How to Turn Your Poinsettia Red for Christmas

With their vivid shades of red, poinsettias are the perfect Christmas flower. Also known as the Mexican flameleaf, poinsettias are used for decoration at Christmas time in many areas of the world. If you’ve successfully managed to keep your poinsettia alive from last year, then October is when you need to start preparing your poinsettia for a brilliant display at Christmas.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Poinsettia plant
• Dark closet or cupboard
• Warm, sunny windowsill

1. As the outside temperatures start to drop, poinsettias should be moved indoors. Keep poinsettias in total darkness between 5 pm and 8 am in temperatures around 65 degrees F (18 degrees C). A closet or cupboard that seals off all light will work perfectly. The poinsettia will initiate flowering and coloring of the bracts (leaves) in response to the reduced day length (photoperiod).

2. Move the poinsettia to a sunny location during the day, say on a windowsill, as these plants require warmth. Ensure the poinsettia is not placed in a direct draft (from a heating vent etc.)

3. 
    
   Leaves starting to turn red

   After a couple of weeks, watch in amazement as the leaves start to change color! After mid-December, leave the poinsettia in a warm, sunny spot to enjoy throughout the holidays.

4. Apply water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure the poinsettia is well-drained. Fertilizer is not required at this time. Happy holidays!

[mizzshady]

on 12/6/2009 Turn Your Poinsettia Red for Christmas is almost mandatory.. 5*

[soanyway]

on 11/16/2009 Very cool! who would have thought. Started out sounding like my sleep pattern! lol