THE
DO'S AND DON'TS OF POINSETTIA CARE
- Select plants
with stiff stems, good bract retention and no signs of wilting, breaking
or drooping.
- Be wary of plants
displayed in paper, plastic or mesh sleeves, or plants that are too
closely crowded in a sales display. A poinsettia needs its space,
and the longer a plant remains sleeved, the more the plant quality
will deteriorate. Crowding can reduce air flow around the plants
and cause premature bract loss or other problems.
- Examine the plant's
soil: it's best to avoid waterlogged soil, particularly if the plant
appears wilted. Such a condition could signify irreversible root
rot.
- When transporting
the plant, protect it from chilling winds and temperatures below
50° F. Re-inserting the poinsettia into a sleeve or a large,
roomy shopping bag will usually provide adequate protection for transporting
the plant home when it is cold and windy.
- DO place
your plant in indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day. If
direct sun can't be avoided, diffuse the light with a shade or sheer
curtain.
- DO provide
room temperatures between 68 - 70° F. Generally speaking, if
you are comfortable, so is your poinsettia.
- DO water
your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- DO use
a large, roomy shopping bag to protect your plant when transporting
it.
- DO fertilize
your plant AFTER THE BLOOMING SEASON with a balanced, all-purpose
fertilizer.
- DON'T place
plants near cold drafts or excessive heat. Avoid placing plants near
appliances, fireplaces or ventilating ducts.
- DON'T expose
plants to temperatures below 50° F. Poinsettias are sensitive
to cold, so avoid placing them outside during the winter months.
- DON'T overwater
your plant, or allow it to sit in standing water. Always remove a
plant from any decorative container before watering, and allow the
water to drain completely.
- DON'T expose
your plant to chilling winds when transporting it.
- DON'T fertilize
your plant when it is in bloom.
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