7 Simple Steps to Care for Your Holiday Poinsettia

The holidays are here, and you will likely be giving and/or receiving a beautiful poinsettia soon.  Here are some easy steps to make your gorgeous plants last a long time. 

1. Poinsettias are very fragile!  Upon receipt, carefully remove any packaging by cutting it off. 

2. If there are any broken branches, remove them. 

3. Add water if the plant feels dry.  Water until the soil feels moist.

4.  Keep your plant in bright, indirect sunlight during the day.  At night, be sure that it is in complete darkness.

5. Do not allow the plant to completely dry out, also keeping in mind to not over water it.

6.  Keep the plant away from drafts and excessive heat.

7. Enjoy your plant for the season! 

After the holidays, fertilize the plant if necessary, cut the branches back in May, pinch by mid-August, and keep it in total darkness at night after October 1. 

Follow these simple steps, and you will have a plant that you can enjoy over and over again!