Monty Don explains 'only' temperature poinsettias will last for months in Gardening expert Monty Don has offered a slew of tips for keeping poinsettias perky beyond the festive season.
But in their home turf, it's a different story, as Monty highlighted: “However, in their native Mexico, poinsettias grow at the margin of the forest to a large 10ft high shrub.".
For optimal conditions, Monty recommends placing these plants where there's a constant, mild temperature, steering clear of chilly nights and overly dry or hot rooms.
He explained: "Hundreds of thousands of poinsettias are given as Christmas gifts and with a little care these can be made to last looking good for months."
Noting the transformation they undergo for domestic appeal, he added: "Modern poinsettias grown as houseplants are treated with a growth retardant to create the familiar short, bushy shape we all know and love.".
