Poinsettias are a beloved holiday plant, known for their vibrant red and green foliage. But what happens to them after the festive season? With a little care, you can keep your poinsettia thriving and even encourage it to bloom again next year. Here’s a guide to help you take care of your poinsettia after Christmas.
1. Immediate Post-Holiday Care
Once the holiday season is over, your poinsettia might start to look a bit tired. Here’s what you can do to keep it healthy:
Light: Place your poinsettia in a spot where it can receive bright, indirect light.
Watering: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Temperature: Keep the plant in a room where the temperature stays between 60-70°F
2. Pruning and Repotting
As spring approaches, your poinsettia will need some pruning and possibly repotting:
In early Spring, start trimming your plant.
Repot your poinsettia if necessary.
3. Summer Care
During the summer months, your poinsettia can benefit from being outdoors:
Outdoor Placement: Once the danger of frost has passed, you can move your poinsettia outside to a shaded area.
4. Preparing for Reblooming
To get your poinsettia to bloom again for the next holiday season, you’ll need to follow a specific light regimen starting in the fall:
Light and Darkness: From late September to early October, ensure your poinsettia gets 14-16 hours of complete darkness each night. You can achieve this by placing it in a dark closet or covering it with a box. During the day, give it bright indirect sunlight.
5. General Tips:
Humidity: Poinsettias prefer a humid environment.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your poinsettia year-round and look forward to its beautiful blooms each holiday season. Happy gardening!
