Tips for Caring for Poinsettias

No flower says Christmas like the beautiful poinsettias. Native to Mexico and were first introduced to the United States by Joel Roberts Poinsett, a botanist and the first US Ambassador to Mexico.  . Poinsettias come in several colors, including traditional red, white, pink, burgundy, marbled, and speckled.

• Place in good light but avoid direct sunshine.
• Normal room temperature or slightly cooler (50-70 degrees) is best. Avoid cold drafts or excess heat from air vents, appliances or open doors and windows.
• Place plant away from traffic and out of the reach of children and pets, as they can be easily broken.
• Poinsettias are not poisonous. A study at Ohio State University showed that a 50 pound child would have to eat more than 500 leaves to have any harmful effect. Plus poinsettia leaves have an awful taste.Poinsettias do have a milky sap and some people with latex allergies could have a skin reaction after touching the leaves.
• Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry to the touch. Protect your furniture and floors by using a water proof saucer under your plant. Discard any excess water that accumulates in the saucer. These care instructions are important since improper watering or care can lead to leaf drop or root rot.
• No additional fertilizers should be necessary until all blooms are spent.
• With good care, a poinsettia will last 6-8 weeks in your home.