Poinsettia care guide

Pets and children

How often to water Poinsettia

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 3 days

In the growing season water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide; right after the spring cutback there are few leaves, so water more sparingly.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 4 days

Fall slows the drying, so generally wait a day or two after the surface dries.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 7 days

While colored in winter, water sparingly two or three days after the soil dries, on a mild morning, as a guide, and leave no water standing in the pot cover.

Light and placement for Poinsettia

In winter a sunny indoor window is the guide; from May to September it grows well in sun outdoors, out of harsh afternoon sun, and in low light it drops leaves.

Overwintering Poinsettia

Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above

Cold-sensitive: keep it indoors above about 10°C, ideally around 15°C, away from the window at night and from drafts or heaters, and buy a plant that has not been chilled outside a shop.

Fertilizing and repotting Poinsettia

Fertilizer

From April to September, slow-release fertilizer monthly or liquid feed about every two weeks; none once the bracts start to color or in winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Poinsettia

• Soon after purchase the leaves drop from cold or heater drafts.
• Overwatering in winter rots the roots and the leaves wilt.
• Under lights at night it fails to color the next year.

Tips for growing Poinsettia

• In April or May cut it back to about a third and repot one size up.
• From late September, cover it with a box from evening to morning for about 40 days to color the bracts.
• Remove the wrapping and pot cover and empty the saucer.

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