Poinsettias are a perennial favorite plant this time of year and provide beautiful, bright colors to any gathering or holiday celebration. However, if you want to figure out how to make poinsettias last all season long, this article will guide you to keep these favorite plants blossoming for your holiday memories and beyond.
What Are Poinsettias?
Poinsettias are a common type of houseplant known for their colorful leaves called bracts. They come in various colors, making them a good option for any decorative choice this holiday season. In addition, poinsettias grow well indoors as part of the shrub family native to sub-tropical Mexico. For this reason, they are the perfect choice for holiday decorations.
Poinsettias For The Holidays
As you might notice, poinsettias are traditionally a staple in holiday decorations in homes and businesses. There are several reasons why poinsettias are so ubiquitous this time of year. The first is that, as stated above, poinsettias grow indoors. Colder seasonal climates, like in New England, can depend on poinsettias to flourish even when the weather outside would not permit growth otherwise. Poinsettias come in many colors, although the most common is the festive and traditional red. Finally, they make beautiful place markers and backgrounds for any holiday occasion, which is why they are the annual favorite plant. Here are three ways to make poinsettias last all holiday season.
Indirect Light for Poinsettias
Poinsettias thrive best in specific light conditions. Indirect light is best for poinsettias, which is why they do well, even for weeks at a time. Keep poinsettias away from direct, harsh light for best results. Indoor artificial light is enough to sustain most poinsettias.
Heat Matters
Temperature regulation affects how long poinsettias last. Make sure to keep your plants away from drafty windows and doors. Cool air can damage the bracts and result in a shorter life for your plant. Similarly, heat can also damage your poinsettias. Do you have a heat source like a furnace or fire near where you want to have your plants? Store poinsettias in an indoor area that’s not too cold or warm to make them last as long as possible.
Fertilization Time To Make Poinsettias Last
Once you find the perfect spot to store your poinsettias, the next step is to boost their longevity. You can do that with fertilization. For best results, fertilize your poinsettias after the bracts bloom. If you do it before, it might not last as long. After the bracts blossom, a little bit of fertilizer can make your poinsettias last for all of your holiday get-togethers – and even beyond in some cases. Generally, you can expect poinsettias to bloom for around 4-6 weeks so that you can enjoy them for as long as possible.
Want to get started caring for your holiday plants? Find our poinsettias at your favorite local retailer!
