Poinsettia plant care to keep them fresh
When it comes to decorating your home for the holidays, there are several options. Your Christmas tree will be the main attraction, while a wreath on your door or wall at home will also be a great addition. You can also add a poinsettia plant or two if you want to add colour to other areas of your home. Since it can be difficult to care for plants, it’s always a good idea to prepare them before bringing poinsettias into your home. Below are some important care tips to keep in mind.
Natural life cycle
The first thing to remember is that a poinsettia plant does not have a particularly long life cycle. You can expect it to last through the holiday season and into the new year. However, once the climate begins to warm, your poinsettia plant will begin to die. With considerable effort, these plants can be encouraged to flower during the following holiday season.
The right location
Your poinsettia plant must be placed in the right place if you want it to last through the holidays. Keep the plant away from any heat source (fireplaces, stoves, etc.) and from windy areas. If you place your plant near a window, make sure the plant is not touching the cold glass of the window and is not exposed to excessive direct sunlight.
Remove any packaging
When your poinsettia plant is delivered to you or when you purchase it from your local florist, it will most likely be in a pot wrapped with some type of decorative paper. Be sure to remove this wrapping immediately and place the plant in a drip tray. This will allow the soil to breathe so the roots don’t rot.
Temperature and water
Last but not least, don’t forget to keep your poinsettia plant at the right temperature. They enjoy moderate temperatures, so be sure not to let the room get too hot or the leaves will start to wilt. As for irrigation, it is advisable to water only when the soil begins to dry. You should also let the water drain completely before placing the plant back in the drip tray.
With these simple tips, you’ll get the most out of every poinsettia plant this holiday season. If you plan to send one as a gift to a loved one, you may want to make sure they receive a copy of these tips as well.