How to Take Care of a Poinsettia

The most popular plant for gift giving during the holiday season is the poinsettia, but many people do not know how to take care of a poinsettia. This lovely plant appears to have red flowers, but the red flowers are actually leaves, which are also known as bracts, and the leaves turn the lovely red that is reminiscent of the poinsettia. This article will provide you with detailed instructions on how to take care of a poinsettia.

Light

Plants need light to survive, and this holiday houseplant is no different. It should be placed by a window that receives a lot of sun. " South, east or west facing windows are preferable to a north facing windows" because it will receive the maximum amount of light from these windows (Iannotti, pp. 2). Poinsettias are naturally found in tropical climate and will benefit from as much sunlight as possible.

Heat

Warmth is another important factor to consider when learning how to take care of your poinsettia. To maintain the longest bloom period for this plant you will need to "maintain a temperature of 65 - 75 degrees F. during the day" (Iannotti, pp.3). The night time temperature can be a few degrees colder without harming the plant in any way, but cold breezes and contact with cold surfaces can cause the plant to lose its leaves. Heavy shifts in temperature can also have a negative impact on your poinsettias and should be avoided.

Water

When learning how to take care of your poinsettia plant, water should be taken into consideration. Poinsettias should be watered "whenever the surface feels dry to the touch" (Ianotti, pp.4). Water your plant until the water seeps out of the bottom of the container. This will make sure the plant is adequately moist. Remember to remove the standing water because it can cause your plant to wilt and lose its leaves.

Humidity

Humidity is not always considered by many houseplant owners, but it can do damage to your plants and decrease their growth rate. Poinsettias like humidity, which can be lacking in the cold winter months, and will need to be watered more often if there is lack f humidity in the home.

Learning how to take care of your poinsettia is easy as long as you know the basics. This information will help you keep your plant happy and healthy throughout the holiday season.

Reference:

Iannotti, M. (n.d.). Poinsettias - Caring for Holiday Poinsettias and Getting Them to Bloom Next Year. About Gardening: Gardening Ideas, Garden Design, Gardening Tips & Advice, Garden Pictures . Retrieved December 6, 2010, from http://gardening.about.com/od/wi