Poinsettias are a favourite choice for adding a burst of festive colour to homes during the Christmas period. However, many might not know that with proper care, these vibrant plants can continue to flourish for several months. While they can be somewhat challenging to maintain, there are specific techniques that can help extend their lifespan, allowing them to bring joy for numerous months. Gardening expert Monty Don has offered some advice on how to keep poinsettias looking appealing well past the holiday season.
He emphasised that poinsettias thrive in moist warmth, so it's essential to avoid placing them in hot and dry areas to ensure their continued health and aesthetic appeal, reports the Express. Monty further suggested: "They do not like cool nights, very hot dry rooms or big fluctuations in temperatures.".
"So keep them where there is a constant average temperature, avoiding draughts, cold windows or even very bright spots that can get very hot in the middle of the day." With this in mind, finding the ideal location in your home is crucial to prolonging the life of your poinsettias.
Keeping them healthy also involves making sure they are adequately watered, but it's important to wait for the right time to give them a thorough watering. This strategic approach to watering is crucial for the optimal care of poinsettias. Monty advised: "They like plenty of water but let the compost dry out before giving them a really good soak, standing the pot in a sink full of water. Leave it to stand for 10 minutes or so before letting the excess water drain from the pot.".
