Keep your poinsettias indoors during the winter season. Poinsettias are tropical and cannot live below 50°F / 10°C.
La cuetlaxochitl, known in North America as poinsettias, are native to Mexico and Central America. Poinsettias are not flowers—they’re shrubs with red and green leaves. They’re also known as other names such as Mexican flame flower or the Christmas Eve flower.
Keep your poinsettia in a location with bright, indirect light. While they love light, direct sun can lead to leaf burn.
Maintain a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Poinsettias are sensitive to extreme temperature changes.
Poinsettias like their soil to be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your poinsettia when the soil feels dry to the touch and make sure your pot has proper drainage.
Poinsettias prefer higher humidity levels like the tropics. Increase humidity levels around your poinsettia by placing a tray of water nearby or employing a humidifier.
Keep the plant away from drafts—such as cold drafts from windows, doors, or heaters. Sudden temperature changes can cause leaf drop.
After the holidays, like in late winter or early spring, prune the plant back to encourage future growth leaving around four to six inches of the stem.
During spring and summer, feed your poinsettia with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks.
To “rebloom” the red leaves, starting in early fall, place the poinsettia in complete darkness for 14 hours each day for about 6-8 weeks. This mimics its natural light conditions to initiate the blooming process.
Keep an eye out for pests like whiteflies or aphids. If you notice any, treat the plant with insecticidal soap.
Inspect your poinsettia regularly for signs of disease, pests, or stress. Whiteflies and aphids can be treated with insecticidal soap.
