Proper poinsettia care will keep plants popping
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Euphorbia pulcherrima, more commonly known as the poinsettia, is native to southern Mexico and was introduced to the United States in 1825. For many years, poinsettias have been accused of being toxic; however, laboratory studies have shown that the leaves, stems, bracts, and flowers are not toxic to people or pets.
When selecting plants as gifts or to beautify your own home, find those with large, brightly colored bracts (show petal-like leaves) that are not wilted, broken or damaged and have a full complement of rich, dark green leaves. Healthy leaves should be present even at the base of the plant.
The true flowers are yellowish button-like structures in the center of the bracts. Avoid plants where the true flowers are shedding pollen or falling off. Bracts normally do not last for long periods after the true flowers fade.
Most people discard their poinsettias after the holidays; however, it is possible to keep the plant and get it to bloom again next season. This process may seem rather overwhelming at first, but it is easy and rewarding.
Continue to water your poinsettia, keeping the soil moist but not wet at all times. Keep the plant away from drafts caused by opening doors or heater vents. Once the temperature outdoors is consistently 55 degrees at night, the plant is ready to be set outside. Transplant the poinsettia into a larger pot and use fast draining potting soil rich in organic matter. In May, the remaining stems need to be cut back about three to six inches above the soil. Once spring is underway, fertilize every two to three weeks with a complete fertilizer. Follow the directions on the fertilizer for flowering plants. The poinsettia needs to be pinched back to control height and to promote a fuller plant. The first pinch should be done when the first shoots are several inches long. Simply remove the upper inch of growth on each stem, leaving four to five leaves per stem. Pinching promotes more branches and ultimately a fuller plant. After pinching, a milky white sap is secreted, and it is a good idea to wash the sap off the plant with a gentle shower. A second pinching may be necessary in early fall. This is the time to bring the plant back indoors to a sunny location where the temperature is 65 to 75 degrees.
Poinsettias are short-day plants; to produce flowers they must experience days with less than 12 hours of daylight. Most varieties of poinsettias require eight to 10 weeks of short days to flower. For full color before Dec. 25, short days need to start in early October. If you want your poinsettia to bloom earlier or later, adjust the initiation of short days. Plants are attractive for four to six weeks after the target flowering date.
If any of the described poinsettia care seems just too tedious and you decide to discard your plant, please consider donating this year's plant to the MSU Lake County Master Gardeners, who will make good use of them for seasons to come. Drop off any unwanted poinsettias at the MSU Lake County Extension Office, 300 Third Ave. NW in Ronan.
