Keeping Poinsettias Alive

last year’s 50 cent on sale poinsettia is now getting ready to rebloom. (charlotte ekker wiggins photo)

“I can never keep mine alive. Any tips?” — Carrie J.

Keeping Poinsettias Alive

Hi Carrie, most people overwater these tropical plants so let the top once inch dry out in between watering.

Also make sure to take your poinsettia out of the plastic foil they usually come in, that foil doesn’t allow water to evaporate. Add a plant saucer to the bottom of the pot and monitor to make sure the poinsettia is not sitting in standing water.

I have mine getting indirect light all year. Some years I take them out over summer and place them in shade, then bring them in early fall.

Once the old colored leaves fall off, I give mine half the recommended dose of all purpose fertilizer through summer and stop early fall.

When inside, I keep them in my business office where they get exposed to darkness at night.

I started to see their bracts changing color about a month ago, one white and one red so this routine has served them well.

If well cared for, these can grow into small ornamental trees!

Charlotte

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