Poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are attractive house plants with dark green leaves and leafy red “bracts” that surround the green-yellow flowers in December and January.

They’re commonly used to decorate the home during Christmas.

Native to Mexico, poinsettias can be tricky to keep alive after Christmas, but with proper care, it’s possible to keep them thriving throughout the year and even encourage red bracts and flowers to form in time for the following Christmas.

Annual Vegetative Calendar for Poinsettia

Poinsettias, known for their vibrant holiday colors, require specific care throughout the year to rebloom. Here’s an annual vegetative calendar tailored for Poinsettia care.

Spring

Month	Tasks	Description
March	Pruning	Cut back stems to about 6 inches to encourage bushy growth.
	Watering	Begin regular watering as new growth appears, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
April	Repotting	Repot into a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix if roots are crowded.
	Fertilization	Start fertilizing with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks.
May	Light Adjustment	Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light. Move outdoors if temperatures allow.

Summer

Month	Tasks	Description
June	Outdoor Care	If moved outdoors, place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Continue regular care.
July	Pinching	Pinch back new growth to encourage branching and a fuller plant.
August	Continued Care	Keep up with watering, fertilizing, and pinching as needed.

Fall

Month	Tasks	Description
September	Light Control	Begin controlling light exposure to encourage bud formation: 14 hours of darkness, 10 hours of light daily.
October	Monitor Progress	Continue the light control regimen and watch for bud development. Adjust care as needed.
November	Bloom Preparation	Continue care and begin to see the development of colored bracts.

Winter

Month	Tasks	Description
December	Enjoy Blooms	Display your poinsettia during the holiday season. Reduce fertilization and maintain watering.
January	Post-Holiday Care	After holiday display, continue watering but allow the plant to rest by reducing fertilization.
February	Rest Period	Keep the plant in a cool, bright location. Water sparingly until spring when new growth begins.

Caring for poinsettias involves a mix of regular maintenance tasks such as watering, fertilizing, and pruning, along with critical light management in the fall to ensure the colorful bracts reappear. By following this vegetative calendar, you can enjoy the festive beauty of poinsettias in your home year after year.

Adjust care routines as needed based on your home’s specific conditions and the needs of your plant.

How to Grow Poinsettia

Poinsettias, scientifically known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, are attractive houseplants native to Mexico.

They are popularly used to decorate homes during the Christmas season.

To keep your poinsettia alive and encourage red bracts and flowers to form for the following Christmas, it requires some care and attention.

Here are some tips on how to grow and care for poinsettias:

• Light Requirements: Poinsettias should be kept in bright, indirect light. Place them in a spot with plenty of natural light, away from direct sunlight, to avoid scorching the leaves.
• Temperature: Poinsettias prefer a temperature of around 13-15°C (55-59°F). Avoid exposing them to drafts or sudden temperature changes, as they can be sensitive to cold.
• Watering: Water poinsettias sparingly and only when the surface of the compost has started to dry out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to ensure proper drainage and avoid letting them sit in water-filled saucers.
• Humidity: Poinsettias appreciate a humid environment, especially in dry rooms. You can increase humidity levels by misting the plants regularly or placing a tray of water near them.
• Fertilization: After Christmas, you can feed your poinsettias monthly with a high potash liquid feed, such as tomato feed, to support their growth and blooming.
• Pruning: To maintain a compact and bushy shape, you can prune poinsettias in early spring by cutting back the stems to encourage new growth.
• Reblooming: If you want your poinsettias to bloom again next year, you can provide them with the required short-day period. Starting around October, keep the plants in complete darkness for 14-16 hours each day for about 8-10 weeks. During the day, they should receive bright, indirect light. Following this period, you can return them to regular light conditions, and with proper care, they should start producing bracts and flowers again.

Where to Grow Poinsettia

Poinsettias are tropical plants that prefer warm climates. In their natural habitat, they thrive in southern Mexico and Central America.

However, with proper care, poinsettias can be grown as houseplants or outdoor plants in different regions.

Here are some considerations for where to grow poinsettias:

1. Indoor Growth: Poinsettias are well-suited as indoor houseplants. They thrive in bright, indirect light and can be placed in various locations, such as living rooms, kitchens, or offices.
2. Outdoor Growth: In regions where winter temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C), poinsettias can be grown as perennial garden shrubs. They require well-draining soil and a sunny to partially shaded location in the garden. Proper protection from frost and cold is necessary in colder climates.

With proper care and attention, poinsettias can bring vibrant colors and festive beauty to your home during the holiday season and beyond.

Remember to follow the specific guidelines for light, temperature, watering, and pruning to ensure the optimal growth and longevity of your poinsettias.

How to Plant and Care for Poinsettia

If you’ve received or purchased a poinsettia and want to ensure its longevity, proper care is essential.

Here, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to plant and care for poinsettias, ensuring that they remain healthy and attractive throughout the holiday season and beyond.

How to Plant Poinsettia

When planting poinsettias, it’s important to provide them with the right growing conditions to thrive.

Here are three essential steps to follow when planting poinsettias:

• Choose a healthy plant: Select a poinsettia with dark green foliage and brightly colored bracts. Avoid plants with wilting or yellowed leaves, as these may indicate poor health.
• Observe the display conditions: Check that the plant looks full and attractive, and ensure it is not crowded among other plants, as this can lead to premature bract loss. The plant’s height should be about two and a half times the diameter of its pot.
• Check the leaves and soil: Examine the soil moisture by feeling the top layer; if it is excessively wet, it may indicate root rot. Additionally, inspect the underside of the leaves for any signs of pests or disease.

How to Care for Poinsettia

Caring for poinsettias involves providing the right light, water, temperature, and humidity conditions.

Follow these guidelines to ensure proper care for your poinsettias:

• Light: Poinsettias thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a sunny window, but avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
• Watering: Water the poinsettia thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage by allowing excess water to drain from the pot.
• Temperature and humidity: Poinsettias prefer a semi-cool environment with temperatures between 60 to 70°F (15 to 21°C). Avoid exposing them to drafts or extreme temperature changes. Increasing humidity levels around the plants by using humidifiers or placing other plants nearby can help maintain optimal conditions.
• Fertilizing: After the flower bracts have fallen, you can choose to keep the poinsettia for another year. Reduce watering frequency and move the plant to a cool, dark area until spring. Fertilize the plant monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Remember, poinsettias are mildly toxic to pets, so keep them out of reach from curious animals.

Poinsettia Pruning and Propagation

Poinsettias are not only beautiful plants but also popular choices for holiday decorations.

Pruning and propagation are important aspects of poinsettia care to ensure their health and longevity.

We will explore the techniques and methods for pruning and propagating poinsettias, allowing you to maintain their vibrant appearance and even expand your collection.

How to Prune Poinsettia

Pruning poinsettias is crucial for their overall health and shape.

Here are three steps to follow when pruning your poinsettias:

1. Timing: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, once the colorful bracts have faded. This allows the plant to enter a period of dormancy and prepare for new growth.
2. Cutting back: Begin by cutting back the main stems of the poinsettia to around six inches above the soil level. This encourages the plant to produce new growth from the base.
3. Maintenance pruning: Throughout the growing season, pinch or prune back the poinsettia’s stems to promote bushier growth. This can be done by removing the top one or two pairs of leaves from each stem.

How to Propagate Poinsettia

If you’re interested in expanding your poinsettia collection or sharing them with others, propagation is an excellent option.

Follow these steps to propagate poinsettias:

• Selecting a stem cutting: Choose a healthy stem from the poinsettia plant, ideally with a length of four to six inches. Make sure the stem is free from diseases or pests.
• Preparing the cutting: Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone to encourage root development.
• Rooting the cutting: Plant the stem cutting in a well-draining potting mix or a mixture of peat moss and perlite. Keep the soil slightly moist and provide bottom heat or a humidity dome to create favorable rooting conditions.
• Maintaining the cutting: Place the poinsettia cutting in a warm, bright location with indirect light. Mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out.
• Root development: After a few weeks, check for root development by gently tugging on the cutting. If there is resistance, roots have likely formed.
• Transplanting: Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system, it can be transplanted into an individual pot filled with well-draining soil. Continue caring for the new poinsettia plant as you would with an established one.

By following these pruning and propagation techniques, you can ensure the health and vitality of your poinsettias while also expanding your collection or sharing the joy of these beautiful plants with others.

Poinsettia Pests and Diseases

Poinsettias, known for their vibrant red bracts, can sometimes be susceptible to pests and diseases.

It’s important to identify and address these issues to ensure the health and longevity of your poinsettia plants.

We will explore common pests and diseases that can affect poinsettias and provide strategies for their management.

Common Pests and Diseases

Poinsettias can encounter a range of pests and diseases.

Here are some of the most common ones:

• Bacterial Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by various bacterial species such as Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens, Pseudomonas cichorii, and Pseudomonas marginalis. It results in dark spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation if left untreated.
• Bacterial Stem Rot: Caused by bacteria like Erwinia carotovora and Erwinia chrysanthemi, bacterial stem rot can cause rotting and collapse of stems, leading to plant death. It’s important to promptly remove and destroy infected plants to prevent further spread.
• Crown Gall: This disease is caused by the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens, resulting in swollen, tumor-like growths on the stems and roots of poinsettias. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Fungal Diseases: Poinsettias can also be susceptible to fungal diseases like anthracnose (caused by Colletotrichum species) and powdery mildew (caused by Oidium species). These diseases can cause browning, spotting, and powdery growth on leaves and stems.
• Scale Insects: Scale insects are common pests that can affect poinsettias. These small insects with a protective waxy shell can cause yellowing, wilting, and distortion of plant tissues. They can be challenging to control due to their protective covering.
• Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny white-winged insects that feed on the undersides of leaves, sucking sap and causing yellowing and stunted growth. They can also produce honeydew, attracting ants and leading to the development of sooty mold.

By monitoring your poinsettias regularly and taking appropriate action when necessary, such as removing infected plants and using insecticidal soaps or appropriate fungicides, you can effectively manage pests and diseases.

Additionally, maintaining proper cultural practices, such as providing good airflow, avoiding overwatering, and ensuring adequate light, can help prevent the onset of these issues.

Buying Poinsettia Seeds

Gardening enthusiasts who are interested in buying poinsettia seeds have several options available to them.

Poinsettias, scientifically known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, are popular flowering plants often associated with the Christmas season.

These vibrant plants can be grown from seeds, and purchasing seeds is a great way to start your own poinsettia garden.

Here, we will provide advice on buying poinsettia seeds and where to find them online.

Advice On Buying Poinsettia Seeds

When it comes to buying poinsettia seeds, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, it’s important to ensure that you are purchasing seeds from a reputable source. This will help ensure the quality and viability of the seeds.

Additionally, it’s recommended to choose seeds that are fresh and have been properly stored to increase the chances of successful germination.

Lastly, consider the specific variety of poinsettia you are interested in and check if the seeds are available for that particular cultivar.

Here are some tips to guide you when purchasing poinsettia seeds:

• Look for reliable sellers or nurseries that specialize in selling seeds or poinsettia plants. Reputable online marketplaces like Amazon (amazon.com) and Etsy (etsy.com) often have sellers offering poinsettia seeds.
• Read product descriptions and customer reviews to get an idea of the quality and reliability of the seeds. This can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
• Consider factors such as seed quantity, price, and shipping options. Some sellers may offer bulk quantities, while others may provide smaller packs suitable for home gardeners.

Where to Buy Poinsettia Seeds Online

• Amazon.com: Amazon offers a wide range of poinsettia seeds from various sellers. You can find different cultivars, including red, pink, white, and even unusual colors like sky blue and violet. It’s advisable to read product descriptions and customer reviews before making a purchase. Visit Amazon.com for more information.
• Etsy: Etsy is another online platform where you can find poinsettia seeds. This marketplace connects buyers with independent sellers, often specializing in unique and handmade products. Take a look at the available listings and choose seeds that meet your preferences. Visit Etsy for more information.
• Nurserylive: Nurserylive is an online nursery that offers a variety of plants, including poinsettias. They provide poinsettia plants as well as seeds for those who want to grow their own. Check out their collection of poinsettia plants and seeds at Nurserylive.
• Local Nurseries and Garden Centers: Consider visiting local nurseries and garden centers in your area. They may have poinsettia seeds available, or they can guide you to reliable sources. This option allows you to see the seeds in person and seek expert advice from the staff.

Remember to check the availability and shipping options when purchasing online. Be mindful of any seasonal limitations or restrictions based on your location.

With these resources and tips, you’ll be well-equipped to start your poinsettia gardening journey from seeds.

Buying Poinsettia Plants

Poinsettias come in various colors, with the traditional red foliage being the most common.

However, there are over 150 different varieties available, including shades of pink, orange, cream, and white, which can add a touch of warmth and beauty to your home as early as October.

Advice On Buying Poinsettia Plants

When purchasing poinsettia plants, here are some essential tips to consider:

• Inspect the Foliage: Look for plants with dark and dense green foliage. Pay attention to the lower foliage’s green color, as it indicates the plant’s overall health.
• Check for Freshness: Examine the flowers to determine the plant’s display cycle. Fresh poinsettias will have vibrant and intact bracts, which are the modified leaves that surround the small yellow flowers.
• Consider Climate: Determine the appropriate climate for the poinsettia. If you live in a region with mild winters (growing zone 10-12 or higher), you can plant the poinsettia outside directly in the ground, where it will grow as a perennial. In colder climates, it is better to keep poinsettias as houseplants.

Tips for Caring for Poinsettia Plants:

• Light Requirements: Poinsettias thrive in bright but indirect sunlight. Place them near an eastern window or a few feet away from southern or western windows. Avoid exposing them to direct sun, as it can bleach the leaves.
• Watering: Water the poinsettia when the top 50% of the soil is dry. Be careful not to overwater or let the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage by allowing excess water to drain out of the pot.
• Temperature and Humidity: Poinsettias prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and 55-60°F (13-16°C) at night. Keep them away from drafty areas and maintain moderate to high humidity levels.
• Fertilizing: Feed your poinsettia plant monthly with a high potash liquid fertilizer, such as a tomato feed, after the Christmas season. This will help promote healthy growth and encourage blooming in the following year.

Where to Buy Poinsettia Plants Online

If you prefer to buy poinsettia plants online, there are several reputable sources to consider.

Here are some options:

• Garden Centers and Florists: Many local garden centers and florists offer poinsettia plants for sale online, allowing you to conveniently browse and choose from a variety of options.
• Online Plant Retailers: Explore online plant retailers that specialize in houseplants and seasonal decorations. They often have a wide selection of poinsettias available for delivery.
• Marketplaces and Auction Sites: Online marketplaces and auction sites can also be sources for purchasing poinsettia plants. However, it is important to research the sellers and read reviews to ensure reliability and quality.

Remember to consider the seller’s reputation, shipping options, and reviews from other customers when buying poinsettia plants online.

It is also advisable to check their return and refund policies in case of any issues with the plants upon delivery.

With proper care, your poinsettia plants can bring festive beauty to your home during the Christmas season and beyond.

Poinsettia Varieties

If you’re interested in cultivating poinsettias, there is a wide array of varieties available, each with its unique features and colors.

From the classic red and white varieties that symbolize the holiday season to more vibrant and modern options, such as pink, maroon, and orange, there is a poinsettia to suit every taste and preference.

Some varieties showcase marbled or speckled bracts, adding an artistic touch to your holiday displays, while others feature glitter-covered bracts for a touch of glamour.

Poinsettia Varieties to Grow

If you’re interested in cultivating poinsettias, there is a wide array of varieties available, each with its unique features and colors.

These varieties offer a range of colors, patterns, and leaf shapes, allowing you to select the perfect poinsettia to complement your holiday style and decorations.

Here are some popular poinsettia varieties to consider:

• Carousel Red: This poinsettia variety features vibrant red bracts and is known for its eye-catching beauty.
• Classic Red: A timeless favorite, the classic red poinsettia showcases rich, deep red bracts that symbolize the holiday season.
• Classic White: Offering a serene and elegant appearance, the classic white poinsettia exhibits pure white bracts, adding a touch of sophistication to any setting.
• Early Monet: This variety displays a stunning combination of pink and white bracts, resembling a beautiful watercolor painting.
• Enduring Marble: With marbled patterns on its bracts, the enduring marble poinsettia adds a unique and artistic flair to your holiday decor.
• Euphorbia Aries Red: A striking red poinsettia with a compact and bushy growth habit, Euphorbia Aries Red is an excellent choice for tabletop displays.
• Euphorbia Astro Red: Featuring bold red bracts, Euphorbia Astro Red poinsettia is a visually captivating variety that demands attention.
• Euphorbia Autumn Leaves: This poinsettia variety showcases bracts in warm autumnal shades, such as orange, yellow, and red, reminiscent of the changing fall foliage.
• Euphorbia Christmas Beauty Marble: With its marbled bracts in shades of pink and white, this variety adds a touch of elegance and charm to holiday arrangements.
• Euphorbia Christmas Glory Pink: This compact variety has petals in both light pink and white shades, creating a delightful and festive display.
• Euphorbia Envy: Stand out from the traditional colors with Euphorbia Envy, a unique variety that offers lime-green bracts for a fresh and modern look.
• Euphorbia Ferrara: Known for its deep burgundy bracts, Euphorbia Ferrara poinsettia lends a sense of richness and opulence to holiday displays.
• Euphorbia Hera Red: Hera Red poinsettia boasts intense red bracts and a robust growth habit, making it a captivating choice for larger arrangements.
• Euphorbia Leona Red: With its vibrant red bracts and compact form, Euphorbia Leona Red is an ideal variety for adding a pop of color to smaller spaces.
• Euphorbia Rinehart Code 257: This variety features a beautiful combination of red and cream-colored bracts, creating an enchanting and delicate appearance.
• Euphorbia Rinehart Code 619: With its deep pink bracts, Euphorbia Rinehart Code 619 brings a touch of romance and warmth to holiday settings.
• Euphorbia Rinehart Code Freedom Marble: Freedom Marble poinsettia displays marbled bracts in shades of red and cream, exuding a sense of elegance and grace.
• Ice Punch: This unique variety showcases bracts in shades of creamy white and pink, resembling delicate brushstrokes of color.
• Jingle Bell Rock: With its festive name, Jingle Bell Rock poinsettia features red bracts that capture the spirit of the holiday season with their vibrant hue.
• Jubilee Pink: Jubilee Pink poinsettia offers soft pink bracts, bringing a delicate and charming touch to your holiday decor.
• Luv U Pink: This poinsettia variety stands out with its lovely pink bracts, adding a gentle and romantic ambiance to your festive arrangements.
• Monet: Inspired by the famous artist, Monet poinsettia showcases bracts with beautiful pink and cream colors, resembling a masterpiece of impressionist art.
• Orange Spice: With its warm and inviting orange bracts, Orange Spice poinsettia infuses a cozy and autumnal feel into your holiday displays.
• Peterstar Marble: Peterstar Marble poinsettia displays marbled bracts in shades of pink and white, creating a captivating and visually intriguing effect.
• Polar Bear: Embodying the essence of winter, Polar Bear poinsettia features white bracts that evoke a sense of purity and tranquility.
• Polly’s Pink: Polly’s Pink poinsettia showcases charming pink bracts, adding a touch of playfulness and joy to your holiday arrangements.
• Prestige Maroon: With its deep maroon bracts, Prestige Maroon poinsettia delivers a sense of richness and elegance to holiday decor.
• Prestige Red: This variety exhibits classic red bracts, capturing the traditional essence of poinsettias and their association with the holiday season.
• Princettia Hot Pink: Princettia Hot Pink poinsettia features vibrant hot pink bracts that bring a bold and energetic vibe to your festive arrangements.
• Princettia Max White: Offering a pristine and sophisticated appearance, Princettia Max White poinsettia showcases pure white bracts that radiate elegance.
• Princettia Pink: Princettia Pink poinsettia displays charming pink bracts, infusing a delicate and feminine touch into your holiday decor.
• Red Glitter: This sparkling variety stands out with its red bracts covered in glitter, adding a touch of glamour and enchantment to your festive arrangements.
• Strawberries and Cream: With its delightful combination of pink and cream bracts, Strawberries and Cream poinsettia offers a sweet and whimsical appeal.
• Visions of Grandeur: True to its name, Visions of Grandeur poinsettia features large and impressive red bracts, making a bold statement in holiday displays.
• Winter Rose Dark Red: Winter Rose Dark Red poinsettia showcases deep red bracts in a unique rose-like shape, adding a touch of elegance and romance to your arrangements.

These descriptions provide a glimpse into the characteristics and visual appeal of each poinsettia variety, allowing you to choose the ones that best suit your preferences and holiday decor style.

Remember to provide your poinsettias with appropriate care, including adequate lighting, regular watering, and well-draining soil, to ensure their optimal growth and vibrant display throughout the season.

Please note that the list above includes just a selection of popular poinsettia varieties, and there are many more options available for you to explore and enjoy.

FAQs

Additional Resources

Here are some additional resources that provide valuable information on how to grow and care for poinsettia plants:

• Poinsettia care: how to keep a poinsettia alive – Gardeners’ World
• How to Grow and Care for Poinsettias (Essential Tips) – Petal Republic
• This Is How to Make Your Poinsettia Bloom Again Next Year – The Spruce
• How to Plant, Grow and Care For Poinsettia Plants – All About Gardening
• How to Grow Poinsettia (with Pictures) – wikiHow

We hope that this collection of resources provides you with the necessary information to successfully grow and care for poinsettias.