WwW: Poinsettias

Wednesdays with Wayne
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Question:  I received a poinsettia for Christmas. It is beautiful but now what do I do with it? ~Ruth, Salina

Wayne says...

There is no need to throw out your poinsettia along with your Christmas tree. Poinsettia care, if done properly, will keep your plant healthy for a long time.  

Keeping the soil moist, but not soggy, is essential when caring for poinsettias. This can be accomplished by watering it thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure the container has drain holes. It is imperative to remove any excess water from the saucer. Poinsettias do best in high humidity with a temperature range of 60 degrees at night and 72 degrees during the day. Avoid exposing poinsettias to temperature swings from cold drafts, heating vents or doorways. Poinsettias need approximately six hours of indirect light. Do not fertilize when the plant is blooming. Temperature swings, over-watering, under-watering, over exposure and lack of light will cause stress to the poinsettia. Stress of any type will cause the bracts to have a shorter life.

For you serious gardeners who want to ensure a re-flowering of your poinsettia, access the following web link to view instructions and illustrious of the growth cycle.
 
http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/vista/html_pubs/point/point.htm
If Poinsettias aren't your thing, stop by The Flower Nook and choose from our tropical plant selection!

If you have a question, feel free to email us at flowernooksalina@gmail.com or stop by The Flower Nook. If your question is featured on our blog, you could win a prize!