Poinsettia Growing: Poinsettias Prolong Holiday Beauty

Poinsettia varieties have improved greatly so that they last a long time in many homes. Their durability is not certain, however, unless the plants are cared for properly. Poinsettias are well adapted to home temperatures since they are plants from tropical and semi tropical areas. They are believed to be native to the area around present day Taxco, Mexico. Because of the poinsettia's natural flowering time close to Christmas, Franciscan priests in that area commonly used the plant in nativity processions. The native poinsettia is a rather tall-growing shrubby plant, and its use as a potted Christmas flower is much more recent. Early varieties were grown for cut flowers, because they grew too tall for potted plants and dropped leaves quickly.

The modern era of the potted poinsettia began about 1923 with the introduction of a seedling variety named "Oak Leaf." Since then, and particularly in the past 35 years, many new varieties have been developed with short, compact growth, excellent foliage retention and large bract size. Bracts are leaf-like structures that provide the brilliant color around the small central flower cluster.

Poinsettias need a lot of water. Nevertheless, they are somewhat subject to root rot diseases, which may take hold if plants are overwatered. They should be kept lightly moist, not allowed to wilt, but not allowed to stand in water. Poinsettias can be chilled at temperatures below 45 degrees. Therefore, care should be taken so they are not exposed to cold temperatures during transit. If they are taken outdoors in cold weather, they should be well wrapped for protection.

Normal home temperatures are ideal, but plants last longer if kept in a cool room where temperatures do not drop below 60 degrees or rise above 70. To last longest, poinsettias need good light and should be placed in a bright window. Direct sunlight is not necessary if light is good However, in mid-winter, it will not be harmful to give them direct sunlight. Intense light in spring tends to fade bract color. Poinsettias require special conditions to re-bloom them another year, and many prefer to discard the plant after flowering.

Those who want to try to save a plant, but do not care to keep it in sight after flowering, may allow it to dry off so leaves drop. It may then be kept in a closet or basement until early spring when it may be cut back and brought to a sunny window. If a plant is in good condition it may remain on display until spring when the stem or stems should be cut back. Allow only a few leaves remaining on the base of each stem. During April these stubs should begin to sprout new shoots. At that time the plant should be kept in a bright, sunny window. After all danger of frost is past, poinsettias may be placed outdoors for summer. Tips should be cut from developing shoots occasionally to induce branching and make bushier plants.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poinsettia