Poinsettias will be available this weekend! This Euphorbia (be careful of the sap as it can be irritating) can be enjoyed indoors as a centerpiece or on the patio as a decoration and then it can be moved to your garden! That’s a pretty cool feature of living in Florida- we don’t have to trash these beautiful plants after the season is over. Discover our tips for caring for Poinsettias and learn how to enjoy them longer.
When you bring your Poinsettia home, place it near a sunny window, south or west facing is best, so that it will enjoy the most available sunlight. Don’t let the plant’s foliage or flower bracts touch the cold glass of the window as this could damage the plant.
When you’re loving your Poinsettias indoors, examine the soil daily, and when the surface is dry to the touch, water the soil until it runs freely out the drainage hole in the container. The amount of water recommended in the table for use in various sized containers ensures that enough water will be applied so that some will run out the drainage hole. If a saucer is used, discard the water that collects in it. Do not leave the plant standing in water. Overly wet soil lacks sufficient air, which results in root injury. A wilted plant may drop its leaves prematurely, so check the soil frequently. Plants exposed to high light and low humidity require more frequent watering. If wilting does occur, immediately water with the recommended amount, and 5 minutes later, water again. Because Poinsettias like humidity, they can handle regular misting.
To keep the plant in bloom while inside, maintain it at a temperature of 65 to 70 degrees F during the daylight hours and, if possible, move it to a cooler place at night. Because root rot disease is more prevalent at temperatures below 60 degrees F, do not put the poinsettia in a room colder than this.
When the holidays close, plan to bring your Poinsettias into the garden. They will thrive in well-drained soil in a spot that receives many hours of full sun during the day. Pinch them back to keep their shape during the summer months so they will look great next fall. Remember that they are sensitive to the cold so they will need protection if we have a forecast of frost.
Caring for Poinsettias is a careful job, but worth it for the joy they bring year after year.
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The Community Garden Center at Pinder’s Nursery
5500 SW Martin Hwy. Palm City, Florida 34990
Phone #772-781-8085
Monday – Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 4:00pm
