How to Buy Poinsettias

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) has become a beloved traditional Christmas plant. Available in white, peach, pink, yellow and red, poinsettias can be purchased almost anywhere in December. Look for plants at florists, department and home improvement stores, garden centers and even gas stations. Choosing the perfect poinsettia that will last through the holidays is tricky, but here are a few tips on how to get the best bloom for the buck.

Instructions

1. Inspect the bracts. Bracts are modified leaves and are the colored portion of the poinsettia plant. Bracts should have good color, mature and not have a great deal of green along the edges.

2. Examine the leaves. Rich, dark green foliage is a sign of health in poinsettia plants. Make sure the leaves are plentiful and are growing down the length of the stem.

3. Note the size of the pot. The poinsettia should be growing in a container appropriate for the plant. The accepted guideline is that the poinsettia should be approximately 2 1/2 times the diameter of the pot.

4. Check the soil. Stick your finger in the soil and test the moisture. Avoid plants with soggy soil and appear to be wilting. This could be a sign of over watering and possibly root rot. Poinsettia soil should be moist and only allowed to become dry to a depth of 1/2 inch.

5. Observe how the poinsettias are being displayed. Be cautious of poinsettia that are displayed in plastic sleeves or crowded together. They need space and crowding can cause the plant to loose bracts.

6. Evaluate the poinsettia's general appearance. The poinsettia should appear full from all angles, without bare spots. The stems should be erect and leaves and bracts do not appear wilted. If leaves or bracts fall from the poinsettia when you pick it up, choose another plant.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to cover the poinsettia when you take it home and the outside temperature is below 50 degrees. Cold can damage the fragile blooms.