THE DO'S AND DON’T’S OF POINSETTIA CARE
* Select plants with stiff stems, good bract retention and
no signs of wilting, breaking or drooping.
* Be wary of plants displayed in paper, plastic or mesh
sleeves, or plants that are too closely crowded in a sales display. A
poinsettia needs its space, and the longer a plant remains sleeved, the more
the plant quality will deteriorate. Crowding can reduce air flow around the
plants and cause premature bract loss or other problems.
* Examine the plant's soil: it's best to avoid waterlogged
soil, particularly if the plant appears wilted. Such a condition could signify
irreversible root rot.
* When transporting the plant, protect it from chilling
winds and temperatures below 50° F. Re-inserting the poinsettia into a sleeve
or a large, roomy shopping bag will usually provide adequate protection for
transporting the plant home when it is cold and windy.
* DO place your plant in indirect sunlight for at least six
hours per day. If direct sun can't
be avoided, diffuse the light with a shade or sheer curtain.
* DO provide room temperatures between 68 - 70° F. Generally
speaking, if you are
comfortable, so is your poinsettia.
* DO water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
* DO use a large, roomy shopping bag to protect your plant
when transporting it.
* DO fertilize your plant AFTER THE BLOOMING SEASON with a
balanced, all- purpose
fertilizer
* DON'T place plants near cold drafts or excessive heat.
Avoid placing plants near appliances,
fireplaces or ventilating ducts.
* DON'T expose plants to temperatures below 50° F.
Poinsettias are sensitive to cold, so
avoid placing them outside during the winter months.
* DON'T over water your plant, or allow it to sit in
standing water. Always remove a plant from any decorative container before
watering, and allow the water to drain completely.
* DON'T expose your plant to chilling winds when
transporting it.
* DON'T fertilize your plant when it is in bloom.