How to Care for Your Poinsettias This Holiday Season 🌺🎄
Poinsettias are the quintessential holiday plant — their vibrant red (and sometimes white or pink) leaves bring instant festive cheer to any room. But to keep your poinsettia looking bright and healthy throughout the season and beyond, a little care goes a long way. Here’s everything you need to know to help your poinsettias thrive from Merle’s Flower Shop.
1. Find the Right Spot
Poinsettias love bright, indirect light. Place yours near a sunny window, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Keep them away from cold drafts, heaters, or fireplaces — sudden temperature changes can cause leaves to drop.
2. Keep the Temperature Comfortable
These plants prefer temperatures between 65–75°F during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid temperatures below 60°F to prevent damage.
3. Water Wisely
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water your poinsettia when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom, which can cause root rot. Tip: Drain any excess water from the saucer after watering.
4. Maintain Humidity
Poinsettias appreciate a bit of humidity. If your home is dry, especially with heating running, consider misting the leaves occasionally or placing a humidifier nearby.
5. Avoid Touching the Leaves
The colorful leaves (called bracts) are delicate. Try not to touch or brush against them too much to avoid bruising or damage.
6. Feed Sparingly
If you want to keep your poinsettia healthy after the holidays, feed it once a month with a balanced, all-purpose houseplant fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). No fertilizer is needed while it’s in bloom.
7. After the Holidays: How to Keep Your Poinsettia Year-Round
If you want to enjoy your poinsettia beyond the holidays, place it in a bright spot and continue regular watering. In late spring or early summer, prune back the plant to encourage new growth, and keep it outside in a shaded spot during warm months. To get it to bloom again next winter, poinsettias require a strict cycle of darkness in the fall — but that’s a story for another day!
Poinsettias are more than just pretty plants; they’re a symbol of holiday warmth and joy. With these simple care tips, your poinsettia will brighten your home and holiday season for weeks to come.
Stop by Merle’s Flower Shop for beautiful, fresh poinsettias and all your holiday floral needs!