yellow, this could be caused by watering, lighting, a sudden change in temperature, or improper fertilization. Water when the top 50% of the soil is dry.