Nothing heralds the Christmas Season like the poinsettia. Poinsettias are the most beloved Christmas plant and can remain vibrant and sparkling fresh with proper care that’s simple and easy to maintain! Every home should have pitted poinsettias at Christmas! With proper selection and care, poinsettias will last throughout the Christmas season and well into the New Year.
Selecting Poinsettias
The first step is to choose a healthy plant from a reputable nursery. Plants should be lush looking, well shaped and with no dried or scorched leaves.
The two most important factors for caring at home or the office are correct lighting and proper watering. The environment is also a consideration.
Lighting for Poinsettias
Plants must in placed in a bright, well lit area with window or patio light but direct sunlight must be avoided as that will scorch the leaves and injure the plant.
Watering Poinsettias
From our years of experience being Jamaica’s premier growers of poinsettias, overwatering has been the main cause of injury. Poinsettias must be well watered once received, then the soil must be allowed to dry to the touch but not completely dry. When the pot feels light it’s time to water again.
Environment for Poinsettias
Poinsettias will perform best in an area with moderate humidity – that’s not very hot or dry. (Some customers place a tray of water close to the plant, if the area is really dry).
Fertilizing Poinsettias
While in bloom, poinsettias do not require fertilizers. After the season, plants can be pruned, repotted, fertilized and moved outdoors to a partially shaded area.
By following these simple steps your poinsettias will remain healthy and vibrant throughout the Christmas season.