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How to Care for
the Poinsettia … Tenderly
The life of the poinsettia, if cared for properly
during the holidays, can be extended throughout the year.
During the Holidays
- When selecting a poinsettia, choose tightly clustered, small,
central flowers with crisp and bright foliage.
- When surface soil is dry to the touch, water thoroughly.
Discard excess water in the saucer.
- To prolong color, keep a temperature rage of 60 degrees for
night and 72 degrees for day. High humidity is preferable.
- Avoid cold drafts and protect from cold winds.
To Re-bloom for the Next Season
- During winter, continue to follow holiday upkeep tips.
- When bracts fade, cut back to eight inches.
- Lightly fertilize every three to four weeks.
- When temperatures are warm, place plant out-of-doors; first
in indirect, then direct light. Avoid temperatures below 50
degrees throughout summer.
- Cut back stems and branches twice during the summer. Repot
if needed.
- On Labor Day, move plant inside. Provide six or more hours
of direct light.
- From October 1 through mid-December, confine plant to darkness
for 14 hours, giving it 10 hours of natural light. This will
force the green bracts to color.
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