You’re mistaken if you think that poinsettias only live for one season, and that they’ll say goodbye to their earthly existence after Christmas. Of course, if a plant doesn’t get what it needs, it will, but if you learn how to look after this colorful flower, it could still be the jewel in your home next Christmas – since it is a perennial!
Did you know that poinsettias originated in Mexico and are considered the flower of love and happiness? What makes them special is that, besides red, they come in versions with white, pink or striped leaves, which look even more beautiful.
The good news is that you don’t have to be an expert, just need to focus on a few things to make poinsettias thrive for a long time.
Five tricks to make your poinsettias happy
Watering
Poinsettias don’t need to be watered daily. Watering every 2-3 days is enough, and you don’t have to give them a generous amount. Use lukewarm water and always make sure that the leaves remain dry, as water drops may cause brown spots.
Light requirement
A poinsettia will remain beautiful if placed in the brightest part of your home, but never in direct sunlight (luckily there is very little chance of this in the winter months) and you make sure it is not exposed to draughts. If you keep the pot on the windowsill, move it to a sheltered spot before you air the room, take it down, because cold air is harmful for it.
What to do after the holidays
As poinsettia doesn’t like direct sunlight, be sure to find a new place for it in the spring. It’s best to move the pot to a shadier place than before, but never into a dark room.
Pruning
Poinsettia needs to be pruned in the spring and summer months. If you want the plant to produce new shoots, cut off any branches that remain after the leaves have fallen. New leaf sprouts may appear in their place around September and October.
Transplanting
If you manage to keep the poinsettia alive, you will also get the benefit of a larger plant, which will need a larger pot to grow comfortably. Choose a suitably sized pot and replant the poinsettia in early summer, and in autumn, when the sun’s glare is weakening, move it back to the spot where it spent Christmas the previous year.