Poinsettias are right up there with evergreens and mistletoe in the iconic holiday foliage category. And if you were gifted one or just love having them around for the season, it’s important to know a thing or two about taking proper care of poinsettias. That’s why when P. Allen Smith (aka The Plant Whisperer) shared his expert advice for keeping his poinsettias healthy, we knew we had to share the wealth with you.
Here are some of his top tips for poinsettia care:
- Water thoroughly when the surface soil is dry to the touch.
- Pour off any excess so the plants never sit in water.
- Fertilize the plants within several days of purchase. (He suggests an all-purpose liquid fertilizer because it is easy to use.)
- To prolong poinsettia color, keep the plants in rooms where the temperature is around 60 degrees at night and 72 degrees during the daytime.
- Place the plants away from drafts and sources of heat such as vents and fireplaces or direct sunlight.
- Poinsettias prefer high humidity. To increase humidity around the plant, place it in a shallow dish of gravel and add water.
Head to P. Allen Smith’s website to see the full list and much more, including recipes, garden guidance and design ideas. You can also follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for tons of inspiration.