Proper care helps poinsettias thrive

BATON ROUGE — Scores of poinsettias are available in stores and garden centers throughout Louisiana.
“If you purchase a poinsettia now, you can expect it to last until the New Year if you give proper consideration to selection and care,” said LSU AgCenter horticulturist Allen Owings.
Points to consider when purchasing poinsettias for the holidays include the size and number of the colored leaves — which are referred to as bracts. Bracts should be large and extend over the lower green leaves.
The number and size of bracts usually dictate plant price, Owings said. “A premium-quality poinsettia usually has at least six bracts and should have more.”
Inspect the lower green leaves on poinsettias. Leaves should have good appearance and extend over the rim of the pot. Drooping leaves may indicate problems. Also check for insects, primarily white flies, underneath the lower leaves.
Plants with cyathia that are showing yellow pollen and sap will have the least amount of display life left. Plants with smaller cyathia, little to no pollen and no sap will have the longest display life, Owings said. “A poinsettia should last for four to six weeks in the home with proper care.”
To prolong the beauty and health of poinsettias once they are in the home, proper care is essential, Owings said. Although poinsettias do not become acclimated to interior settings as well as most foliage plants, it is easy to be successful.
Select a location that receives some sunlight. Interior hallways are a poor location. It also is very important to avoid exposing the plant to sudden temperature changes, so don’t place the poinsettia near a ventilation system or in a drafty spot near a doorway.
“Temperatures found in most homes are acceptable, and the ideal is to provide 70- to 75-degree daytime temperatures and 62- to 65-degree nights,” he said.
As for watering, allow the soil surface to dry out thoroughly before watering with warm water. Just the soil surface should be dry to the touch before watering again. “Avoid water or mist on the colored bracts, and do not let the poinsettia stand in water for more than 30 minutes to an hour,” Owings said.
Poinsettias, amaryllis, Christmas cactus, rosemary, Norfolk Island pines and several other plants can be used to brighten your home during the holiday season, Owings added. You can find them on sale now.