No plant is more representative of the holiday season than the poinsettia. They are native to Mexico and typically bloom in December. It has become known as the “Christmas Plant”.
Pointsettia Growing Wild
With the right care, your poinsettia will continue to bloom for a month to 6 weeks following Christmas.
- Pointsettias like temperatures of at least 55 degrees. 65 to 70 degrees is better however.
- Water your poinsettia regularily. They like consistent, light moisture. They do not like wet feet. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to let your poinsettia dry out for a day so. Once your poinsettia starts to drop leaves, it is too late. It is not going to recover.
- Keep your poinswttia away from pets. Although not toxic, if ingested, it may give your pet a tummy ache.
- If your poinsettia begins to lose its leaves or gets leggy, cut it off and put it in a vase. It will last for a while as a cut flower.
- If you wish, you can plant your poinsettia outside in the garden in the spring. In the fall bring it in and keep it in the dark for 12 hours. It may flower. This is is only for the most ambitious. It is probably easier to go out and purchase a new one next year. Remember to compost the plant when you are finished with it.