How to look after your Christmas poinsettia properly, according to the RHS
The Christmas tree is up and the wreath is hanging on the door – but what about your poinsettia? How can we take care of them to make sure they last as long as possible?
With their green stems and large red, pink or white bracts (not petals), they are a festive favourite. Here, the RHS share their tips on how to look after them.
How to care for a poinsettia
Buy your plant from a warm display inside a greenhouse or garden centre
Avoid buying plants that have been outdoors or sat on pavements
Ask for the plant to be wrapped before taking it home
Don't leave the plant in the car to get cold, as this is when bracts and leaves fall off
Keep the plant between 16-21C, although cooler is better than too hot
Make sure there's no draught neat the plant
Put it near a window for plenty of bright light
Keep it away from direct dry heat of a radiators or fires
Don't leave it in an empty hearths or windowsills overnight
If you can, keep it on a tray of damp pebbles for humidity
Water when leaves show signs of wilting
Use tepid water and pour from the top, but make sure it's not soggy
Don't water again until the soil is dry, but not bone dry
Give it a tomato feed every week
If you've been successful in caring for your plant into spring, cut it back in April, repot in May and give it access to plenty of light throughout the summer.
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