7 Secrets to Keeping Your Poinsettia Plant Thriving Throughout December
Nothing embodies the spirit of Christmas quite like potted poinsettia plants!
Whether or not you’ve ever owned a poinsettia, it’s impossible to overlook the numerous displays of these plants throughout garden centers, grocery stores, and shopping center windows during December.
If you’ve had one before, you know how much vibrancy they are to a room. They’re truly something special.
But how do you keep them looking as beautiful as when you first bought them?
It’s pretty simple. Follow the tips below and do your best to give your poinsettia plant the care and environment it received at the nursery.
Several key factors contribute to thriving poinsettias, from proper watering techniques to ideal light conditions.
1) Avoid exposure to draughts and sudden shifts
This is a fun-fact that’s pretty important.
Poinsettias grown indoors are very sensitive to sudden temperature changes, which is why it’s best to take them home quickly after you purchase them. Try to rush them into your car and home to avoid prolonged exposure to the chilly air.
(If you’re in a warmer climate, however, you probably don’t need to worry about this part.)
You’ll also want to keep your beautiful poinsettia away from front or back doors that are frequently opened so as to keep the cold air from bursting in.
Don’t place your plant near heating vents, radiators, or air conditioning units.
The heat from your heater can cause the plant to drop its leaves from too much stress.
Yes- they’re that sensitive!
Plants, especially houseplants, often take a few days to adjust to their new environment.
They typically experience some level of stress, but they’re usually able to adapt as long as the change in environment isn’t too drastic for too long.
Aim to maintain a consistent environment for your poinsettia by keeping the room temperature between 65-70°F (18-21°C) during the day.
2. Water sparingly only when the soil is dry
Poinsettias thrive with minimal watering during December. This plant does not need a ton of water and definitely doesn’t appreciate soggy soil.
Make it a goal to check the soil moisture every few days.
If it feels dry about an inch deep, it’s time to water!
Water your plant using room-temperature water. Never use ice cubes to water houseplants!
Let the water soak the soil until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot.
Always remember to dump out any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot. This step is super important! If you’re keeping your plant inside the decorative foil lining it usually comes in, make sure to drain the water before placing it back into the foil.
As far as watering frequency, it’s best to let the top of the soil dry out between waterings.
If the leaves start to yellow or wilt, you’re likely watering too frequently. You don’t need to keep the soil consistently moist, as poinsettias typically need less water during winter.
Depending on your home’s temperature and humidity levels, you might only need to water once every 7 days or more.
3) Place near sunny windows for ideal light
Poinsettias need bright, indirect sunlight to maintain their beauty.
Position your plant near a sunny window to ensure it receives adequate light throughout the day.
South-facing windows are often ideal.
To protect this temperature-sensitive plant, don’t let the leaves touch the window, as it may be cold due to outdoor temperatures.
Rotate your poinsettia every few days to promote even growth, which is a good rule of thumb for all flowering houseplants.
This simple step helps prevent the plant from leaning towards the light source and helps it maintain its bushy shape; you don’t want your poinsettia to grow leggy!
If you notice your poinsettia’s leaves drooping, it may be a sign that it’s not getting enough light. Try moving it to a brighter spot in your home to perk it up.
4) Maintain indoor temperatures between 65-75°F
Poinsettias thrive in environments that mimic their native habitat.
To create the ideal conditions, keep your home’s temperature between 65-72°F (18-24°C).
Avoid placing your poinsettias near drafty windows or doors. Remember that cold air can damage their delicate leaves and cause them to drop prematurely.
As mentioned above, keep them from heat sources like heating vents, radiators or fireplaces. Excessive heat can dry out the soil and stress out the plant.
5) Provide higher humidity by misting regularly
Poinsettias thrive in humid environments, so a dry environment can cause them to wilt and appear lackluster.
You can give your plant a boost by providing its immediate environment was more moisture.
To do this, you can mist around the leaves every few days. Or, you can place a pebble-filled tray with water beneath the pot to improve moisture levels in the air.
If misting, the best time of day is morning, as this will give the leaves plenty of time to dry off before cooler temps set it.
If you live in a particularly dry climate, try misting daily and see how that works out.
Pay attention to your poinsettia’s appearance—drooping or curling leaves often require increased humidity.
For optimal vibrancy, maintain your usual watering schedule alongside regular misting for your plants.
6) Prune dead leaves to encourage new growth
The most important and easiest way to prune is to pull off any leaves that have begun to brown or wrinkle. This will keep your plant looking fresh and healthy.
By removing these leaves, you’ll be helping the plant redirect its energy into growing new leaves, which in turn helps to produce a fuller-looking poinsettia plant.
Always aim to make clean cuts or tears.
If you notice soft or mushy leaves, those should go. They’re often a sign of overwatering, so cut back on your watering frequency since you don’t want to cause a rotting root system.
With proper deadheading, you’ll help your plant grow healthier leaves quickly.
I hope these simple tips and poinsettia facts help you maintain the beauty of your own poinsettia plants! May you also be inspired to use this special plant as a part of your Christmas decor.
Happy Holidays!
Natalie