What Is the Proper Care for Poinsettia Plants?
Poinsettias are a popular potted flower native to the southern part of Mexico. This plant has large, brightly colored bracts or petal-like leaves and is associated with Christmas-time for its red and green colors. Does this Spark an idea?
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Winter Care
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During the winter, poinsettias should be kept at temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit to encourage blooming. Water whenever the soil feels dry, adding enough water to let the excess flow out of the bottom of the pot. Do not allow the poinsettia to sit in a saucer full of water, though -- it can damage the roots.
Off-Season Care
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Discarding poinsettias in spring and summer is unnecessary; plants can be kept and encouraged to bloom again. Cut the plant back to 3 to 6 inches above the soil in late spring. If the original pot contained several stems, separate and repot them. Fertilize every two to three weeks and pinch growth back in midsummer to produce a fuller plant.
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Short Days
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Poinsettias bloom best when exposed to less than 12 hours of daylight for eight to 10 weeks. This may be done by putting the plant in a dark closet or box during the night. In areas with extreme changes in day length, this may not be necessary.
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References
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